Behavioral Health Technician

Job Description

Summary

The Behavioral Health Tech II will provide direct patient care in coordination with psychiatric treatment team and nursing staff providing psychiatric treatment. The BHT will assist patients with activities of daily living. This individual will perform basic and specialized observation of patients as assigned. The BHT will monitor patient safety and documents accurately. The Tech will review ongoing mental status and recognize changes in behavior. Additionally, the BHT will recognize tension and stressors, offer support, and de-escalate aggressive behaviors. The BHT will have the ability to set limits and enforce unit rules. This individual will perform vital signs on all patients assigned including blood pressure, heart rate, temperatures, oxygen saturations, height, weight, and measure intake and output, as well as to alert the nurse of any abnormalities. With assistance of the nurse, the BHT will initiate admissions completing physical checks, belongings checks, and orienting the patient to the facility. The BHT will operate as a patient advocate by fully integrating the patient into the therapeutic milieu. The BHT will collect specimens and documents appropriately. In addition, this individual will perform daily duties as assigned by charge nurse to include responding to code situations, as well as any additional duties as assigned. The BHT will lead group discussions on unit rules, patient safety, and other areas within their scope of practice. This individual will also perform EKGs and collect blood samples.

Requirements

Associate's degree required, Bachelor's degree preferred. In lieu of diploma, must hold a valid CNA license. This will be waived if assigned to a Behavioral Health transport team. Candidates with prior experience working with psychiatric patients or relevant college curriculum are preferred. Additionally, six months experience in a hospital setting as a Psychiatric Technician or Nursing Assistant preferred.

Licenses and Certifications:

Valid and active CNA licensure in appropriate state required (unless an Associate's degree is obtained)

De-escalation training required

BLS required

Valid and active Class F driver's license prior to employment (only if assigned to the Behavioral Health Transport Team)

Work Requirements:

Shift: Day

On Call: No

Weekends: Rotating

Travel Required: No Travel

Shift Details: 7a-7p

City/State: Johnson City, TN

Location

Johnson City Medical Center