CNA/Special Attendant

State of Indiana•Logansport, IN

About The Position

The CNA/Special Attendant works at Logansport State Hospital, a state-operated inpatient psychiatric hospital for adults with mental illness. Using an interdisciplinary approach and evidence-based programming, the hospital promotes recovery and return to the community. The role supports residents’ safety, treatment, rehabilitation, and development of independent living skills. It includes monitoring and documenting residents’ condition and behavior, assisting with treatment plans and daily activities, applying approved de-escalation and behavior-management techniques, and helping deliver occupational and recreational therapy programs. Duties also include security and unit operations, routine clerical work, assisting with medication under a Registered Nurse’s direction, and providing basic first aid. Workday attendance at assigned worksites is an essential function. The position traditionally starts at $21.13 per hour; salary may be commensurate with education and job experience. The role may be used in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Requirements

High School Diploma or HSE diploma, or related certifications and coursework that may be considered in place of education or experience.
At least 1 year of experience applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role.
Certified in professional rescuer CPR/AED or willing to become certified.
Knowledge of psychiatric nursing care practices, including medication administration.
Ability to write reports and accurately maintain records and charts.
Ability to respond effectively in emergencies.
Knowledge of behavior modification, self-defense, and restraint techniques, and ability to apply them without injuring residents.
Knowledge of resident behavior and ability to anticipate and respond to behavioral changes.
Working knowledge of institution and unit procedures.
Ability to perform housekeeping duties and assist residents with housekeeping and daily living activities.
Knowledge of principles and methods for therapeutic rehabilitation programs and the needs of mentally ill client groups.
Knowledge of teaching techniques, including motivation, progress assessment, charting, and behavior modification, and ability to apply them.
Ability to operate routine medical equipment.
Ability to complete required documentation accurately and on time.
Ability to legally operate a motor vehicle in Indiana.
Ability to maintain and distribute client trust accounts.
Ability to recognize behaviors in clients or others and take appropriate action.
Working knowledge of existing mental health provider systems.
Ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Responsibilities

Ensure residents’ security and maintain order, including restraining unruly or dangerous residents when necessary.
Escort residents to activities, therapy, and off-grounds medical, dental, or legal appointments while maintaining security.
Assist with implementing residents’ treatment plans and monitor residents during meals, classroom time, bathroom time, and in general areas.
Observe, report, and record residents’ condition and behavior.
Use therapeutic interventions, including de-escalation, redirection, and approved behavior-prevention and management techniques.
Assist residents with caring for their living areas, clothing, and supplies.
Secure doors, search visitors, operate the radio system, issue keys, and escort visitors within the unit.
Search patients’ rooms for contraband and help ensure patient safety.
Teach, counsel, and motivate residents in daily living skills as prescribed in individual treatment plans.
Assess clients’ training needs and advise them about appropriate social behavior and transitional-living objectives.
Provide a safe learning environment that promotes residents’ self-esteem and self-sufficiency.
Coordinate client activities under professional direction and adapt prescribed treatment plans to individual needs.
Develop community living skills through activities such as grocery shopping, using public transportation, and locating community providers.
Maintain clients’ money and distribute it as appropriate to treatment programs, including budgeting instruction.
Assist with occupational and recreational therapy programs to support independent living.
Perform routine clerical work, including scheduling, ordering supplies, filing progress notes, and answering unit telephones.
Obtain medications from the pharmacy and administer and chart them under a Registered Nurse’s direction.
Assist in managing aggressive behavior.
Provide basic first aid, including antiseptic and bandage application, CPR, or the Heimlich maneuver as needed.
Attend work at assigned worksite(s).

Benefits

Three medical plan options, including prescription coverage, plus vision and dental plans.
Wellness Rewards Program with gift card rewards for completed wellness activities.
Health savings account with a bi-weekly state contribution.
Deferred compensation 457B account with employer match.
Two fully funded pension plan options.
Leave policies including paid New Parent Leave, Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers, community service leave, and combined vacation, personal, and sick leave.
12 paid holidays, or 14 in election years.
Education Reimbursement Program.
Group life insurance.
Referral Bonus program.
Employee assistance program with covered behavioral health visits.
Eligibility as a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Free parking for most positions.
Free LinkedIn Learning access.