Mental Health Technician: Methodist Richardson Medical Center

Assists professional nursing personnel in the care of the patient in a manner that considers the safety, comfort, and therapeutic environment, assisting with the activities of daily living, taking vital signs and other indicated specimens or measures, documenting observations, assisting with groups, calls, and treatment planning as needed to contribute to the smooth running of the unit. Will admit patients to the unit by completing all non-clinical paperwork with the patient. Demonstrates the knowledge, skills, understanding and ability to care for patients of all indicated age groups; is sensitive to the diverse and unique needs of patients based on age, sex, race, and culture.

• Conducts and documents needed searches, sharps monitoring, and patient observations as assigned. Reports behavior changes to the appropriate personnel.
• Maintains awareness of entire unit activity, supports unit program by firmly - yet respectfully - directing patients to unit activities in a timely fashion and responding to code situations within direction.
• Admits patients to the unit by completing all non-clinical admission paperwork.
• Answer phone calls, monitors visitors courteously, demonstrating customer service skills.
• Assists patients with the activities of daily care, sensitive to balancing care needs with encouraging independence.
• Assists physicians with examinations, procedures, and other processes related to direct patient care.
• Conducts and documents vitals, meal intake and assists with collection and delivery of specimens as needed.
• Provides support in unit groups led by therapy staff and facilities specified groups with completed competencies.
• Demonstrates an awareness of patient's treatment plan, reviewing and documenting observations in keeping with the overall plan of care.
• Requests and orders supplies as necessary to keep materials on hand at all times.
• Provides clerical support to unit, which may include faxing, copying, entering charges, computer entry of order, etc.