CNA Behavioral Crisis Responder

Brown Medicine; Cranston (RI); On-site; USD 34,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University Health is seeking a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) trained in behavioral crisis intervention to serve as a BERT responder at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, RI. The role supports patients and staff during escalating behavioral events through early intervention and crisis management.

Under RN supervision, the CNA-BERT provides high-quality care, documents in the EHR, and participates in post-event debriefs.

Qualifications

• Current Rhode Island or Massachusetts certification as a Nursing Assistant
• Certification in facility approved de-escalation and restraint education, or obtained within 3 months of hire
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• BLS certification required
• Demonstrated basic computer proficiency

Responsibilities

• Provide personal care and activities of daily living
• Perform duties in accordance with state regulatory standards
• Assist with mobility and rehabilitation activities as appropriate
• Identify and report unsafe conditions and remove unsafe equipment
• Observe and report changes in patient condition, behavior, and safety concerns
• Accurately and timely document care in the electronic health record
• Follow infection prevention and safety protocols and may function as a patient observer when assigned
• Respond to Code BERT activations initiated by any staff member
• Utilize verbal and non-verbal de-escalation techniques aligned with hospital protocols
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary BERT team
• Assist in identifying and mitigating environmental risk factors contributing to escalation
• Recognize when escalation to Code Gray is required and communicate to the team
• Participate in post-event debriefs and restoration of a safe care environment
• Maintain ongoing competency in facility approved restraint and seclusion training
• Provide care across the lifespan with cultural sensitivity

Skills

BLS certification

Basic computer skills

Education

Rhode Island or Massachusetts CNA certification

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Brown University Health is seeking a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) trained in behavioral crisis intervention to serve as a BERT responder at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, RI. The role supports patients and staff during escalating behavioral events through early intervention and crisis management.

Under RN supervision, the CNA-BERT provides high-quality care, documents in the EHR, and participates in post-event debriefs.