Patient Observation Specialist at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System – Boone, North Carolina

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Full-Time | Nights 6:45pm to 7:00am

As a Patient Observation Specialist at UNC Health Appalachian, you play a vital role in maintaining patient safety and supporting compassionate, patient-centered care. Working closely with nursing and interdisciplinary teams, you help create a secure and supportive environment for patients while gaining valuable healthcare experience in a collaborative setting.

• Compensation: $16.00 per hour, based on experience, education, and internal equity

• Differentials: Eligible for shift differentials when applicable

• Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; paid parental leave; wellness incentives; and employee discounts

• Provide continuous visual and auditory observation of assigned patients to ensure safety and prevent falls, injuries, or adverse events

• Monitor and document patient behavior and condition, reporting changes promptly to nursing staff

• Assist with basic patient needs including positioning, feeding, and hygiene under nursing direction

• Maintain a clean and safe environment in accordance with infection control policies

• Communicate compassionately and effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members

• Support implementation of individualized patient care plans

• Assist with patient transport within the hospital as needed

• Adhere to all hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory standards

• Participate in ongoing education and professional development

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred (required for Level 3 and 4)

• Previous healthcare or patient observation experience preferred

• Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at hire

• CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) required within one (1) year of hire

• Strong observational, communication, and interpersonal skills

• Ability to remain calm and focused in high-stress situations

• Compassionate, patient-centered approach to care

• Basic knowledge of medical terminology and patient care procedures preferred

• Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems is a plus

• Prolonged standing, walking, and sitting

• Ability to lift, move, and assist patients as needed

• Frequent manual dexterity and close observation

• Direct patient contact with exposure to bodily fluids

• Exposure to infectious diseases and hazardous materials

• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Flexible scheduling, including nights, weekends, and holidays

• Career Growth: Entry point into healthcare with advancement opportunities through UNC Health Appalachian’s Career Pathways Program

• Impactful Work: Directly contribute to patient safety and positive outcomes across three community hospitals and specialty centers

• Community & Lifestyle: Boone offers outdoor adventure, culture, and small-town charm in the Blue Ridge Mountains

• Inclusive Culture: We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels respected and supported

About UNC Health Appalachian
It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.”

About UNC Health
UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.