Behavioral Health Technician (Part-Time Days)

Position Summary

The Behavioral Health Technician (Part-Time Days) works under the supervision of a Registered Nurse to provide compassionate, individualized care that supports patients in achieving their highest level of physical, emotional, and mental wellness. This role is responsible for assisting with direct patient care, monitoring patient safety, supporting therapeutic interventions, and performing clinical and administrative duties essential to the operation of the unit.

The Behavioral Health Technician serves as an integral member of the interdisciplinary care team and demonstrates behaviors consistent with Mercy's Mission, Values, and Service Standards.

Essential Responsibilities

Patient Care & Therapeutic Support

• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, nutrition, mobility, ambulation, and repositioning.
• Observe and document patient condition, behaviors, mood, and participation in treatment activities.
• Take and record vital signs, weights, intake/output, meal consumption, safety checks, and other patient observations according to policy and provider orders.
• Build positive therapeutic relationships with patients through respectful and compassionate interactions.
• Participate in patient admissions, transfers, and discharges, including securing and documenting personal belongings.
• Observe and promptly report changes in patient condition or unusual occurrences to licensed staff.
• Reinforce established safety plans and encourage patient engagement in treatment goals.
• Assist with patient monitoring and documentation during restraint situations under the direction of licensed staff.

Safety & Risk Management

• Maintain a safe environment through adherence to infection prevention and control practices.
• Follow all patient safety protocols, including patient identification, fall precautions, and restraint management procedures.
• Utilize de-escalation techniques during crisis situations.
• Adhere to patient rights, confidentiality standards, HIPAA regulations, and all organizational safety policies.
• Conduct equipment safety checks and report malfunctioning equipment.
• Complete incident documentation according to established procedures.

Coordination of Care

• Collaborate effectively with nurses, providers, and interdisciplinary team members to support patient care plans.
• Prioritize patient needs and respond appropriately to changing conditions.
• Participate in shift handoff communication to ensure continuity of care.
• Assist in quality improvement initiatives designed to enhance patient outcomes and patient experience.
• Ensure adequate supplies are available to support daily patient care activities.

Communication & Documentation

• Accurately document patient information, observations, and care activities within the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Communicate clearly and professionally with patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare team members.
• Provide objective patient updates during shift reports.
• Answer basic questions from caregivers and families when appropriate and licensed staff are unavailable.

Unit Operations & Administrative Support

• Perform unit-specific computer and clerical functions.
• Answer telephones, call lights, and safety alerts.
• Assemble, update, maintain, and organize patient records and charts.
• Assist with routine unit operations and support tasks as needed.
• Operate patient care equipment such as vital signs monitors, blood glucose monitoring devices, and EKG machines.

Leadership & Professional Development

• Assist in orienting and training new coworkers.
• Complete required orientation and competency documentation.
• Demonstrate flexibility in work assignments and departmental needs.
• Lead or co-lead therapeutic groups and community activities as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Completion of a Nurse Assistant Training Program preferred.

Experience

• Previous experience in Behavioral Health, Psychiatry, Mental Health Services, Direct Support Professional (DSP), or a related healthcare setting preferred.

Certifications/Licensure

• Relevant healthcare certifications preferred.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described below represent those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this role:

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and patient assistance activities.
• Frequent hand coordination and computer/data entry.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds from floor to waist level.
• Ability to exert up to 40 pounds of force when assisting patients or handling equipment.
• Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency or crisis situations.

Why Join Mercy?

At Mercy, we are committed to providing exceptional patient care while fostering a culture of compassion, dignity, and respect. As a Part-Time Day Shift Behavioral Health Technician, you will play a vital role in supporting patients through their healing journey while working alongside a dedicated team committed to making a difference every day.