Mental Health Technician

Job Description

The Mental Health Technician is a key player in the delivery of care based on the recovery model. This position works under the direction of a registered nurse to provide direct patient care. This position is responsible for supervising, interacting, assisting, and supporting specific age groups of psychiatric patients. The technician in this role helps maintain therapeutic relationships and lives the values to promote a positive therapeutic environment and patient experience. The Technician assists in the implementation of recovery plans. This position is responsible for routine and assigned tasks and helping the nursing staff with patient care activities.

Responsibilities

Performs all responsibilities/duties required by the mental health unit as defined in the scope of service, to ensure that the unique needs of the patient are addressed. Performs safety rounds to ensure that the patients and environment are safe. During rounds, the tech is responsible for observing the patient's appearance/behaviors and documenting the patient status, including reporting abnormal findings to the registered nurse. Identifies patient needs and functions as part of the treatment team to develop and implement a plan of care that is individualized to the patient preferences and needs. Responsible for development and facilitation of mental health technician-led groups. This includes documentation of groups in the electronic health record. Utilizes Crisis Prevention Intervention techniques to recognize escalating behavior and de-escalates appropriately. This includes responding to escalating events and using interventions to maintain patient and unit safety. Maintains up to date and accurate documentation of care provided to ensure the integration of information for use by the healthcare team, to ensure quality care. Analyzes problems effectively and demonstrates appropriate courses of actions and solutions. Demonstrates proper judgment in decision-making skills when necessary. Provides person centered care offering choices, engaging patients in the treatment process, fosters optimism and hope in others. Serves as a role model for others in managing behaviors and in de-escalation of patients. Responsible for managing the therapeutic milieu and redirecting behaviors as needed. Maintains current knowledge/certification.Assist in other duties as assigned to support the operational needs of the department and organization. May be required to remain on campus immediately before, during, and after severe weather and/or disasters.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or General Education Degree required. Bachelors Degree preferred.
• One year experience in psychiatric care or healthcare related position OR currently enrolled in college level courses related to nursing, psychology or healthcare related field.
• BLS through American Heart Association. Non-violent Crisis Intervention (CPI) obtained during Orientation.

About Us

Baptist Health Care is a not-for-profit health care system committed to improving the quality of life for people and communities in northwest Florida and south Alabama. The organization includes three hospitals, four medical parks, Andrews Institute for Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine, and an extensive primary and specialty care provider network. With more than 4,000 team members, Baptist Health Care is one of the largest non-governmental employers in northwest Florida.