Mental Health Associate

Mental Health Associate - Full Time page is loaded## Mental Health Associate - Full Time locations:
Winchester, VA:
Winchester Medical Center time type:
Full time posted on:
Posted Todayjob requisition :
JR107977## Department

PSYCHIATRIC - 206060## Worker Sub Type Regular## Work Shift
** Pay Grade
** 108#
** 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 conference (formal or informal) and through the role of patient advocate with ancillary department; remains calm and problem solves during stressful situation; relates in an empathetic and professional manner with emotionally disturbed patients/families; takes direction from a RN and cooperates in professional team approach;

demonstrates Valley Health Values in all interactions.  Duties may include, but are not limited to:  ASSISTS IN MAINTAINING THERAPEUTIC MILIEU:
Reports changes in physical/psychological status. Identifies patient situations where restrains or seclusion are may be necessary; demonstrates correct application of wrist, vest and four-point leather restrains; in an actual or role playing situation demonstrates seclusion team member role. Collaborates with other members of the nursing staff and multidisciplinary treatment team through verbal communication during physical rounds, patient care conference (formal or informal) and through the role of patient advocate with ancillary department.

Administers the MMSE consistently and scores accurately. Gives clear instructions to patients taking the MMPI and anticipates whether an individual may need additional assistance. Able to list at least four elements necessary for a therapeutic rather than a social relationship. Structures individual time with patients to achieve goals set by the multidisciplinary team. Knowledge of which family members/other are significant to the patient and with patient permission, includes them in conversation and education.

Demonstrates ability to locate and review with patients and/or orienting staff information on patient’s rights. Protects patient confidentiality by refusing to release information without specific permission. Assumes responsibility for encouraging participation in daily Community Meetings and other groups and meetings. Monitors patient and unit environment for safety by insuring completion of checks per policy. Knowledge of assigned patients’ needs. Completes safety checks and seclusion and restraint checks as needed.

Communicates to modular leader information obtained during routine interactions with patient. Limits interactions with patients to those that enhance self-esteem, assertiveness, problem solving, communication skills and expressing thoughts and feelings. Utilizes de-escalation techniques. Encourages patients to participate in group and/or individual activities. Follows established plan by giving rewards and consequences appropriately and consistently. Supports other staff members in providing patient care for total patient group by offering assistance when needed.

Participates in groups as designated. Acts as a positive role model for patients and staff  ASSISTS NURSE IN PROVIDING AND COORDINATING PATIENT CARE:
Under the direction of an RN/LPN, provides care and treatment appropriate to the age of patient served as detailed and determined through the unit specific Scope of Care, Competency/Skills Checklists, Equipment Skills Matrix and Inservice Training. Has input into all formal/informal care planning activities pertaining to assigned patients. Provides assistance to patients in managing their own activities of daily living.

Assists patients in goal setting. Performs delegated nursing procedures (ADLS, vital signs, meal monitoring, etc.). Assists patients in developing leisure time skills. Documents care provided using appropriate Flow sheets. Evaluates and documents patient responses to care as indicated. Assists with pre-evaluation treatment and post-evaluation treatment procedures. Manages all patient information with respect to confidentiality. Demonstrate knowledge of…