Patient Safety Attendant - Behavioral Health

The Behavioral Health Safety Attendant is responsible for providing continuous observation and support to patients receiving care in a behavioral health setting, Emergency department, and inpatient nursing units. This role requires vigilant monitoring of patient behaviors, timely intervention in crisis situations, and collaboration with the clinical team to maintain a safe treatment environment. The Behavioral Health Safety Attendant plays a critical role in promoting patient well-being and preventing harm to self or others. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Patient Observation and Monitoring: o Maintain continuous visual observation of assigned patients, adhering to established protocols and safety guidelines. o Monitor patient behaviors, mood changes, and interactions with staff and other patients, documenting observations accurately and promptly reporting any concerns to the clinical team. o Ensure patient compliance with treatment plans, including medication administration, therapeutic activities, and personal care routines. 2. Crisis Intervention and De-Escalation: o Recognize signs of agitation, aggression, or distress in patients, implementing appropriate de-escalation techniques and interventions to prevent escalation of behavior. o Collaborate with the clinical team to develop and implement crisis management plans, following established protocols for managing behavioral emergencies and ensuring the safety of patients and staff. Updated June 2016 o Provide support and reassurance to patients during times of distress, utilizing therapeutic communication skills to promote a calm and supportive environment. 3. Safety and Risk Management: o Monitor the physical environment to identify and address potential safety hazards, such as unsafe objects or environmental risks, taking appropriate action to mitigate risks and prevent accidents or injuries. o Assist with the implementation of safety protocols and procedures, including restraint and seclusion protocols, as directed by the clinical and security team in accordance with regulatory requirements. o Participate in regular safety training sessions, Trauma informed training, mental health first aide and drills to enhance preparedness for emergency situations and promote a culture of safety within the facility. 4. Documentation and Communication: o Maintain accurate and timely documentation of patient observations, interventions, and incidents, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and confidentiality requirements. o Communicate effectively with members of the clinical team, providing relevant information and updates on patient status, behaviors, and responses to interventions. o Collaborate with other members of the healthcare team to ensure continuity of care and promote a multidisciplinary approach to patient treatment and support. MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED: Qualifications:  High school diploma or equivalent required.  Previous experience working in a behavioral health or psychiatric setting preferred.  Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.  Ability to remain calm and composed in stressful situations, with a compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care.  Basic knowledge of mental health disorders, crisis intervention techniques, and safety protocols.  Certification in CPR and basic life support (BLS) may be required. Updated June 2016 REQUIRED BEHAVIORAL SKILLS:  INTEGRITY: o A personal presence which is characterized by a sense of honesty and the willingness to do the right thing. o The ability to role model, inspire and motivate others to promote the philosophy, mission, vision, goals and values of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System.  COMPASSION: o A personal presence which is characterized by a sense of caring that is reflected in a high level of empathy and customer service with all that we come in contact. o Ability to manage conflict, consider other points of view, and offer alternative solutions without jeopardizing overall project direction and the ability to manage customer expectations.  ACCOUNTABILITY: o Demonstrated track record of ownership of situations, projects and issues. o Able to work autonomously and have a high degree of flexibility to adapt to changing projects, priorities and work volumes.  RESPECT: o Demonstrated ability to collaborate with a diverse population. o Treat all internal and external customers with a positive, proactive service orientation.  EXCELLENCE: o Strong communication and presentation skills with a proven ability to influence and lead teams to conclusion/decision making. o Proven ability to think strategically but also must be able to lead day-to-day tactical processes. o Demonstrated ability to manage and provide coaching and leadership on complex projects. o Must be able to lead and/or facilitate process improvement. We offer competitive pay, a generous benefit package and a reason to be proud of what you do, every day. Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is a not-for-profit, 190-licensed bed medical facility serving the health needs of more than 65,000 residents of Hutchinson, Reno County and the surrounding Central Kansas region. Our broad network of health care services extends deep into the community with Health-E-Quip, a home medical equipment supply store; Horizons Mental Health Center, a mental health services provider for surrounding counties; Hospice & HomeCare of Reno County, a medical and emotional support system for patients and their families in the final phase of a terminal illness or those needing home health care services for acute and chronic illness needs; and Sleep Diagnostic Center, a monitored sleep lab that identifies sleep disorders. Together, we will do everything possible to deliver an exceptional experience of care to every patient and family member who walks through our doors.