UNIT SECRETARY/SITTER Job at Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg

Job Summary:

The Unit Secretary/Sitter functions directly under the supervision of the Nurse, Patient Care Coordinator, and is directly accountable to the Patient Care Manager. They are responsible for the secretarial aspects of patient care and the environmental management of the work unit, including monitoring equipment and supplies, making appointments, answering the phone, calling consults, relaying messages, maintaining the cleanliness of the nurses’ station, and performing other duties as assigned. The Unit Secretary/Sitter maintains the safety of patients who are confused, at risk for falling, or are suicidal and deemed a danger to self or others. This includes maintaining safety for patients in restraints. They maintain a safe, clean environment for the patient area and may participate in diversion activities such as reading, playing games/cards, or watching TV. They effectively interact with patients, their significant others, and the nursing staff, communicating observations, conditions, problems, safety issues, and concerns directly with the nursing staff. They employ organizational strategies that contribute to the organization’s goals and adhere to established Compliance Program and Standards of Conduct.

Performance Expectations:

1. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide reliable assistance to the team, including nurses, managers, and physicians. Demonstrates good customer service skills when interacting with patients, visitors, and co-workers. Helps ensure the unit runs efficiently.
2. Demonstrates technical aptitude for performing secretarial and general unit duties.
3. Demonstrates technical aptitude for operating telephone, fax, scanner, label printer, and computer.
4. Communicates effectively with patients, families, visitors, and the healthcare team.
5. Maintains competencies with restraints and required education to serve as a sitter.
6. Performs skills required for each unit’s population, including sitting with patients, restraint procedures, 1:1 suicide precautions, and safety measures to prevent injury or falls.
7. Maintains a safe and clean work environment, monitors supplies, replenishes inventory, and performs tasks in a timely manner.
8. Practices the organization’s We CARE philosophy in all interactions.
9. Promotes a culture of caring through compassionate care, teamwork, and courtesy.
10. Uses supplies efficiently and minimizes incremental overtime to demonstrate financial responsibility.
11. Performs any other duties assigned.

Qualifications:

Education/Skills: High School Diploma/GED required.

Work Experience: Computer experience preferred but not required. Basic knowledge of patient care is preferred.

Certification/Licensure: Due upon hire:

• None

Additional Certification/Licensure (obtained within required timeframe):

• Basic Life Support

Within 30 days of employment.

Mental Demands:

Ability to work as part of a team, cooperate with others, follow directions precisely, demonstrate initiative, and function under stress. Must handle multiple tasks efficiently, prioritize, and communicate professionally at all times.