Certified Nursing Assistant, Behavioral Health - Full Time Days

Behavioral Health Certified Nursing Assistant

Be part of Watertown Regional Medical Center, an acute-care hospital in southeastern Wisconsin that consistently earns national awards for its high-quality care from the likes of Becker's Hospital Review, Chartis, Healthgrades, The Leapfrog Group, and parent company ScionHealth. Watertown Regional's exceptional care across multiple specialty services is also reflected in its numerous accreditations and certifications. Join our team and grow your career in a hospital where everyday excellence meets or exceeds expectations.

Job Summary

The Certified Nursing Assistant – Psych provides supportive care to patients in a behavioral health unit under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. Responsibilities include assisting patients with activities of daily living, promoting safety through observation and redirection, supporting therapeutic interventions, and maintaining a secure and respectful environment for psychiatric patients.

Essential Functions

• Assists patients with personal care, hygiene, ambulation, feeding, and elimination needs
• Supports patients with psychosocial needs under supervision of the RN
• Provides safe patient positioning, transfer, and mobility support
• Documents intake/output, vital signs, weights, and patient behaviors in EMR
• Maintains clean and organized patient rooms and unit environments
• Answers call lights and responds to patient needs promptly and respectfully
• Participates in therapeutic activities, patient observation, and safety checks
• Assists in admission, transfer, and discharge procedures
• Applies and monitors restraints as directed and maintains documentation
• Transports patients to procedures and departments as needed
• Participates in crisis interventions and assists in de-escalation under RN direction
• Communicates effectively with the healthcare team, patients, and families
• Provides post-mortem care and assists in body transport as needed
• Adheres to infection control and safety protocols
• Maintains awareness of patient confidentiality and boundaries

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Strong communication, observation, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to remain calm and supportive in emotionally charged situations
• Basic knowledge of behavioral health conditions and care strategies
• Demonstrates respect for diverse backgrounds and experiences
• Proficient in electronic medical records and basic computer use
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team
• Must be able to stand/walk for long periods and lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds
• Committed to safety, professionalism, and quality patient care

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or Equivalent including education equivalent to completion of secondary school or demonstrated ability to perform the essential functions of the role. (Preferred)

Licenses/Certifications

• CNA - Certified Nursing Assistant in the state of practice Upon Hire (Required) and BCLS - Basic Life Support Like AHA or Red Cross Within Facility-Specified time frame (Required)

Experience

• 6 months experience in an acute care, long-term care, or behavioral health setting (Preferred) And Prior Experience in an acute care, long-term care, or behavioral health setting (Preferred)