Mental Health Worker

Northwell Health

About The Position

Under the direction and supervision of a Registered Nurse, this role assists patients with Activities of Daily Living (ADL's) and behavioral coping skills, provides clinical intervention, and assists in maintaining a safe and clean environment. The position involves direct patient care, group therapy co-leading, patient education, and maintaining the physical environment of the unit.

Requirements

Minimum of two (2) years of college, required.
Minimum of six (6) years related experience, required.
Must be able to demonstrate CPR technique within orientation period.
Ability to lift, turn, position, and restrain patients, as required.
Ability to communicate effectively, required.

Nice To Haves

Concentration in pre-health science or psychology-related courses, preferred.
Previous experience with patient intervention in psychiatric setting, preferred.

Responsibilities

Initiates and encourages interactions with patients through conversation, activities, and other means.
Encourages a therapeutic relationship with patients.
Orients patient to unit and hospital.
Provides factual information regarding treatment program.
Assists and guides patients carrying-out personal hygiene and housekeeping activities.
Assists and oversees patients at meal times.
Escorts patients to appointments and scheduled activities off unit - within and outside hospital.
Assists during admissions, discharges and/or transfers of patients.
Assists RN in carrying out treatment procedures including, but not limited to restraining patient, vital signs and other directed tasks.
Responds to medical and psychiatric emergencies with direction from RN.
Administers Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), when necessary.
Observes patient, as directed.
Assumes responsibility for whereabouts and safety of patients on and off the unit and/or grounds, as directed.
Co-leads group therapy and leads patient education and activity groups, as required.
Reports observations of patient behavior to RN and other team members.
Maintains observation flow sheets for patients requiring various levels of supervision, i.e. constant observation, routine rounds, every fifteen minute checks.
Participates in nursing staff and team meetings by sharing observations and information.
Receives and/or transmits telephone messages concerning patient care in absence of Unit Receptionist.
Reports observations of patients' interactions with visitors.
Reports potential hazards to RN and taking necessary measures such as mopping wet areas, removing hazardous material or other remedial action in the event of an emergency.
Transports supplies such as laboratory specimens, food trays, drug baskets and other items to and from unit, as required.
Collects soiled linen and distributing fresh linen to patients unable to do so themselves.
Maintains general sanitary conditions on unit including washing patient's refrigerator and stove when necessary.
Accesses medication delivery and/or medication areas, as authorized, in the performance of required duties, as needed.