Psychiatric Nursing Assistant I - Adult Psychiatry Unit (7RC) - 50%

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Iowa Health Care Department of Nursing is seeking a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant to perform specific tasks in support of patient care under the direct supervision of Registered Nurses. The role is on 7RC, a 25-bed adult psychiatry unit that uses an evidence-based, patient-centered, interdisciplinary approach. The care team works collaboratively with patients and families and includes physicians, psychologists, advanced practice providers, master-level therapists, nurses, social workers, dieticians, occupational therapists, and recreational therapists. The unit uses therapeutic modalities including dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed care. The position requires providing direct patient care and assistance, supporting patient safety and security, observing and documenting patient behavior, assisting with activities, and communicating concerns to Registered Nurses. The Psychiatric Nursing Assistant also helps maintain patient rooms and unit supplies, transports patients and items, and performs basic CPR as required. The role calls for strong communication, attention to detail, adaptability in an active environment, and the ability to respond quickly to emergencies and changing priorities.

Requirements

Ability to read, write, and follow instructions.
Strong communication skills and the ability to work well with all levels and types of people.
Ability to work amid conflicting demands, shifting priorities, and 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.
Tolerance for an active work environment with potential for negative behavior.

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.
Take patients’ temperature, pulse, and blood pressure.
Clean equipment, patient bedside areas, and the nursing unit.
Set up 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.