Behavioral Health Attendant

Position Summary

Under the general direction of a Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) provides direct, non-clinical support to patients requiring observation who may be experiencing mental health or behavioral challenges. BHAs collaborate closely with clinical staff to maintain a safe and therapeutic environment while upholding patient dignity and aligning with Brown University Health’s core values: Compassion, Accountability, Respect, Excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive report on assigned patient(s) prior to assuming observation responsibilities.

• Conduct continuous or intermittent observations as assigned.

• Maintain constant attention on patient(s), free from distractions.

• Promptly report changes in patient condition to nursing or clinical staff.

• Monitor and document patient behavior, mood, and activities per established protocols.

• Aid with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:

  • Hygiene
  • Meals
  • Mobility

• Provide appropriate patient engagement, including:

  • Conversation
  • Recreational activities in line with training

• Utilize approved verbal de-escalation techniques to ensure safety.

• Maintain a safe, hazard-free care environment.

• Adhere to all hospital safety protocols and procedures.

• Support clean, organized patient care areas.

Training & Compliance

• Obtain and maintain required certifications:

  • De-escalation and restraint training (initial + annual re-certification)
  • Basic Life Support (BLS)
  • Safe patient handling training

• Participate in staff development, supervision, and meetings as required.

• Maintain:

  • Patience confidentiality
  • Privacy standards
  • Patient rights

Additional Duties

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent (required)

• Experience: Previous patient care experience or education in a human services field (preferred)

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Active participation in patient care and ADLs.

• Ability to perform physical tasks, including:

  • Lifting
  • Turning
  • Assisting patient movement (sitting, standing, kneeling positions)

Independent Action & Teamwork

• Work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, including:

  • Nurses
  • Social workers
  • THERAPISTS
  • Physicians

Supervisory Responsibility

• None

Pay Range

$18.04-$28.46

EEO Statement

Brown University Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment.

Location

Newport Hospital - 11 Friendship Street Newport, Rhode Island 02840

Work Type

7p-730a

Work Shift

Night

Daily Hours

12 hours

Driving Required

No