Behavioral Health Attendant

Under the general direction of the Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) provides direct, non-clinical support to patients requiring direct or indirect observations and who may be experiencing mental health and behavioral challenges. BHAs collaborate with clinical staff to ensure a safe, therapeutic environment while upholding patient dignity and adhering to Brown University Health care values.

Responsibilities

• Receives report on assigned patient before assuming responsibility of observations.
• Conducts continuous or intermittent patient observation as assigned.
• Reports changes in patient condition to nursing or clinical staff promptly.
• Monitors and documents patient behavior, mood, and activity in accordance with established protocols.
• Maintains patient focus at all times, free from distractions.
• Assists patients with daily activities such as hygiene, meals, and mobility, as needed based upon report and direction received by registered nurse.
• Actively engages with assigned patient(s) throughout shift in a compassionate and respectful manner while providing interaction and recreational activities in accordance with training provided.
• De-escalates situations using approved verbal intervention techniques to promote patient and staff safety.
• Obtains initial certification and annual re-certification in system/facility approved de-escalation and restraint course with no restrictions for those working in behavioral health and emergency departments, BLS, and training in safe patient handling per facility guidelines.
• Performs physical aspects of the position which may include lifting, turning, and physical care/movement of patients from a sitting, standing or kneeling position.
• Attends staff development, supervision, and staff meetings as assigned.
• Ensures the care area is free of hazards and complies with safety guidelines, and assists with the maintenance of clean and orderly patient care spaces.
• Observes patient rights, maintains confidentiality of patient information, and maintains patient privacy.
• Follows hospital policy and procedures regarding patient and staff safety practices.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School graduate or its equivalent required.
• Previous experience in direct patient care and/or patient observations, or completion of one (1) year of progressive education in a human services-related field (e.g., psychology, nursing, social work, health sciences) is required.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Participates in patient care, activities of daily living, and physical management of patients according to training.
• Works alongside clinical staff, including nurses, social workers, therapists, and physicians to achieve treatment goals.

Pay

$21.09-$22.04 per hour

Schedule

7:00 AM - 7:30 PM, every other weekend/every other holiday (EOW/EOH), day shift