Mental Health Associate, PTRC, 40 Hours, Evenings

UMass Memorial Health•Worcester, MA

3d•$21 - $29•Onsite

About The Position

This position functions as a Mental Health Associate (MHA) on an inpatient and/or outpatient mental health unit, working in collaboration with the mental health team. The role involves providing direct patient care, including treatment planning, implementation, documentation, and maintaining milieu safety through various activities such as group sessions. The associate also performs unit secretary duties. UMass Memorial Health emphasizes that everyone is a caregiver, contributing to exceptional patient care, academic excellence, and leading-edge research within the health system. The organization is committed to a relentless pursuit of healing and values the unique contributions of its over 20,000 employees.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Current Basic Life Support or Heart Saver certification required within one month as a condition of employment.
One year of relevant patient support experience.
Ability to read, write, and communicate in English in a clear and concise manner.
Effective interpersonal skills for respectful, culturally and age-appropriate communication with patients, staff, visitors, and others.
Demonstrated effective problem-solving abilities for routine situations.
Ability to function dually as Unit Secretary and MHA.

Nice To Haves

Associates Degree
Medical terminology and computer skills

Responsibilities

Serves as a member of the Mental Health Team, interacting with patients, families, nurses, physicians, and other colleagues.
Provides clear and timely communication to the Registered Nurse (R.N.) regarding patient observations and changes.
Records behavioral data on appropriate data sheets.
Maintains patient safety through safety checks, environmental rounds, fall prevention strategies, de-escalation techniques, and adherence to restraint policies.
Participates in the development and maintenance of a safe and therapeutic environment.
Leads or co-leads group activities such as goal setting, dual diagnosis groups, and recreational activities.
Assists in medical emergencies as directed by the R.N.
Utilizes proper safety techniques and body mechanics.
Obtains and records vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, pulse oximetry).
Measures and records patients’ height and weight as assigned by the R.N.
Performs tests and procedures such as EKGs, phlebotomy, and intake/output as assigned by the R.N.
Documents daily progress notes and group notes according to policy.
Assists the R.N. in other medical and psychiatric interventions as directed.
Provides personal care to optimize patient's independent functioning in daily routines.
Utilizes interventions to de-escalate patients and participates in restraints as directed and in accordance with training.
Performs safety checks on patients and the unit as directed and documents findings.
Reviews and follows treatment plans with patients and provides feedback to the clinical team.
Implements special treatment strategies as indicated in the treatment plan.
Maintains logs, organizes patient care charts, and maintains medical records as instructed.
Attends staff meetings and in-service programs.
Stays current with hospital and unit changes through various communication channels.
Complies with established departmental policies, procedures, and objectives.
Demonstrates use of Quality Improvement in daily operations.
Complies with all health and safety regulations and requirements.
Respects diverse views and approaches, demonstrates Standards of Respect, and contributes to a professional environment.
Maintains regular, reliable, and predictable attendance.
Performs other similar and related duties as required or directed.