Psychiatric Technician, PRN

As a patient-focused organization, University of Utah Health exists to enhance the health and well‑being of people through patient care, research and education. Success in this mission requires a culture of collaboration, excellence, leadership, and respect. University of Utah Health seeks staff that are committed to the values of compassion, collaboration, innovation, responsibility, integrity, quality and trust that are integral to our mission. EO/AA. Corporate Overview: The University of Utah is a Level 1 Trauma Center and is nationally ranked and recognized for its academic research, quality standards, and overall patient experience. Our five hospitals and eleven clinics provide excellence in comprehensive services, medical advancement, and overall patient outcomes. Responsibilities Assists with maintaining a safe and hazard‑free environment by observing and documenting patient behavior, conducting patient room searches, reporting unsafe conditions, and applying appropriate emotional and physical support. Performs or assists with the admission of new patients by gathering routine information for nursing assessment, searching patients and personal effects for contraband, and documenting personal effects and other relevant information. Orients the patient and the patient's family to the facility and the policies and procedures. Escorts patients to off‑unit appointments and activities using therapeutic interventions to ensure the safety of the patient, hospital staff, and other University patients and visitors. Assists with providing a therapeutic milieu for patients by encouraging participation in recreational activities and group therapies. Assists with supportive therapy for select patients by leading activity and conversation groups. Assists in the development of patient behavioral contracts. May function as a preceptor to new Psychiatric Technicians and assists level staff. Assists with the unit's training and quality assurance programs, and provides an annual educational in‑service to co‑workers. Functions as a member of the interdisciplinary treatment team. Assists with initiating and contributing to patient treatment planning, teaching, and discharge planning. Participates in patient‑care team conferences by sharing observations of patient progress toward identified goals and assists the primary Registered Nurse with the development, evaluation, and revision of patient care plans. Knowledge / Skills / Abilities Ability to recognize when a patient is having an adverse reaction to medication and report it in a timely manner to the Registered Nurse. Ability to assess a patient who may potentially harm themselves or others and report this information to the Registered Nurse, and have the ability to assist with restraints and seclusion. Interpersonal skills to acquire the trust of patients and respond appropriately in a crisis situation. Ability to utilize the principles of group dynamics when co‑leading a group to facilitate the development of social, behavioral, and communication skills among group members. Knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on the assigned unit. Knowledge of the principles of lifespan growth and development and the ability to assess data regarding the patient's status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skill. Qualifications Six months of behavioral health or direct patient care experience; may include CNA, MA, HCA, teacher’s aide or assistant. Licenses Required Current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system. The eCredential must be obtained within 30 days of hire. Additional license requirements as determined by the hiring department. Working Conditions and Physical Demands This position involves intensive work that may exert up to 100 pounds and may consistently require lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or otherwise moving objects such as medical equipment or patients while providing care in a psychiatric setting. Workers in this position may be exposed to infectious diseases. Physical Requirements Carrying Lifting Listening Pulling And/or Pushing Reaching Sitting Speaking Standing Stooping Crouching Walking Benefits Competitive pay Healthcare benefits starting on day one 401(k) retirement plan A work environment that values dedication, learning, and work‑life balance #J-18808-Ljbffr