Mental Health Specialist, JN Observation, PD, Nights

Job Title: Mental Health Specialist

Location: Jackson North Medical Center

Department: Observation Unit

Status: Per Diem, Nights

Shift: 7pm to 7:30am

About the Role:
The Mental Health Specialist (MHS) is an essential member of the care team, working under the supervision of a registered nurse to provide support and services to mentally ill patients in a patient care treatment facility.

Key Responsibilities:
Perform patient care observations and duties as directed by the RN and outlined in hospital policies and procedures.
Manage patient activities and provide patient education.
Assist in maintaining a therapeutic milieu in accordance with policy.
Supervise patient activities in the milieu and respond/intervene per protocol.
Utilize verbal de-escalation techniques and coping strategies to reduce the risk of patients' disruptive and aggressive behavior.
Identify behaviors that may require seclusion, restraint, or other clinical intervention, and escalate to the primary nurse or nurse leader.
Participate in the restraint and seclusion of patients according to hospital policy and procedures.
Escort and monitor patients during fresh air breaks.
Perform various tasks associated with generalized patient care, including vital signs, feeding, mobility, personal hygiene, bathing, dressing, bed making/linen changes, and assisting the healthcare team with preparing supplies.
Requirements:
0-3 years of related experience.
High School diploma required.
Basic knowledge of psychiatric, psychological, and medical terminologies and their clinical implications for treatment of patients.
Ability to analyze, organize, and prioritize work accurately while meeting multiple deadlines.
Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with critical thinking and professional composure.
Knowledge and skill in use of job-appropriate technology and software applications.
Credentials:
Valid Florida Behavioral Health Technician Certification preferred.
American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required upon hire with at least 6 months validity and maintenance at JHS for the duration of employment.
Working Conditions:
Jobs in this group require extended standing or walking. Must be able to carry objects weighing 21 to 50 pounds. Able to lift or move objects weighing 51 to 100 pounds with the use of appropriate devices.

Frequent interaction with a diverse population, including team members, providers, patients, insurance companies, and other members of the public.

Function is subject to inside environmental conditions, with occasional outdoor exposures.