Mental Health Specialist 2

University of Washington • Seattle, WA

6d

About The Position

Harborview Medical Center’s 5MB Psych ICU Department has an opportunity for a Mental Health Specialist 2. The position responds to and participates in Code Gray alerts and other crisis situations, helps secure patients in the unit, and supports staff in responding safely to emergencies under the direction of the charge nurse. The specialist participates in patient assessment and discharge planning, observes and reports changes in patient behavior, and assists patients with court-related treatment processes and paperwork. The role also includes examining patient belongings and visitors for hazardous items and performing basic physical care delegated by registered nurses.

This is a temporary, per-diem position on an alternate work shift. Harborview Medical Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility owned by King County and operated by UW Medicine, providing specialized care to patients across the Pacific Northwest, including vulnerable residents of King County.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and one year of experience as a Mental Health Specialist I or equivalent; experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
• Valid and active Nursing Assistant Certification (NAC) or Nursing Assistant Registration (NAR) with the state of Washington.
• Equivalent education or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except where legal requirements, such as licensure, certification, or registration, apply.

Responsibilities

• Respond to and participate in Code Gray alerts and other crisis situations; help secure patients in the unit and assist staff in responding safely to emergencies while following the charge nurse’s directives.
• Participate in crisis intervention and crisis prevention training.
• Participate in the team’s assessment of patients and contribute to patient discharge plans.
• Examine new patient belongings and remove hazardous objects, drugs, and other items that may endanger patient health.
• Check visitors and remove hazardous items that could put patients or staff at risk.
• Participate in suicide assessments.
• Alert nurses to changes in patient behavior or demeanor and observe and report signs of patient distress.
• Deliver notices to patients regarding court procedures and treatment, and assist patients with court paperwork.
• Assist patients in obtaining treatment through court-mandated processes, including delivering 24-hour treatment notices.
• Perform basic physical care and other tasks delegated by registered nurses.

Benefits

• Benefits information is provided for temporary, per-diem, and less-than-half-time positions at the University of Washington benefits website.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level