Nursing Assistant-BERT

About the role

Under the supervision of the Registered Nurse and within hospital and department policies and procedures, the CNA–BERT provides high-quality patient care and support and serves as a designated responder for Code Behavioral Emergency Response Team (BERT) activations, supporting patients and staff during escalating behavioral events through early intervention, de-escalation, and crisis management.

A CNA–BERT is a Certified Nursing Assistant trained in behavioral crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques. This role functions as both a nursing assistant and a primary responder during Code BERT activations, supporting safe, coordinated behavioral response efforts.

Works in acute care and behavioral health settings. Requires prolonged standing, walking, and response to unpredictable patient behaviors and behavioral crises, including physical intervention consistent with de-escalation and restraint training protocols.

Works under the supervision of the Registered Nurse and collaborates with the interdisciplinary team during BERT activations. Exercises judgment within scope and seeks guidance for complex situations.

Supervisory responsibilities: None.

Responsibilities

General CNA Duties:

• Provide personal care and activities of daily living
• Perform duties in accordance with state regulatory standards
• Assist with mobility and rehabilitation activities as appropriate
• Identify and report unsafe conditions and remove unsafe equipment
• Observe and report changes in patient condition, behavior, and safety concerns
• Accurately and timely document care in the electronic health record
• Follow infection prevention and safety protocols and may function as a patient observer when assigned

BERT-Specific Duties:

• Respond to Code BERT activations initiated by any staff member
• Utilize verbal and non-verbal de-escalation techniques aligned with hospital protocols
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary BERT team
• Assist in identifying and mitigating environmental risk factors contributing to escalation
• Recognize when escalation to Code Gray is required and communicate to the team
• Participate in post-event debriefs and restoration of a safe care environment
• Maintain ongoing competency in facility approved restraint and seclusion training
• Provide care across the lifespan with cultural sensitivity

Qualifications

• Current Rhode Island or Massachusetts certification as a Nursing Assistant
• Certification in facility approved de-escalation and restraint education, or obtained within 3 months of hire
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• BLS certification required
• Demonstrated basic computer proficiency

Pay

$24.36–$24.84 per hour

Schedule

Day shift, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Location

Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903

Union

International Brotherhood of Teamsters