Nursing Assistant - Mental Health

About the role

The Iowa City VA Health Care System is hiring a Nursing Assistant for the Mental Health Unit. This role provides direct patient care, supports a safe therapeutic environment, and assists with recovery-oriented, trauma-informed care for veterans in acute psychiatric stabilization. The Nursing Assistant assists with activities of daily living, promoting dignity, privacy, and independence.

Responsibilities

• Support safe ambulation, transfers, and use of mobility devices using safe patient handling practices
• Maintain ward cleanliness, handle linens, and apply physical restraints or protective devices as ordered
• Participate in safety checks, observation rounds, and environmental safety activities
• Recognize and report changes in behavior, mood, cognition, or physical status to the RN
• Use therapeutic communication and de-escalation techniques to support veterans in distress
• Document care, observations, and safety checks according to policy and unit expectations
• Assist with admission, transfer, discharge, and orientation processes for veterans

Qualifications

Basic Requirements

• United States Citizenship (non‑citizens may be appointed only when qualified citizens cannot be recruited per VA policy)
• English Language Proficiency – proficiency in basic written and spoken English required (38 U.S.C. 7402(d))
• Experience – Education or Training – meet one of the following:
  • Six (6) months of general experience demonstrating ability to acquire the knowledge and skills to perform NA work
  • One year of education above high school with courses related to the NA occupation
  • Completion of an intensive, specialized, occupation‑related training course of less than one year as a NA

Grade Determinations

• GS‑03: No additional requirements beyond basic requirements; entry‑level, closely supervised.
• GS‑04: Requires either:
  • One (1) year of experience as a Nursing Assistant or in another medical field (LP