Behavioral Health Attendant

Brown Medicine•Cranston, RI

7d•$21 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general direction of a 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 role includes observing and engaging with assigned patients, supporting daily activities as directed, reporting changes to clinical staff, documenting patient behavior, and using approved verbal de-escalation techniques. The attendant also helps maintain safe, clean, and orderly patient-care areas and follows hospital policies regarding safety, privacy, confidentiality, and patient rights. The position works alongside nurses, social workers, therapists, and physicians to support treatment goals.

Requirements

High school graduation 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, obtain initial certification and annual recertification in the system- or facility-approved de-escalation and restraint course with no restrictions.
BLS training/certification and training in safe patient handling according to facility guidelines.
Ability to perform physical aspects of the position, which may include lifting, turning, and moving or physically caring for patients from sitting, standing, or kneeling positions.

Responsibilities

Receive a report on assigned patients before assuming responsibility for observations.
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 in accordance with established protocols.
Maintain focus on patients at all times and remain free from distractions.
Assist patients with hygiene, meals, mobility, and other daily activities as needed and as directed by the Registered Nurse.
Engage assigned patients throughout the shift in a compassionate and respectful manner, including providing interaction and recreational activities in accordance with training.
Use approved verbal intervention techniques to de-escalate situations and promote patient and staff safety.
Obtain initial certification and annual recertification in facility-approved de-escalation and restraint training, BLS, and safe patient handling training as applicable to facility guidelines.
Attend staff development, supervision, and staff meetings as assigned.
Keep care areas free of hazards and compliant with safety guidelines, and help maintain clean and orderly patient-care spaces.
Observe patient rights and maintain confidentiality and patient privacy.
Follow hospital policies and procedures for patient and staff safety.
Perform other duties as assigned.