Emergency Department- Behavioral Health Technician- 40hr

Connecticut Children's•Hartford, CT

About The Position

The Behavioral Health Technician promotes the safety, health, and comfort of patients, families, and staff in Zone C of the Emergency Department while supporting care for behavioral health and psychiatric patients. The primary assignment is Zone C. The technician works with registered nurses and the broader care team to support patient intake, observation, safety, therapeutic care, and departmental operations. When there are no patients in Zone C, the technician may support the main Emergency Department triage function as assigned by the charge nurse.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least one year of experience in a pediatric emergency department or psychiatric/behavioral health unit.
BLS CPR for Healthcare Provider certification required upon hire and maintained current at all times.
Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (CPI) certification required within three months of hire and maintained current at all times.

Responsibilities

Assist the Registered Nurse in collecting patient data during intake and admission for behavioral health and psychiatric patients.
Inventory patients’ personal items, appropriately wand patients and belongings upon arrival, participate in supervised clothing changes, secure belongings according to department standards, and return them at the end of the visit.
Communicate observations about the environment and indicators that a patient may be escalating or at increased risk of agitation, aggression, or harm to self.
Help maintain a safe, therapeutic environment and appropriate boundaries for patients, families, and staff.
Support department and hospital visitation guidelines and policies.
Serve as an intermittent or roving patient care partner 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, as assigned by the charge nurse.
Help apply and remove physical restraints when directed by the attending medical provider or primary nurse.
Contribute to the safe level of patient observation and to individualized care plans as a member of the care team; follow plans vetted by licensed staff and reinforce team-established limits and boundaries.
Use de-escalation techniques 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 patients and intervene early in escalating situations.
Keep the department clear of 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.
Support departmental and hospital quality and safety initiatives and goals.
Apply knowledge of age-related differences and needs from neonates through adolescents, and demonstrate cultural sensitivity in interactions with patients and families.
Value cultural diversity and individual differences in the workforce.
Support the organization’s mission, values, and goals through behavior consistent with Connecticut Children’s standards.
Perform other related responsibilities as assigned.