PCT (Patient Care Tech)

Unit Notes
Psych Tech

The Psychiatric Technician is an integral member of the Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Unit, providing direct patient care and clinical support under the supervision of registered nurses. This role ensures safety on the unit, engages patients in therapeutic activities, and supports children and adolescents with daily needs during their hospitalization. The Psychiatric Technician also performs clinical tasks such as phlebotomy, EKGs, and point-of-care testing as part of a trauma-informed, developmentally sensitive model of care.

Education, Training, & Experience

Required:
• High School Diploma or GED

MAB or CPI is accepted and one is required
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in nursing or psychiatric/behavioral healthcare in a high-volume, intensive care environment (or satisfactory equivalent)
• Graduate of a New York State-certified Patient Care Technician (PCT)
• Current BLS (Basic Life Support) certification
• Competency in performing VS, phlebotomy, EKG, and blood glucose monitoring
• Ability to engage with children and adolescents in a trauma-informed and developmentally appropriate manner

Preferred:
• Associate's Degree in psychology, human services, or a related field
• Prior experience working with youth in behavioral health, educational, or residential settings
• Experience in acute inpatient psychiatry or a Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP)
• Completion of a recognized crisis intervention training (e.g., CPI, TRUST, TCI, or equivalent)

Psych Tech requirements
• A high school diploma or G.E.D. is required, along with two years of full-time experience in nursing or psychiatric/behavioral health care within a high-volume, intensive care setting. Alternatively, a satisfactory combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. However, all candidates must possess a minimum of a high school diploma or G.E.D.
• Graduate of a State Certified PCT/PCA program
• Completion of and certified to perform vital signs, phlebotomy, EKGs and blood glucose monitoring
• Successful completion of an appropriate training program in the application and use of restraints and seclusion must be completed, ie CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute), Managing Assaultive Behavior for Healthcare Professionals (MAB)
• Basic Life Support

VivPost