Behavioral Health Attendant - Emergency Services

About the role

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.
• Conduct continuous or intermittent patient observation as assigned.
• Reports changes in patient condition to nursing or clinical staff promptly.
• Monitor and document patient behavior, mood, and activity in accordance with established protocols.
• Maintain 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-escalate 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.
• Must be able to perform 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.
• Ensure the care area is free of hazards and complies with safety guidelines, and assist with the maintenance of clean and orderly patient care spaces.
• Observes patient rights, maintains confidentiality of patient information, 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.
• Participates in patient care, activities of daily living, and physical management of patients according to training.
• Independent Action: Work alongside clinical staff; including nurses, social workers, therapists, and physicians to achieve treatment goals.
• Supervisory Responsibility: None.

Pay

Pay Range: $21.09‑$22.04 per hour.

Schedule

Work Type: 1900‑0730: every other weekend/holiday (Night shift). Driving Required: No.

Location: Rhode Island Hospital - 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903. Union: International Brotherhood Teamsters.