Mental Health Specialist

Company: Partners Healthcare System
Location: Boston
Posted on: June 12, 2021

Job Description:

Position Reports to: APS Clinical Nurse Manager

General Summary/Overview Statement:

Under the direction of the Registered Nurse, the Mental Health Specialist assists in the care of patients experiencing a wide range of acute psychiatric conditions in the APS area of the Emergency Department.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

The Mental Health Specialist is a member of the multidisciplinary team who, under the supervision of the Registered Nurse, performs a variety of duties on the milieu that include direct patient care, patient monitoring, and coordination of and execution of milieu groups. Monitors the tone and activity of the unit to ensure a safe environment. Provides age-appropriate care including basic ADL's for adult, geriatric, and pediatric patients, following Nursing policies, procedures and protocols. Utilizes de-escalation strategies to assist patients with self-regulation within the mission of reduction of restraints. Develops relationships with patients using therapeutic communication to establish trust and safety.

• Assists in the admission of patients.
• Provides patients with basic information about the unit, and assists in gathering and documentation of patient information.
• Gathers, secures, and documents location of patients' personal property.
• Maintains patient confidentiality.

• Communicates in a respectful manner.

• Assists with meeting patient direct care and comfort needs (i.e., assists with basic ADL's and takes vital signs).
• Responds to patient and family requests, including answering call lights in a timely manner.
• Monitors patients for safety and reports changes immediately to the Registered Nurse.
• Accurate and timely documentation of patient information.
• Participates in efforts to problem solve and respond to psychosocial needs of patients and families.

• Provides helpful resources to the patient and supports as indicated.

• Meets with patients daily as assigned by the Registered Nurse to provide therapeutic and supportive counseling.
• Establishes therapeutic relationships with patients, maintaining professional boundaries.

• Identifies patient behaviors that contribute to the development of a crisis; utilizing non-verbal and verbal techniques to de-escalate crisis situations.

• Focuses patients on specific treatment issues.
• Provides 1:1 observation to patients at risk for harm to self or others, or elopement.

• Provides safe and compassionate to care to patients that require seclusion and/or restraints according to hospital policy.

• Participates in multi-disciplinary treatment team meetings.
• Active milieu assessment while assigned to patient checks; particularly attuned to safety concerns.

• Contributes to an environment that is supportive, integrated and empowering for trauma survivors.

• Contributes to the coordination of care along the continuum.

8.1. Facilitates patient information across departments, systems, and other facilities.

8.2. Assist patients with completion of intake interviews with facilities.

• Work effectively and respectfully with all members of the health care team.

In collaboration with the Clinical Nurse Manager, identifies and meets learning needs. Completes annual required training and updates knowledge through periodic in-service programs.

Skills & Competencies Required

• Ability to multi-task and work efficiently in a busy environment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Computer proficiency
• Excellent customer service skills

Licenses, Certifications, and/or Registrations:

None

Education:

High School diploma or GED required

Prefer candidates with some college credits in behavioral health sciences

Experience:

Prior experience providing direct care to patients in a behavioral health care setting preferred

every other weekend requirement and day/night rotating shift.

Licenses, Certifications, and/or Registrations:

None

Education:

High School diploma or GED required

Prefer candidates with some college credits in behavioral health sciences

Experience:

Prior experience providing direct care to patients in a behavioral health care setting preferred

Keywords: Partners Healthcare System, Boston , Mental Health Specialist, Other , Boston, Massachusetts