Psychiatric Nursing Assistant II

Texas Health & Human Services Commission•San Antonio, TX

3d•$3,048 - $4,150•Onsite

About The Position

The Psychiatric Nursing Assistant II (PNA II) performs moderately complex, journey-level rehabilitative patient care services under the clinical supervision of a Registered Nurse in an inpatient psychiatric setting. The role provides emergency, health, and personal care; therapeutic interaction; observation and reporting of patient conditions and behaviors; electronic documentation; and participation in individualized and unit-based programming. The PNA II supports patients’ living and social skills and progress toward recovery-plan goals and a less restrictive environment. As an integral member of the recovery team, the PNA II provides verbal and written information about patient behaviors and progress, participates in shift reports and recovery team meetings, and performs delegated nursing duties within their competency. The position may provide guidance to PNA Is and works under general supervision with limited latitude for initiative and independent judgment. The position has no financial responsibility but is accountable for assigned property. Duties, work location, and shift patterns may change to meet hospital needs. Work may involve exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials, and the employee has limited access to records in accordance with HIPAA regulations. Other duties may include supporting disaster response, recovery, or Continuity of Operations activation, potentially at an alternate location or on an alternate shift. The role is based at the Terrell Center for Youth in Terrell, Texas. It is full-time, not eligible for telework, and may require flexible hours, rotating or extended shifts, overtime, and occasional travel of up to 5%. The posting identifies a day shift and an additional second/evening shift. The position may be eligible for additional pay for evening, night, and/or weekend work.

Requirements

At least 12 months of work experience.
Ability to read, write, and understand English and effectively communicate and carry out verbal and written instructions.
Knowledge of patient-care techniques and treatment, therapy, developmental, and patient-centered recovery programs.
Basic computer skills and the ability to document and report patient-care information.
Knowledge of effective interpersonal and leadership skills and the ability to interact effectively with team members.
Skill in taking vital signs.
Ability to provide patient care, administer first aid or CPR, and conduct TIPS.
Ability to work with others and accept supervision.
Ability to train and provide guidance to others.
CPR certification or ability to obtain CPR certification within the first 60 days of employment.
If transporting patients, a valid Texas driver license or ability to obtain one within 90 days of hire, and an eligible driving record under HHSC Fleet Management policy; applicants with an out-of-state license must provide an original certified driving record.
Must be at least 21 years old to work at Terrell Center for Youth.
Must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and specified registry checks.
Must comply with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital immunization procedures.
Must be registered with Selective Service if male and between ages 18 and 25.
Flexibility in work hours may be required, including overtime or extended hours.

Nice To Haves

Twelve months of direct-care experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Attend work regularly, follow assigned or rotating shift schedules, and perform other assigned duties.
Support implementation of individualized recovery plans and help patients work toward their goals through ongoing, person-centered therapeutic communication.
Assist patients with activities of daily living, hygiene, and eating to promote independence and self-care; accompany patients to appointments as required.
Communicate effectively with team members and provide collaborative verbal and written updates about patients as a recovery-team or admissions-team participant.
Use basic computer and documentation skills to report patient-care information clearly, concisely, and promptly in electronic records.
Assist licensed nurses with monitoring patients during medication administration or treatment, including taking and monitoring vital signs and performing other tasks within competency.
Promote safety through environmental awareness and positive engagement with patients to reduce unsafe situations and injuries.
Promote classes and programs, encourage patient participation, and co-facilitate groups as assigned or requested.
Respond to crises and psychiatric emergencies using the least restrictive intervention necessary, including TIPS and verbal de-escalation under direct RN supervision.
Perform CPR and Heimlich techniques and use an AED according to American Heart Association specifications.
Provide the RN with timely, clinically relevant observations about patients, including possible medication side effects, illness or injury, and behavioral escalation.
Provide guidance and preceptorship to PNAs, when requested, in the absence of PNA III and IV staff.
Serve on assigned unit-based and hospital-wide committees, attend meetings, collaborate with team members, and contribute to quality improvement, patient safety, and strategic planning.
Participate in disaster response, recovery, or Continuity of Operations activities as assigned, which may require an alternate shift or location.