Behavioral Health Assistant

We continue our commitment to raise the bar on the quality of behavioral health care provided to those in our community who suffer from mental illness. Finding the best people to join our team is crucial in meeting our goals. If you thrive in a team environment and you want to contribute to the safe and efficient flow of patients, join us as we build an integrated, qualified team dedicated to behavioral health.

In collaboration with the multidisciplinary treatment team, provides coordination, implementation and milieu observation in keeping with the general treatment mode of the program in which employed.  The values of teamwork, respect and caring, effective use of resources, and initiative are integrated comprehensively into the performance standards in the Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) department. The position is an integral part of the team approach to patient care and performs various tasks and procedures to contribute to the safe and efficient flow of patients through the department.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

PATIENT CARE: As delegated by and under the direct supervision of an RN, provides care to patients and families in the Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) department.

• Collects patient data as directed by RN.
• Obtains vital signs as directed by RN.
• Assists with the transportation of patients.
• As needed, assists with the activities of daily living (ADLs); such as toileting, physical transfers, daily hygiene, and assisting nursing staff of cleaning up of bodily fluids.
• Provides comfort measures, e.g. positioning, extra blankets/pillows.
• Provides for safety through use of restraints as ordered, adequate lighting, slippers, identification of hazards, assisted ambulation.
• Applies principles of body mechanics when positioning, transferring, and ambulating patients.
• Assists with the discharge of patients which may include reinforcement of discharge teaching done by RN.
• Other duties as assigned, ie. Floating.

COMMUNICATION: Uses appropriate communication skills in dealing with patients, visitors, EMS personnel and hospital personnel.

• Communicates pertinent information regarding patients to appropriate RN.
• Seeks assistance in understanding patient behavior.
• Accurately documents patient belonging list using appropriate forms and standards.
• Establishes rapport with patients, families, visitors, and other hospital personnel.
• Gives directions to patients, families, and visitors in a courteous and clear manner.
• Identifies administrative lines and reports pertinent information to the appropriate individual(s).

MILIEU OBSERVATION: Promotes therapeutic environment in department.

• Follows appropriate de-escalation protocol based on training received on recognizing and reacting to potentially aggressive behavior.
• Provides observation of patient behavior in order to provide a safer environment for the patient.
• Alerts RN to potential escalation of behavior.
• Provides for patient safety by recognizing subtle changes and initiating appropriate de-escalation standard practices.
• Uses trauma communication skills when interacting with patients and families.

DOCUMENTATION:

• Assures appropriate documentation in patient EPIC record for significant behavioral observations/interactions related to successful progress in treatment.

TEAM MEMBER:

• Active participant in Code Grey procedures.
• Is an active team member providing and supporting patient care.
• Attends and participates in unit meetings.
• Uses effective communication skills with team. Maintains productive relationships with co-workers at various sites and in the profession, keeping current with community resources.
• Assists with clerical functions as needed.

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent. 
• Training or coursework in behavioral health field preferred.

Experience:

• One year of clinical experience in a behavioral health setting or related experience required; two year’s preferred. 
• Acute care experience preferred.

Skills:

• Able to work in a fast-paced environment with ability to prioritize multiple assignments.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Keyboard skills and ability to navigate electronic systems applicable to job functions.

LEGACY’S VALUES IN ACTION:

Follows guidelines set forth in Legacy’s Values in Action.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disabled.

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