These roles focus on the well-being and security of individuals within healthcare settings. Individuals in these positions monitor patients at risk of falls, self-harm, or interfering with medical devices. For instance, an attendant might continuously observe a patient recovering from surgery who is confused and attempting to remove their intravenous line.
The presence of these personnel is crucial in preventing adverse events and promoting a safer environment for vulnerable individuals. Historically, the responsibilities associated with this role were often distributed among nursing staff, potentially diverting their attention from other essential clinical tasks. The creation of dedicated roles addresses this issue, improving overall patient care and resource allocation.