Behavioral Health Technician-Float Pool-24hr

Connecticut Children's•Hartford, CT

10h•Onsite

About The Position

The Central Staffing Office Behavioral Health Technician promotes the safety, health, and comfort of patients, families, and staff across Med/Surg, PICU, and NICU in connection with behavioral health and psychiatry patient care. The role also supports Zone C (Emergency Department) and the Integrated Care Unit as needed. The technician works with registered nurses and the wider care team to support patient assessment and care, maintain a safe therapeutic environment, and carry out assigned clinical and operational duties.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least one year of experience with pediatric psychiatric or behavioral health patients in a school, hospital, or home environment.
BLS CPR for Healthcare Provider certification, required upon hire and maintained at all times.
Marcus Crisis Prevention Program training certification, required within one month of hire and maintained thereafter.

Responsibilities

Assist the Registered Nurse in collecting patient data during intake or admission for behavioral health and psychiatric patients.
Inventory patients’ personal items, conduct appropriate patient and belongings wanding, participate in supervised clothing changes, secure belongings according to department standards, and return them when the visit is complete.
Communicate observations about the environment and patient indicators of escalation or increased risk of agitation, aggression, or harm to self.
Maintain a safe, therapeutic environment and appropriate boundaries for patients, families, and staff.
Support visitation guidelines and hospital policies.
Perform intermittent or roving patient care partner duties when assigned by the primary RN and shift charge RN.
Assist patients with activities of daily living, including bathing, dietary needs, and escorting patients off the unit.
Complete patient documentation as appropriate.
Obtain vital signs and weights as delegated by the Registered Nurse; support main Emergency Department triage when there are no patients in Zone C and the charge nurse assigns this duty.
Assist with applying and removing physical restraints when directed by the attending medical provider or primary nurse.
Collaborate with the care team to contribute to safe observation levels and to the development and implementation of individualized care plans vetted by the licensed team; reinforce team-established limits and boundaries.
Use de-escalation techniques effectively and assist with procedural holds as directed by an MD, provider, or RN.
Obtain and test specimens, including blood glucose, urine, and pharyngeal swabs, and perform one- and two-step point-of-care tests.
Perform EKGs.
Round continuously to observe for and intervene early in escalating situations.
Keep the department free of unnecessary hallway clutter and obstructions and maintain the environment of care.
Complete daily safety checks and restocking of equipment, restraints, and supplies.
Participate in post-restraint huddles.
Establish effective relationships with patients, families, staff, and external customers or consultants.
Remain accountable for departmental and hospital quality and safety initiatives and goals.
Apply knowledge of age-related differences and needs for populations from neonates through adolescents, and demonstrate cultural sensitivity in interactions with patients and families.
Value cultural diversity and individual differences in the workforce, and demonstrate support for the organization’s mission, values, and goals through behavior consistent with Connecticut Children’s standards.
Perform other related responsibilities as assigned.