Patient Care Technicians - Behavioral Health Tech

Patient Care Technician

The Patient Care Technician will work in a psychiatric unit. This unit has a total of 46 beds, divided into sections. One section is designated for triage and fast-tracking patients. Security is available in-house 24/7. The nurse-to-patient ratio varies. Certification requirements include BLS and CPI. Common diagnoses include severe mental illnesses and behavioral issues. Patients often have multiple comorbidities but are typically medically stable. Medically unstable patients are transferred out. The role requires experience in phlebotomy and 12 lead EKGs. Responsibilities include administering intramuscular injections and oral medications. Common medications include psychotropics such as Haldol, Zyprexa, and Ativan. During the day, there are three physicians available, and one physician and one resident at night. The charge nurse does not take a patient assignment but coordinates the unit and assists staff. PCTs have duties that include blood draws, 1:1 patient monitoring, and assistance with activities of daily living. Respiratory therapy is available 24/7 and can administer breathing treatments. Cardiac monitoring is overseen by Tele Techs, and RNs must identify major rhythm changes. X-ray and CT services are available, with PCTs tasked with transporting patients. PCTs conduct blood draws, and the unit requires every other weekend work. The uniform color is maroon red. Unit-specific orientation includes three weeks of training, with one week in the classroom and two weeks on the unit.