Behavioral Health Attendant

Brown Medicine•Taunton, MA

7d•$18 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) provides direct, non-clinical support to patients requiring direct or indirect observation and who may be experiencing mental health and behavioral challenges. BHAs collaborate with clinical staff to maintain a safe, therapeutic environment while upholding patient dignity and Brown University Health care values. The position works alongside nurses, social workers, therapists, and physicians to achieve treatment goals. The role has no supervisory responsibility.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Previous direct patient care and/or patient observation experience, or completion of one year of progressive education in a human services-related field such as psychology, nursing, social work, or health sciences.
For employees working in behavioral health and emergency departments, initial and annual certification in facility-approved de-escalation and restraint training, with no restrictions, BLS, and safe patient handling training per facility guidelines.
Ability to perform the physical aspects of the position, including lifting, turning, and moving or providing physical care to patients from sitting, standing, or kneeling positions.

Responsibilities

Receive a report on assigned patients before assuming responsibility for observation.
Conduct continuous or intermittent patient observation as assigned.
Promptly report changes in patient condition to nursing or clinical staff.
Monitor and document patient behavior, mood, and activity according to established protocols.
Maintain focus on the patient at all times and remain free from distractions.
Assist patients with daily activities, including hygiene, meals, and mobility, as needed and as directed by the Registered Nurse.
Engage assigned patients throughout the shift in a compassionate and respectful manner, providing interaction and recreational activities in accordance with training.
Use approved verbal intervention techniques to de-escalate situations and promote patient and staff safety.
Complete initial and annual recertification in facility-approved de-escalation and restraint training, BLS, and safe patient handling training as required by facility guidelines.
Attend staff development, supervision, and staff meetings as assigned.
Keep care areas free of hazards, follow safety guidelines, and help maintain clean and orderly patient care spaces.
Observe patient rights, maintain confidentiality of patient information, and protect patient privacy.
Follow hospital policies and procedures concerning patient and staff safety.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Role-model Brown University Health values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence.