Distinguishing Features of the Class: Under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse and Clinical Coordinator, the Junior Nursing Aide provides direct observation of patients and participates as a member of the treatment team in creating and maintaining a therapeutic environment. Responsibilities include providing support for the patient, providing basic physical patient care, assisting staff in unit functions and interacting with all members of the health care team. Supervision is not a responsibility of this position. Does related work as required.

Examples of Work: (Illustrative Only)

Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, performs direct patient observation and provides basic physical care;

Observes and records general condition of patient;

Obtains urine, sputum, stool, fractional urine and 24-hour urine specimens and performs hemoccult and sugar and acetone tests;

Notifies Registered Nurse of any changes, including increased confusion, restlessness, lethargy and non-responsiveness;

Identifies significant changes in patient’s clinical status and communicates to appropriate members of the treatment team;

Responds to emergency situations by securing assistance;

Assists in escorting patients to and from diagnostic tests and therapeutic services;

Meets patient need for comfort and safety by providing orientation to surroundings, including maintaining time-appropriate lighting and providing orienting stimuli as necessary;

Assists in general and medical care of patient, including admission and discharge procedures, obtaining vital signs, weights, collection of specimens, and eating, sleeping and hygiene needs;

Complies with policies and procedures of the facility to ensure that the patient’s equipment, supplies and personal belongings are protected;

Participates in the development and implementation of the multidisciplinary treatment plan, including preparation and care for patients receiving specialized treatments administered by physician or professional nurse;

Maintains general cleanliness of physical area;

Maintains a safe and therapeutic environment by enforcing program rules, regulations and limits.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Attributes: Good knowledge of accepted standards of caring for and comforting the sick, disabled, injured or others requiring mental health or personal assistance; good knowledge of entry-level medical and psychiatric terminology; skill in customer service as it relates to the delivery of care; skill in caring for and comforting patients who are sick, disabled, or injured; skill in directing the activities of patients, working under potentially stressful situations, and dealing with individual and critical situations in an effective manner; ability to observe and describe facts and events accurately and to prepare reports relating to patients of facilities activities; ability to maintain good interpersonal relationships with patients, co-workers and all member of the health care team; ability to follow oral and written instructions as well as to communicate patient information verbally and in writing; ability to work independently; computer literacy sufficient to perform the duties of the position; good judgment; tact; initiative; positive attitude; neatness; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Minimum Acceptable Training and Experience: There are no minimum requirements for this position.