Psychiatric Nursing Asst II - Adult Psychiatry Unit (7RC)

University of Iowa•Iowa City, IA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Iowa Health Care is seeking a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant II to perform specific tasks that support the Nursing team in providing patient care under the direct supervision of Registered Nurses. The position is on 7RC, a 25-bed adult psychiatry unit using an evidence-based, patient-centered, interdisciplinary approach. Team members collaborate with patients and families, and therapeutic modalities include dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed care. The unit will feature a behavioral health consultant position intended to improve patient and team outcomes. This role involves supporting patients’ care, safety, and daily needs; observing and documenting patient behavior; helping with activities; identifying and responding to potential crises; and assisting with unit operations. The position is located at John Pappajohn Pavilion in Iowa City. It is scheduled for 24 hours per week with rotating shifts, every other weekend, and rotating holidays.

Requirements

One year of experience as a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant I or in a similar position.
Satisfactory completion of the established Psychiatric Nursing Assistant Training Program or an equivalent program.
Ability to work in an environment with conflicting demands or priorities and rushed or urgent timelines.
Ability to manage multiple assignments and respond quickly and immediately to emergencies.
Ability to maintain attention to detail over extended periods and remain aware of variations in 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 with varied backgrounds.

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.
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.