Mental Health Associate 2 @ Cobb Hospital

Wellstar Health System•Cobb, WI

23h•Onsite

About The Position

At Wellstar, our mission is simple, yet powerful: to enhance the health and well-being of every person we serve. We are proud to have become a shining example of what's possible when the brightest professionals dedicate themselves to making a difference in the healthcare industry, and in people's lives. The Mental Health Associate 2 is a trained mental health professional who assumes an active role in the planning and provision of care for behavioral health patients in the emergency department, inpatient hospital units, and/or inpatient Behavioral Health Unit (BHU). For the BHU, the Mental Health Associate performs activities related to providing for the psychosocial as well as the physical needs of the patient under the direct supervision of the primary RN. The Mental Health Associate works as a vital member of the team and serves as a trusted connection for the patient. Wellstar is one of Georgia’s largest and most integrated healthcare systems, with over 24,000 team members providing personalized care. The company is committed to exceeding patient and team member expectations, delivering world-class healthcare, and operating with values of compassion, excellence, and honoring every voice. Wellstar is recognized for its high-quality care, inclusive culture, and has been featured on the FORTUNE “100 Best Companies to Work For” list and Seramount 100 Best Companies list.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution
Minimum 1 year of clinical experience
Workplace Violence Prvtn Trng or Crisis Prevention Reqd Trng (required upon hire)
Basic Life Support or BLS - Instructor (required upon hire)
Must be able to perform vital signs
Must be able to employ de-escalation techniques
Must communicate effectively
Must be able to function as a contributing member of a multi-disciplinary team
Must have a working knowledge of common psychosocial and physical needs of the behavioral health patients

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's Degree in mental health or another related field
Minimum 1 year Experience in emergency department or inpatient behavioral health

Responsibilities

Continuous observation of assigned “at risk” patients (including 1:1)
Establish therapeutic rapport and gain trust
Scan environment for safety and ensure the removal of sharps, cords, extra linen, food, utensils, etc.
Have expert knowledge of and ensure conformity to all safety policies/procedures (such as EC-73)
Document appropriately on observation record and medical records, noting any changes in behavior, mood, and activities
Monitor assigned Sitters in immediate area and advise as needed
Monitor and address patient needs
Take vital signs, perform venipunctures, and/or EKGs as needed
Note subtle changes in behavior, mood, and/or activity and alert the treatment team (RN, Charge RN, MD)
Conduct appropriate searches and check-ins upon admission
Maintain knowledge of and adhere to policies/procedures regarding patient safety (seclusions, restraints, and other physical techniques) using the least restrictive measures
Incorporate verbal de-escalation techniques and diversion activities to manage behavior and emotions
Educate on healthy communication and ADL skills both individually and in groups
Perform unit/safety rounds to ensure a calm, therapeutic environment
Facilitate milieu management by coordinating scheduled activities and meals
Keep current in professional education and training
Maintain de-escalation AVADE training and BLS certifications
Report any suggestions to improve patient care to RN, Charge RN, and/or MD
Attend monthly staff meetings, quality meetings, and other events as assigned
Complete all assigned training and competence verifications (skill days, GAMES, CBLs, etc.)