Psychiatric Technician

McLaren Health Care•Lapeer, MI

About The Position

Working under the direction of an RN and in compliance with the treatment plan, the Psychiatric Technician provides therapeutic care and monitors patients’ conditions. The role assists patients with daily activities and helps ensure a safe, clean environment. The technician also supports patients and families with compassionate attention and assistance while following applicable healthcare regulations, safety requirements, and workplace protocols.

Requirements

Meet one of the following education or experience qualifications: an associate degree in a human services field or science; current enrollment in an accredited nursing program with a completed mental health clinical rotation; a high school diploma and three years of direct patient care experience in an inpatient psychiatric unit or residential setting; or a high school diploma and three years of relevant human services experience, such as social services, law enforcement, community mental health, hospital, or criminal justice work, or experience as a security officer in a hospital setting.
Have a basic understanding of patient care, medical terminology, coding procedures, mental health, and appropriate interventions within the psychiatric technician scope of practice.
Have excellent interpersonal, organizational, and customer service skills.
Have working knowledge of electronic medical healthcare record systems.
Be able to manage patients with different types of personalities.
Be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and policy and procedure manuals.
Have knowledge and skill with common office software applications.
Work well in teams involved in patient care.
Listen actively to patients to better understand their experiences and build stronger bonds.
Remain composed in unforeseen or emergency situations.
Respect patient confidentiality.
Follow directions exactly as given.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working with people with mental illness or substance abuse disorders.
Bachelor’s degree in a human services field or science.

Responsibilities

Observe patients’ behavior, listen to their concerns, and record their condition, observations, and services performed.
Lead patients in therapeutic and recreational activities.
Assist with admitting, transporting, and discharging patients.
Monitor patients’ vital signs.
Help patients with activities of daily living, including eating and bathing.
Restrain patients who may become physically violent.
Provide compassionate support, attention, and assistance to patients and families.
Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, including HIPAA and OSHA.
Maintain a safe and clean working environment and protect patients and employees by following infection-control, hazardous-waste, and other policies and protocols.
Perform other related duties as required and directed.