MENTAL HEALTH TECH (PRN)

Mental Health Technician

The Mental Health Technician functions as an active part of the treatment team, providing continuous patient care, supervision, interaction and role modeling to patients ranging in age from adolescence through geriatrics. All MHT's work under the direction of a Registered Nurse and are to report any changes in a patient's condition to a Registered Nurse. MHT is responsible for the safety of an assigned unit by conducting visual observations of patients, collect and record vital signs/symptoms properly, reporting abnormalities, appropriate and timely documentation of findings, and employ appropriate crisis techniques as needed. The MHT may assist patients with personal hygiene and activities of daily living with Registered Nurse oversight. The MHT is to establish and maintain a professional therapeutic relationship with patients including modeling and teaching appropriate social skills. The MHT is to facilitate daily groups as assigned. The MHT promotes clinical programming adherence. The MHT responds to emergency codes as requested or assigned.

Qualifications: High School Degree or equivalent. None required. One-year related experience, with knowledge of psychiatric patient care techniques with understanding of mental health signs/symptoms is preferred. BLS (Basic Life Support) Healthcare Provider course according to RQI program guidelines must be completed during new hire orientation prior to working in a clinical setting. Handle with Care, and Verbal De-Escalation training must be completed within 60 days of hire and annually prior to working in a clinical setting. Additional training to be completed with respective timeline. Must be able to identify and address the special needs for adolescent, adult and geriatric patients and communicate with the patient. Ability to work as member of an interdisciplinary team. Able to work with patients at all levels of functional ability and from diverse backgrounds. Practices teamwork.