JOB SUMMARY:
Under the direction and supervision of the RN, LVN or Charge RN, the Mental Health Tech assists the licensed nursing staff in providing and documenting patient care including assistance with activities of daily living. Supports the unit functions and maintains a safe and clean environment for patients, visitors and co-workers; functions as an integral part of the interdisciplinary care team and communicates pertinent patient information to the supervising RN. Performs some clerical duties as assigned and provides basic nursing care for the adult and geriatric patients. Performs responsibilities within the guidelines of the Nursing Structure Standards, Hospital/Nursing Policy and state regulatory and accrediting requirements.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING
- Current BLS upon hire or must be obtained within 30 days of hire.
- Behavioral violence prevention certification as required and updated yearly.
- One (1) year prior mental health experience preferred, CNA preferred.
- Familiarity with medical and psychological terminology preferred
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
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Performs or assists with patient care activities consistent with the regulations for UAP (Unlicensed Assistive Personnel) and activities of daily living per policy standard of care, giving proper attention to the cleanliness and daily hygiene of patients with emphasis on bath, AM/PM care, and oral hygiene under the supervision and direction of the RN. |
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Assists in the data collection by obtaining and recording vital signs, height, weight, and I&O measurements and reports findings to the supervising RN. |
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Performs routine unit rounds and patient checks as assigned; informs charge nurse of difficulty locating patients in a timely manner. |
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Carries out safety measures to prevent patients from harming themselves or others. |
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Reports and documents any physical or behavioral changes observed in the patient to the supervising RN. |
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Assists in the admission, transfers and discharges as directed and ensures that the patient is familiar with his/her room, (e.g., bed controls, light control and other physical surroundings). |
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Is aware of patient’s elimination; reports to the supervising RN when it is abnormal. |
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Accurately and concisely documents data on appropriate forms. |
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Assists nurse in any treatment or procedure as instructed, obtaining urine samples, room searches and safety checks/rounds. |
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Assists in implementing components of the nursing process as directed by the RN. |
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Assists in providing for nutritional support and ensure adequate hydration by seeing that food and nourishment is given to patient with assistance if needed and is aware of patient’s ability to retain and absorb nourishment. |
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Assists in providing for patient safety and environmental cleanliness, keeping the bedside stand and room tidy and free of spills, unnecessary equipment/clutter and checks equipment before, during and after use. |
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Provides assistance with activities of daily living (grooming, feeding, dressing, walking and personal hygiene). |
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Takes care of and records patient’s personal belongings/contraband is properly removed. |
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Reinforces patient teaching that has been initiated by the licensed person. |
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Assists in implementation of change to improve patient care. |
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Attends and maintains mandatory training in safe patient handling, trained in safe lifting techniques, includes but not limited to:
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