Behavioral Health Technician Nights

Phoebe Putney Health System•Albany, GA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Provides direct patient care as assigned by the Registered Nurse. Provides clerical support, assists with patient data collection, and performs medical procedures under an RN’s direction. Uses verbal and non-verbal communication skills to provide targeted therapeutic interventions with patients. The role includes assisting with patients’ personal care, daily activities, meals, mobility, and safety; monitoring and documenting patient status; supporting admissions, discharges, and transfers; and facilitating patient groups. The technician documents patient interactions and other required information accurately and promptly, follows hospital and departmental policies, maintains relevant knowledge and competencies, attends required meetings and training, and wears protective clothing and equipment as appropriate.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least one of the following: two years of coursework in psychology, sociology, or another mental-health-related field; one year of nursing coursework with a strong interest in behavioral health; one year of experience in a behavioral health setting, preferably inpatient; or one year of experience in corrections, military, security, or law enforcement, which may include police or security officer experience.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Complete Phoebe’s Crisis Response Training within two months of hire.

Nice To Haves

Two to three years of behavioral health experience.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification.
Mental Health Technician certification.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification.
Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST).

Responsibilities

Provide patient care and address patient questions and concerns, or alert a qualified nurse.
Assist with morning and evening personal care as needed, including showering, shampooing, oral care, shaving, and nail care.
Take and record vital signs; assist patients with bedpans, urinals, commodes, and bathroom use; measure and record intake and output.
Collect urine, stool, and blood specimens and deliver or send them to the laboratory.
Ambulate, exercise, and reposition patients; assist patients in and out of chairs and wheelchairs; transport patients to other areas.
Perform simple ordered treatments and tests, including applying or changing unsterile pads and dressings, hot or cold compresses and packs, and ointments; keep patients clean, dry, and comfortable; and check safety equipment regularly.
Check for contraband, monitor psychiatric safety needs, and perform environmental safety rounds.
Keep patient rooms neat, clean, and orderly; change beds and linens as needed; replenish patient supplies; perform emergency housekeeping; clean designated unit areas; and dispose of soiled linens and waste.
Run errands for patients and staff; store supplies and linens and check for defects and expiration dates.
Prepare patients for meals, assist with meals and menu selection, monitor patients during meals, document percentages consumed, and pass other nourishment during the shift.
Perform directed admission and discharge duties, including searches of patients and belongings, inventory and storage of belongings, and escorting patients during discharge, transfer, or travel to procedures.
Perform one-to-one monitoring when necessary.
Conduct groups such as goals groups, wrap-up groups, and other groups.
Observe patients’ physical appearance, attitude, responses to medications and treatments, appetite, and other relevant status; record observations and alert the nurse to significant findings.
Assist the nurse in preparing a body after death.
Submit required information and data promptly and document patient interactions clearly and accurately, using correct terminology and required style and format for the intended readers.
Follow hospital and departmental attendance and punctuality guidelines, policies, and procedures; perform other required duties.
Carry out responsibilities in alignment with the organization’s core values, mission, and vision.
Maintain current knowledge in areas of responsibility through self-education and ongoing educational programs.
Attend staff meetings, complete mandatory in-services and requirements, and finish competency evaluations on time.
Demonstrate competency in providing care based on patients’ age, sex, weight, and demonstrated needs.
For non-clinical areas, attend training and demonstrate age-specific customer service skills.
Wear protective clothing and equipment as appropriate.