Psychiatric Technician

Position Summary

Working under the direction of an RN and in compliance with the treatment plan, provides therapeutic care and monitors patients’ conditions. Assists patients in their daily activities and ensures a safe, clean environment.

Essential Functions

Observes patients’ behavior, listen to their concerns, and records their condition, observations and services performed. Leads patients in therapeutic and recreational activities. Assists with admitting, transporting and discharging patients. Monitors patients’ vital signs. Helps patients with activities of daily living, including eating and bathing.

Restrains patients who may become physically violent. Delivers compassionate support, attention, and assistance to patients and families. Ensures compliance with all health care regulations, including HIPAA and OSHA. Maintains safe and clean working environment and protects patients and employees by adhering to infection-control, hazardous waste and other policies and protocols.

Performs other related duties as required and directed Qualifications: Required Associates degree in human services field or science, or; Student currently enrolled in an accredited Nursing Program who has completed mental health clinical rotation, or; High school diploma with three years providing direct patient care on an inpatient psychiatric unit or residential setting, or; High school diploma with three years of relevant experience in human services (social services, law enforcement, community mental health, hospital, or criminal justice) or working as security officer in a hospital setting Preferred Previous experience working with persons with mental illness or substance abuse disorders Bachelor’s degree in human services field or science Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: A basic understanding of patient care, medical terminology, coding procedures, mental health, and appropriate interventions for psychiatric technician practice scope.

Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and customer service skills. Working knowledge of electronic medical health care record systems. Ability to manage patients with different types of personalities. Demonstrated ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and policy and procedures manuals.

Knowledge and skill with common office software applications. Working well in teams since many people are involved in patient care. Listening actively to patients to better understand what they are experiencing and to build stronger bonds. Remaining composed in unforeseen or emergency situations. Respecting patient confidentiality.

Following directions exactly as given.