Mental Health Technician at Bryan Health – Lincoln, Nebraska

SUMMARY

The Mental Health Technician acts as a paraprofessional member of the interdisciplinary treatment team, assisting in the care and treatment of psychiatric and/or chemically dependent patients. Under supervision of the nurse or counselor, provides supportive and behavioral direction as dictated by patient needs and treatment plan.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

*Commits to the mission, vision, beliefs and consistently demonstrates our core values.

*Observes and monitors patient behavior; communicates patient behavior patterns with other members of the treatment team.

*Assists with the coordination of patient activities and interacts with patients in order to maintain a therapeutic milieu; adapts approach to patients as needed and appropriate for age of patients served including children, adolescents, and adults.

*Escorts and transports patients to designated areas for daily activities; transports patients to off-campus therapeutic activities using hospital vehicle as assigned.

*Communicates pertinent patient information to the interdisciplinary treatment team, through written and verbal reports, in order to enhance treatment planning and describe progress.

*Provides emotional support to patients by listening and conveying appropriate information; answers patient and family questions; refers therapy or medical questions to counselor or RN; supports and provides patient direction in conjunction with the patient’s treatment plan.

*Assists staff nurse in performing patient care as directed including obtaining and recording height and weight and blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respirations.

*Provides close observation or one-to-one care, as directed by the RN, to prevent patients from wandering or potential injury.

QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or equivalency required. Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services or related field preferred. Prior experience with patient care, human services, youth, and adults with cognitive and emotional difficulties and medical documentation preferred. Must complete annual criminal background check and central registry check through child and adult protective services. Basic Life Support (CPR) certification required. Valid State of Nebraska driver’s license required. Verification and maintenance of responsible driving record per facility standards required.