JOB SUMMARY
Under direct supervision, assists in providing direct patient care to
a population with a wide range of psychiatric difficulties. Provides
routine research support.
PRIMARY DUTIES
1. Assists an interdisciplinary team in assessing patient's needs
and skills.
2. Observes, records and interprets changes in the behavioral and
emotional status of patients.
3. Assists in devising a plan for the development of the patient's
physical, intellectual, and emotional capabilities. Coordinates
implementation of recreation, wellness, and other similar
activities.
4. Assists in the administration of experimental drugs. Observes,
records, and assists in the analysis of patient behavior
subsequent to drug administration.
5. Assists in implementing and monitoring nursing care plans.
6. Determines appropriate interventions at critical points during
the treatment process.
7. Assists in securing, coordinating, and monitoring services needed
to carry out individual programs for patients.
8. Assesses the environmental needs of the unit and recommends
and/or initiates appropriate action in coordination with the
professional staff.
9. Serves as a liaison with patient's families by providing
education and support services.
10. Assists in the compilation, analysis, and reporting of research
data.
11. May provide guidance and direction to other staff.
Note: The intent of this list of primary duties is to provide a
representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities of
this job. Incumbents perform other related duties assigned. Specific
duties and responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION: Associate of Arts degree in any of the following areas of
study: psychology, human development, social work, special education,
counseling, activity therapy, mental health, or developmental
disabilities.
EXPERIENCE: Three years providing direct patient care in a psychiatric
setting.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
General knowledge of interdisciplinary treatment methodologies and
therapeutic techniques in the treatment of the mentally/emotionally
ill. General knowledge of and ability to assist with treatments and
operate medical equipment. Ability to assess the physical,
intellectual, and emotional assets and deficits of patients. Ability
to plan, coordinate, and monitor direct care and other support
services. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to write reports and maintain up to date and accurate records.
Ability to perform extensive standing and walking. Ability to lift and
position patients. Ability to provide guidance and training to others.
OTHER: Except for qualifications established by law, additional
related experience and formal education in which one has gained the
knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the
work of the job class may be substituted for the education or
experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 college
credits being equivalent to one year of experience.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Candidates selected for employment may be subject to medical inquiries
and/or medical examination to determine the ability to perform the
job. Employees in this job class may be subject to pre-employment and
random drug testing. Overtime, weekend, on-call, and shift work may be
required in some positions.