What are the responsibilities and job description for the CNA - PRN Day Shifts position at BEHAVIORAL HEALTH MANAGMENT LLC?
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Department: Nursing/MHT
Reports To: ACNO
Location: Psychiatric Hospital Setting
Position Summary
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a psychiatric hospital provides direct patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. This role supports both the medical and behavioral health needs of patients in an inpatient psychiatric setting. The CNA ensures patient safety, monitors physical health status, assists with activities of daily living (ADLs), and promptly
Key Responsibilities
Patient Monitoring & Vital Signs
Obtain and accurately measure vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, respirations, temperature, oxygen saturation) per physician or nursing orders.
Document vital signs promptly and accurately in the electronic medical record (EMR).Identify abnormal vital signs and immediately notify the assigned nurse.
Recheck abnormal vital signs as directed and document findings.
Monitor patients for signs of physical or psychiatric deterioration and report changes promptly.
Blood Glucose Monitoring (Accu-Chek)
Perform point-of-care blood glucose testing (Accu-Chek) as ordered.
Accurately document blood glucose results in the EMR.
Immediately inform nursing staff of abnormal readings per facility protocol.
Recheck abnormal blood glucose levels as directed and document accordingly.
1:1 Observation & Safety Monitoring
Provide continuous 1:1 observation for patients requiring close supervision due to medical instability, suicide risk, behavioral concerns, or cognitive impairment.
Maintain patient safety at all times, ensuring a therapeutic and secure environment.
Observe and document patient behaviors per facility policy.
Report any safety concerns, self-harm behaviors, or escalating psychiatric symptoms immediately to nursing staff.
Patient Rounding & General Care
Conduct routine patient rounding per unit protocol.
Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, grooming, toileting, ambulation, feeding, and positioning.
Ensure patient rooms are clean, organized, and free from safety hazards.
Assist with admissions, transfers, and discharges as directed.
Provide emotional support while maintaining professional boundaries in a behavioral health setting.
Promote patient dignity, privacy, and respect at all times.
Documentation & Communication
Maintain accurate, timely, and thorough documentation in the EMR.
Communicate effectively with nurses and interdisciplinary team members regarding patient status.
Participate in shift reports and safety huddles as assigned.
Follow all hospital policies, procedures, and infection control guidelines.
Qualifications
Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification in good standing.
Current CPR/BLS certification required.
Experience in behavioral health or psychiatric settings preferred.
Knowledge of suicide precautions, de-escalation techniques, and trauma-informed care preferred.
Ability to recognize medical and psychiatric emergencies and respond appropriately.
Strong observation, communication, and documentation skills.
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand, walk, and lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to assist with patient transfers and mobility.
Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.
Work Environment
Inpatient psychiatric hospital setting.
Exposure to patients experiencing acute psychiatric symptoms and potential behavioral crises.
Requires adherence to safety protocols and therapeutic communication practices.
Core Competencies
Patient Safety
Attention to Detail
Therapeutic Communication
Team Collaboration
Crisis Awareness
Compassionate Patient Care
This position plays a critical role in supporting both the physical and mental health stability of patients in a psychiatric inpatient setting.