Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) - PRN

Haven Behavioral Hospital of Philadelphia is a 42-bed acute-care Joint Commission Accredited psychiatric hospital offering a full continuum of care for older adults dealing with mental health issues. We are dedicated to partnering with individuals, families, and communities to improve the lives of patients through high-quality, specialty behavioral health services.

About the role

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) supports the nursing staff in maintaining a therapeutic milieu by performing routinely assigned tasks and carrying out patient care activities within the scope of the BHT's training and experience. The BHT will maintain a safe and professional standard for patient care in accordance with Joint Commission, Federal and State regulations, Oceans' Mission, policies and procedures, and performance improvement standards.

Responsibilities

• Adhere to professional standards, follow policies and procedures, and abide by federal, state, and local requirements, as well as Joint Commission standards.
• Effectively apply supportive behavior when assisting in the control of patients who exhibit unacceptable behavior; employ de-escalation and therapeutic interventions as needed.
• Inventory patient belongings accurately and secure contraband as needed; complete unit safety checks.
• Comply with standard/universal precautions and infection control policies; attend required in-services to stay informed.
• Implement patient care activities under the direction and supervision of licensed nursing personnel, including vital signs, weights, ADL, intake and output documentation, and nutritional monitoring; communicate findings to the nurse.
• Ensure patients receive appropriate diet by reviewing dietary restrictions, food allergies, and preferences.
• Assist patients with laundry, meals, bathroom functions, and maintaining belongings; assist at-risk and/or physically challenged patients with mobility needs.
• Individualize patient care activities to meet age-specific, disability, and cultural sensitivity needs.
• Communicate and document patient observations and data effectively in the patient record; document patient departures from the unit (e.g., passes, transport to appointments) with 100% accuracy and within defined timelines.
• Document significant occurrences, observed behavior, vital signs, nutrition intake, and patient observation findings as requested by the registered nurse, with 100% accuracy and within defined timelines.
• Communicate outcomes of assigned tasks to nursing staff in a timely manner; relay follow-up on patient care responsibilities, incomplete assignments, ongoing activities, and current patient needs to ensure continuity of care.
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent.
• CNA certification or at least 6 months of prior bedside, direct patient care experience in a healthcare setting.

Skills

• Ability to read, write, and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work well with diverse populations.
• Utilize age, disability, and cultural-specific knowledge in working with specialized populations.
• Good physical and mental health, demonstrated by a warm empathetic attitude, respect for dignity, worth, and potential of clients, and a high sense of personal integrity.
• Ability to work under close supervision.
• Must successfully complete CPR certification and an Oceans-approved behavioral de-escalation program.

Schedule

• Day shift: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Night shift: 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM