Mental Health Technician, AM

About the Role

A Mental Health Technician provides support to mental healthcare professionals within a mental health crisis center facility. They observe and record patient behavior and activities, report to nurses and doctors, ensure patient comfort and care, and utilize de-escalation skills to calm patients experiencing a crisis. All de-escalation training will be provided after hire.

Responsibilities

• Provide care to patients in a way that ensures comfort and safety.
• Assist patients with daily living activities (serving meals, escorting to restroom/showers, providing clothing, etc.).
• Assist with patient behavioral problems using de-escalation techniques.
• Observe and identify patients who might be agitated or distressed and engage with them to prevent crisis escalation.
• Record patient activities and behaviors according to policies and procedures.
• Provide meals according to established program schedule and guidelines.
• Conduct patient and bed/chair searches for contraband items per policy as needed.
• Provide one-to-one coverage for patients on special status as assigned.
• Collaborate with the treatment team to ensure efficient patient care.
• Participate in or lead activities and group sessions with patients.
• Assist with crisis intervention when needed.
• Assist in the application or use of seclusion and restraint per policy when required.
• Maintain cleanliness of patient beds, chairs, tables, and other furniture within the facility.
• Maintain cleanliness of food preparation area and food storage units (freezers, refrigerators, pantry).
• Maintain order of the linen and clothing unit as needed.
• Conduct and report inventory of food, linen, and other care items.
• Conduct and report inventory of forms needed to document patient activity and behaviors.
• Maintain confidentiality of patient records.
• Follow established policies and procedures for environmental, quality assurance, safety, and infection control.
• Perform hand-off communication at shift change.
• Seek supervision and consultation as needed.
• Accept and employ suggestions for improvement.
• Actively work to enhance skills.
• Treat consumers, visitors, and co-workers with courtesy and respect.
• Manage physically aggressive consumers while protecting their dignity, respect, and self-esteem.
• Respect consumers’ privacy and confidentiality.
• Actively participate in performance improvement activities and committees as required.
• Complete assigned tasks in a timely manner.
• Attend in-service training and workshops.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to lift and carry at least 25 pounds.
• Must be able to walk while carrying food trays or other items without losing balance.
• Must be able to bend, stoop, or squat without falling over.
• Must be able to reach forward or overhead without restriction.
• Must have fine dexterity and manipulation ability to use keys, grasp paperwork, and operate doorknobs.
• Must have visual acuity in at least one eye and full range of head and neck motion.

Qualifications

• At least 6 months of experience in the healthcare field with experience relative to patient care.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Certification as a C.N.A. or N.A. preferred but not required.
• Ability to use a computer and basic Microsoft Word applications.
• At least 23 years of age.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Dependable transportation.