The following Q&A with Latisha Johnson sheds light on the transformative potential of the virtual patient sitter model. The service provides a powerful system for remote monitoring that not only alleviates challenges for bedside staff but also enhances patient safety.
Meet Latisha Johnson, a critical care registered nurse who spent 16 years at the bedside in medical and cardiovascular intensive care unit (ICUs). Eight years ago, she made a remarkable shift to virtual nursing, and training and mentoring virtual patient sitters at Hicuity Health. Her journey highlights a deep commitment to improving healthcare accessibility. Today, Latisha’s work and mentorship is part of a program that helps address critical gaps in patient care and facility staffing across the country, making a tangible difference for both patients and hospital care teams.
Latisha Johnson, RN
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?
I wasn’t initially interested in nursing. I grew up in a family full of healthcare workers—many were nurses—and I was determined to take a different path. But then I started working as an ICU secretary and saw firsthand how much patients needed compassionate, knowledgeable care.
Growing up in a small town, I had seen the challenges of accessing quality healthcare. Watching members of my family and community struggle motivated me to step in and do my part. I decided that becoming a nurse would allow me to make a direct impact on patient care and support those who face obstacles in getting the healthcare they need.
How did your journey with Hicuity Health begin?
It was an intensivist I met during my time at the bedside who introduced me to Hicuity Health. I was already passionate about improving healthcare access, and virtual nursing seemed like an incredible way to expand that mission. When I looked into Hicuity Health, I realized the company’s virtual model and dedication to patient-centered care aligned perfectly with my goals.
I applied, got hired, and have been part of the team ever since. I also started training and coaching Hicuity Health’s virtual sitters, which has given me another way to make a difference. I’m supporting my Hicuity Health virtual sitter teammates on their own healthcare career journeys while making sure patients are always monitored by competent, attentive professionals.
How would you describe the onboarding experience specific to virtual patient sitters?
Before our virtual sitters can start working independently, we need to feel confident that they are diligent and trained to respond to emergencies and be a valuable partner for bedside teams. After completing their training for CPI Verbal Intervention™ and Patient Safety Attendant competency, the sitters are supervised and receive additional mentoring from coaches like me throughout their tenure with Hicuity Health.
I make sure they’re staying vigilant, using the technology correctly, and responding to situations according to protocol. I also pay attention to their attitude and approach to the work, since it’s important that sitters are motivated to promote safety and take their responsibilities seriously.
How does the virtual patient sitter model support bedside teams?
In a busy facility setting where nurses are constantly juggling priorities, virtual sitters keep an eye on patients who are at risk for events like falls, elopements, and other adverse events. Sitters are there as an extra set of eyes and ears, working alongside the bedside care team. It’s truly all about collaboration.
For example, if a sitter notices that a bedridden patient with dementia is struggling to get up on their own, they can intervene and try to redirect the patient. They can also alert the nurses at the bedside—whatever it takes to prevent a fall or sentinel event.
This type of partnership offers a cost-effective way to provide 24/7 observation for every patient who needs it, helping bedside staff deliver timely, effective care.
Do you have any memorable experiences that highlight the impact of virtual patient monitoring?
One moment that stands out was during a routine check. I was participating in a specific engagement where the hospital wanted nurses providing constant monitoring, and a patient pulled out their subclavian line. There was blood everywhere, so I quickly alerted the bedside nurse. The bedside nurse was overwhelmed with other tasks, and was so grateful I had spotted it when I did because it allowed her to intervene before the situation became life-threatening. We were able to control the bleeding and avoid further complications.
The sincere gratitude felt and expressed by the patient, their family, and the bedside nurse left a lasting impression that remains with me today. Moments like this remind me how valuable virtual patient sitting can be, especially when it comes to preventing emergencies and supporting bedside teams
What sets Hicuity Health’s approach apart in the virtual acute care field?
Hicuity Health is all about teamwork. We prioritize advanced monitoring systems and ensure consistent communication with bedside staff.
During the COVID-19 pandemic and through to today, having virtual nurses and patient sitters makes a huge difference. We are able to support bedside teams overwhelmed by patient loads and even provide emotional support during challenging times. We are in it together, sharing the weight of caring for so many patients and making sure they have the care they need.
What else would you like readers to know about virtual patient sitters at Hicuity Health?
Virtual sitting isn’t just about remote work. It’s about creating a supportive care environment that benefits patients, bedside nurses, and the entire healthcare system.
