Psychiatric Nursing Assistant I - Neuropsychiatric Unit (2JPW) - 50%

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Iowa Health Care Department of Nursing is seeking a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant to perform specific tasks that support patient care under the direct supervision of Registered Nurses. The role is based on the Adult Psychiatry Unit (2JPW), a 22-bed unit caring for adults with general psychiatric conditions, particularly thought disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychoses. The unit also provides specialized services for patients with intellectual disabilities and co-occurring mental illness with challenging behaviors. The position is scheduled for 20 hours per week, with day and evening hours and alternating weekends and holidays. It is located at John Pappajohn Pavilion in Iowa City, Iowa.

Requirements

Ability to read, write, and follow instructions.
Ability to work amid conflicting demands or priorities and rushed or urgent timelines.
Ability to manage multiple assignments and respond quickly to emergencies.
Ability to maintain attention to detail over extended periods and remain aware of changing situations.
Strong communication skills and tolerance for an active work environment with potential for negative behavior.
Ability to work well with people at all levels and of all types.
Successful candidates must self-disclose conviction history and undergo a criminal background check and credential and education verification.
The position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.
A resume must be attached as part of the application process.

Nice To Haves

Experience defusing volatile situations.
Certified Nursing Assistant credential.
Strong written communication skills and experience providing customer service relations.
Previous patient care experience in a mental health setting is highly desired.

Responsibilities

Establish therapeutic relationships with patients, families, and the multidisciplinary team.
Participate in planning patient care appropriate to the patient’s condition and age.
Document patient behavior factually and legibly, and identify information to report to the Registered Nurse.
Maintain patient safety and security by providing physical care and assistance and following Standard Precautions.
Supervise patients during activities.
Identify potential crisis situations, report them to the Registered Nurse, and intervene.
Assist patients with personal hygiene, including bathing, toileting, feeding, dressing, grooming, and oral care.
Measure temperature, pulse, and blood pressure.
Clean equipment, patient bedside areas, and the nursing unit.
Prepare rooms for patient admission.
Transport patients by bed, cart, or wheelchair.
Transport equipment, specimens, and supplies.
Stock and supply patient rooms and the nursing unit.
Perform basic CPR as required.
Maintain patient confidentiality.