Mental Health Associate - Part Time Third Shift

Job Description

Mental Health Associate collaborates with other members of the nursing staff and multidisciplinary treatment team through verbal communication during physical rounds, patient care conferences (formal or informal) and through the role of patient advocate with ancillary departments. The Associate remains calm and problem solves during stressful situations, relates in an empathetic and professional manner with emotionally disturbed patients and families, takes direction from an RN, cooperates in a professional team approach, and demonstrates Valley Health Values in all interactions.

WMC EmPATH Unit-206180

Worker Sub Type:
Regular

Work Shift:

Third Shift (United States of America)

Pay Grade: 108

ASSISTS IN MAINTAINING THERAPEUTIC MILIEU: Reports changes in physical or psychological status; identifies patient situations where restraints or seclusion may be necessary; demonstrates correct application of wrist, vest, and four-point leather restraints; in an actual or role‑playing situation demonstrates seclusion team member role. Collaborates with nursing and multidisciplinary staff through verbal communication, advises on therapy, administers the MMSE consistently, gives clear instructions for the MMPI, lists at least four elements of a therapeutic relationship, structures individual patient time to achieve multidisciplinary team goals, includes significant family members with patient permission, reviews patient rights, protects confidentiality, encourages participation in community meetings, monitors safety and completes checks, limits interactions to those enhancing self-esteem and communication, utilizes de‑escalation techniques, encourages participation in activities, follows established plans with rewards and consequences, supports other staff, and acts as a positive role model.

ASSISTS NURSE IN PROVIDING AND COORDINATING PATIENT CARE: Under the direction of an RN/LPN, provides age‑appropriate care as detailed in the unit scope of care. Has input into formal and informal care planning, assists with activities of daily living, goal setting, delegated nursing procedures (ADLS, vital signs, meal monitoring), documentation using flow sheets, evaluation of patient responses, pre‑ and post‑evaluation treatments, maintains confidentiality, demonstrates behavior modification principles, escorts/transports patients, assists with special procedures, and maintains stocks.

COMPLETES LEADING GROUPS: Completes leading groups with documented supervision and evaluation by an Activities Therapist, manages paperwork, and organizes, plans, and conducts group activities, relieving other staff as needed.

DEMONSTRATES ACCOUNTABILITY, PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH: Adheres to policies regarding work schedule and fringe benefits, identifies own behavioral impact, attends staff meetings and yearly trainings, attends at least one seminar per year outside the hospital, follows dress code, maintains current CPR certification, follows through on delegated responsibilities, documents training, assumes additional responsibilities assigned by manager, and assists in preceptoring new employees.

Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Sociology, Social Science, or related field preferred, or five years of experience in psychiatric care preferred.

Experience in a hospital setting preferred.

BLS Certification (Basic Life Support) – American Heart ‘Healthcare Provider’ (HCP) – AHA approved required *

• New hires must have American Heart Association (AHA) appropriate certification prior to completion of orientation.

• Successful completion of unit orientation checklist within six weeks of hire required.
• Understands basic principles of human growth and development required.
• Record clear of sexual misconduct or abusive behavior toward others required.
• Competent to successfully interact with patients according to their special needs which may apply based on the age of the patient served required.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.

Non‑exempt

Tasks may require lifting up to 50 lbs, moving patients,…