Behavioral Health Technician - Emergency Behavioral Health - 40hr

Connecticut Children's; Hartford (CT); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare system dedicated to children is seeking a Behavioral Health Technician for the Emergency Department. This role involves patient care, ensuring safety, and supporting the healthcare team in delivering quality care. Ideal candidates will have experience in pediatric emergency or psychiatric settings and relevant certifications. Join a passionate team committed to transforming children's health.

Qualifications

• Minimum one year of experience in a pediatric emergency department or psychiatric/behavioral health unit.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Registered Nurse in collecting patient data during intake.
• Maintain a safe and therapeutic environment for patients.
• Conduct rounds to observe and intervene in escalating situations.

Skills

Patient Care

Communication

Crisis Intervention

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

BLS CPR for Healthcare Providers

Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (CPI)

Job description

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Job Description

The Behavioral Health Technician promotes the safety, health, and comfort of patients, families, and staff in Zone C (Emergency Department) as related to the care of behavioral health/psychiatry patients in the Emergency department. The Behavioral Health Technician’s primary assignment is Zone C of the Emergency Department.

Responsibilities

1. Patient Care:

• Assist the Registered Nurse in collecting data of the patient during the intake/admission process for behavioral/psychiatric patients.
• Complete an inventory of personal items and appropriate wanding of patient/belongings upon arrival. Act as part of the care team conducting supervised clothing change. Secure items as per department standards and return them at the end of the visit.
• Communicate observations of the environment and patient indicators indicating escalation, increased risk for agitation, aggression, or self-harm.
• Maintain a safe and therapeutic environment while respecting boundaries for patients, families, and staff.
• Support visitation guidelines and policies as established by the department and hospital.
• May be assigned as an intermittent/roving patient care partner as determined by the primary RN and shift charge RN.
• Assist patients with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) such as bathing, dietary needs, escorting off the unit, etc.
• Complete patient documentation as appropriate.
• Obtain vital signs/weights as delegated by the RN. When no patients are in Zone C, support the main ED triage function as assigned.
• Assist in the application and removal of physical restraints when directed by the attending medical provider or primary nurse.
• Collaborate with the care team to:
• Contribute to safe observation levels,
• Assist in developing and implementing individualized care plans (vetted by licensed team members),
• Utilize de-escalation techniques effectively,
• Assist with procedural holds as directed,
• Obtain and test specimens (blood glucose, urine, swabs, etc.),
• Perform EKGs.

Operations & Environment:

• Conduct rounds to observe and intervene early in escalating situations.
• Ensure the department is free of hallway clutter and obstructions.
• Maintain the environment of care, complete safety checks, and restock supplies.
• Participate in post-restraint huddles.

Customer Service:

• Establish effective relationships with patients, families, staff, and external partners.

Quality:

• Be accountable for quality and safety initiatives.
• Demonstrate knowledge of age-specific needs from neonates to adolescents and apply cultural sensitivity.
• Support the organization’s mission, values, and goals.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and/or Experience:

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Minimum one year of experience in a pediatric emergency department or psychiatric/behavioral health unit.

License and Certifications:

• BLS CPR for Healthcare Providers, required upon hire and maintained current.
• Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (CPI) certification, required within 3 months of hire and maintained current.

About Us

Connecticut Children’s is Connecticut’s only health system dedicated entirely to children. With over 100 years of legacy, we offer specialized pediatric care across Connecticut and neighboring states. Our growth allows us to be a destination for specialized medicine, with a focus on research, education, community partnerships, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. We’re passionate about transforming children’s health and well-being as one team.