Behavioral Health Associate

PURPOSE STATEMENT

Provide care for patients in accordance of the instructions of physicians or other health practitioners. Demonstrates a positive, empathetic, and professional attitude toward customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledges and works to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrate a sense of urgency related to the importance of patient safety and providing excellent customer services.
• Ensure the well-being of patients and provide a positive, supportive and structured environment.
• Responsible for conducting safety checks and ensuring that supervision is conducted at 15 minute intervals, as noted in special precautions, or in accordance with individualized supervision guidelines as needed.
• Document timely, accurate and appropriate clinical information in patient's medical record.
• Aid in providing a safe, secure and comfortable environment for patients, significant others and staff.
• Monitor behavioral improvements and reinforce these behaviors. Report significant changes to the nurse immediately.
• Engage with patient in activities and interactions designed to encourage achievement of treatment goals.
• Respond to distressed patient in a non-threatening manner and attempt to understand the source of distress. Apply de-escalation techniques to help manage patient’s emotions, behavior and participation in treatment and assist with seclusion and restraint when necessary.
• As part of the multidisciplinary team, provide safety and increase coping skills of patient and assist in developing strategies for helping patients to be as independent as possible.
• Identify self to patient and visitors promptly and respond to patient requests quickly.
• Help with admissions and discharges if needed.
• Lead or co-lead individual or group sessions as part of specific recreational or therapeutic procedures.
• Participate in rehabilitation and treatment programs as well as teach strategies to promote patient wellness and independence, as needed.
• Provide transportation for patient or coordinate transportation with appropriate staff member, as needed.
• Quality of work exhibited through accuracy, neatness, and timeliness of work completed. Adherence to work schedule and overall attendance.
• Demonstrate a positive, empathetic and professional attitude towards customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledge and work to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Six months experience as a BHA1 preferred.
• Six months or more experience working with the specific population of the facility preferred.
• CPR and de-escalation and restraint certification required (training available upon hire and offered by facility).
• First aid may be required based on state or facility requirements.