Patient Support Technician

About the Role

The Patient Support Technician assists in total patient care and guides therapeutic approaches. The Technician is an active team member and participates in appropriate treatment modalities. This position provides for the physical and psychological environment of the Psychiatric Hospital according to the goals and philosophy of its program.

Responsibilities

• Observe patient activity and monitor safety
• Maintain a safe and clean care environment for patients
• Assist with patient care needs for hygiene, personal care, support, and social and leisure activities
• Carry out assignments or orders delegated by nursing staff
• Assist patients with completing consents for care
• Complete duties for admissions and discharges of patients
• Facilitate and provide additional staff support in patient group activities
• Document patient progress on treatment goals in the patient’s record in a timely manner
• Prepare and serve meals and snacks in the kitchen
• Participate in de-escalation skills and seclusion and restraint interventions when needed to maintain safety for all
• Complete all trainings and attend all staff meetings as assigned by supervisor

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED (Associate’s degree in mental health related field preferred)
• Two (2) years in a mental health setting preferred
• CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) certification (must be obtained after hire and prior to providing direct patient care, and maintained current through employment)
• BLS (Basic Life Support) and First Aid certification (must be obtained after hire and prior to providing direct patient care, and maintained current through employment)
• SERV Safe Food Handler Certification (required prior to working in the kitchen or assisting with serving meals, and must be kept current)
• Valid driver’s license and active auto insurance coverage
• Satisfactory results from criminal and driving record background checks
• Minimum 21 years of age (25 years of age to operate a Bowen vehicle)

Physical Requirements

• Minimal exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues
• Minimal ergonomic risk for repetitive motion impairment
• May require bending, lifting, or twisting in the work area
• Ability to engage with patients who may become violent and participate in physical patient holds using approved techniques when necessary