Behavioral Health Safety Technician - Adolescent BH

Job Title

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Summary:

The Behavioral Health Safety Technician observes, documents, and reports patient behavior. They utilize principles of therapeutic communication and de-escalation in order to build rapport with individuals, assist with groups, and maintain an overall healthy milieu. They support patients with following the expectations and daily schedule of the unit. As needed, they may be assigned to other roles within behavioral health, such as PSA and VMT.

Responsibilities:

Conducts and records patient observations at specified intervals

Observes patients on surveillance equipment in an uninterrupted, continuous manner as assigned

Conducts and documents routine environmental safety inspection of the unit per shift

Reports any and all safety, security issues immediately upon observation

Utilizes principles of therapeutic communication while engaging patients in 1:1 and group interventions

Assists in supporting patients to follow unit schedule and expectations

Promotes a safe, secure, and therapeutic milieu

Serves as patient safety attendant (PSA/1:1) as assigned

Assists with patients' personal and room hygiene, ensuring that patient rooms are orderly and clean

Applies standard precautions and other principles of infection control. Cleans equipment, patient and work areas as necessary

Communicates changes in patient behavior, interactions, and physical condition to nursing staff

Ensures hand-off communication between staff regarding patients and areas of environmental concern

Applies principles of de-escalation and assists nursing with the application of restrictive intervention, as necessary

Qualifications:

Hired candidates will be expected to obtain and hold Basic Life Support (BLS) and Crisis Intervention certifications upon employment. Training will be provided.

Required:

High school diploma or equivalent.

Effective verbal and written communication.

Interpersonal skills necessary for work in an inpatient psychiatric setting.

1 year of Behavioral Health Tech experience

Preferred:

1-2 years of related experience in psychiatry or related human service field.

Level 1 American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT) Certification