Description

Shift: - Day/Eve 7:00am to 3:30pm and 3:00pm to 11:30pm

Required:*High school diploma or equivalent. *

One year of work experience with psychiatric population preferred.

Summary: Provides nursing care to a patient or group of patients under the direction and supervision of a Registered Professional Nurse. Leads groups & activities with patients.

1. Performs procedures as identified by the PT Skills Checklist; refers to and utilizes appropriate resources. Responds promptly to patient care needs. Maintains a safe patient environment incorporating Norwalk Hospital Policies and Procedures. Shows initiative in noting and offering assistance with unit needs.

2. Communicates with patients, visitors and coworkers within the scope of his/her responsibilities in a courteous manner and takes into consideration issues as it relates to mental status. Observes and reports to the Registered Nurse information about their assigned patients, including changes in condition, behaviors, verbalizations, or any occurrences of an unusual nature, in a clear and timely manner. Documents accurately patient data on appropriate paper forms and in the electronic medical record. Obtains information necessary to carry out patient care assignment.

3. Documentation of Mental Status and Behaviors: The Psychiatric Technician Admission Intake documents that consent forms were given, patient rights explained, unit orientation done and routines and roles of providers explained, etc., and that height, weight and vital signs were obtained, and belongings were processed. Progress notes provide information as it pertains to the patient's mental status and behaviors. Documentation covers patient's expression of suicidal ideation, impaired thought processes, and perception that the patient has the potential for harm to self or others.

4. There is a verbalized knowledge regarding the appropriate use of restraints and that this knowledge is incorporated into practice. There is verbalized knowledge regarding the proper care of patients in restraints. There is a return demonstration at least annually to indicate that the PT can assist in application of restraints under direction of the RN in charge of the restraining. There is verbalized knowledge regarding appropriate assessment of patients in restraints as it pertains to the role of psych tech and the restraint flow sheet is filled out appropriately.

5. Demonstrates the ability to appropriately set limits on patient behaviors, and the ability to respond and de-escalate patients with potential for violence. Demonstrates the ability to conduct a contraband search assuring patient rights are maintained. Exercises principles of confidentiality as it pertains to the behavioral health population. Assesses the environment as it pertains to issues of safety.

6. Demonstrates the ability to lead / co-lead groups. Leads or co-leads wrap up, goals, and activities groups. Documents patients' participation in group.

7. Demonstrates knowledge of issues related to patient rights, including the requirements for the involuntary patient and documentation reflects this. Assures that the patient is aware of their rights as evidenced by the documentation that these rights have been reviewed.

8. Identifies the learning needs of the patient / family and documents. Provides information and instruction on the constructive behaviors and the importance of participating in the milieu, and documents this information as well as the patient's response to education

9. Performs other duties as assigned.

10. Fulfills all compliance responsibilities related to the position.

*Required: *One year of work experience with psychiatric population preferred. High school diploma or equivalent is required.

BLS/CPR required within 90 days of start date or upon completion of orientation process (before being released from orientation and functioning independently) whichever comes first. CPI or other de-escalation technique training within 6 months of hire.

Company: Norwalk Hospital Association

Org Unit: 338

Department: Psych Unit

Exempt: No

Salary Range: $16.50 - $30.44 Hourly

We are an equal opportunity employer

Qualified applicants are considered for positions and are evaluated without regard to mental or physical disability, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status or any other classification protected under applicable Federal, State or Local law.

We will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation to the known physical or mental limitations of a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation or our business. If you believe you require such assistance to complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact Human Resources at 203-739-7330 (for reasonable accommodation requests only). Please provide all information requested to ensure that you are considered for current or future opportunities.