CNA Psych Unit - FT/Nights

Watertown Regional Medical Center; Watertown (WI); On-site; USD 33,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

ScionHealth is seeking a Certified Nursing Assistant – Psych to provide supportive care in a behavioral health unit under licensed nursing supervision. You will assist patients with daily living activities, support safety, and help maintain a therapeutic environment.

Responsibilities include documenting vitals and intake in the EMR, assisting with admissions and discharges, and participating in crisis interventions as directed by an RN. Strong communication and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent; ability to perform essential functions.
• CNA certification required; BCLS certification within required timeframe.
• Experience in acute, long-term, or behavioral health settings preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist patients with activities of daily living and mobility.
• Support safety and observation in a behavioral health unit.
• Document intake/output, vitals and behaviors in EMR.
• Assist with admissions, transfers and discharges under RN supervision.
• Maintain patient rooms and participate in crisis interventions when needed.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team.
• Adhere to infection control and privacy standards.

Skills

Clear communication

Observation skills

Interpersonal skills

Calm under pressure

Behavioral health care basics

Teamwork

EMR proficiency

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

EMR system

Basic computer use

Job description

Description

At ScionHealth, we empower our caregivers to do what they do best. We value every voice by caring deeply for every patient and each other. We show courage by running toward the challenge and we lean into new ideas by embracing curiosity and question asking. Together, we create our culture by living our values in our day-to-day interactions with our patients and teammates.

Job Summary

The Certified Nursing Assistant – Psych provides supportive care to patients in a behavioral health unit under the supervision of licensed nursing staff. Responsibilities include assisting patients with activities of daily living, promoting safety through observation and redirection, supporting therapeutic interventions, and maintaining a secure and respectful environment for psychiatric patients.

Essential Functions

• Assists patients with personal care, hygiene, ambulation, feeding, and elimination needs
• Supports patients with psychosocial needs under supervision of the RN
• Provides safe patient positioning, transfer, and mobility support
• Documents intake/output, vital signs, weights, and patient behaviors in EMR
• Maintains clean and organized patient rooms and unit environments
• Answers call lights and responds to patient needs promptly and respectfully
• Participates in therapeutic activities, patient observation, and safety checks
• Assists in admission, transfer, and discharge procedures
• Applies and monitors restraints as directed and maintains documentation
• Transports patients to procedures and departments as needed
• Participates in crisis interventions and assists in de-escalation under RN direction
• Communicates effectively with the healthcare team, patients, and families
• Provides post-mortem care and assists in body transport as needed
• Adheres to infection control and safety protocols
• Maintains awareness of patient confidentiality and boundaries

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Strong communication, observation, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to remain calm and supportive in emotionally charged situations
• Basic knowledge of behavioral health conditions and care strategies
• Demonstrates respect for diverse backgrounds and experiences
• Proficient in electronic medical records and basic computer use
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team
• Must be able to stand/walk for long periods and lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds
• Committed to safety, professionalism, and quality patient care

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or Equivalent including education equivalent to completion of secondary school or demonstrated ability to perform the essential functions of the role. (Preferred)

Licenses/Certifications

• CNA - Certified Nursing Assistant in the state of practice Upon Hire (Required) And
• BCLS - Basic Life Support Like AHA or Red Cross Within Facility-Specified time frame (Required)

Experience

• Minimum of six (6) months experience in an acute care, long-term care, or behavioral health setting preferred