Nursing Assistant- Behavioral Emergency Response Team

Brown University Health; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 34,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University Health seeks a CNA–BERT to deliver high-quality patient care and support in acute care and behavioral health settings, under RN supervision. This role acts as a designated responder for Code BERT activations, aiding staff during escalating behavioral events through early intervention and crisis management.

The CNA–BERT works with the interdisciplinary team, performs standard CNA duties, and maintains documentation in the electronic health record while following infection

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.
• Observe and report changes in patient condition, behavior, and safety concerns.
• Respond to Code BERT activations and participate in de-escalation.
• Document care accurately in the electronic health record.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary BERT team and restore safe care environment.

Skills

Basic computer proficiency

Education

CNA certification (RI/MA)

BLS certification

De-escalation and restraint education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Registered Nurse and within hospital and department policies and procedures, the CNA–BERT provides high-quality patient care and support and serves as a designated responder for Code Behavioral Emergency Response Team (BERT) activations, supporting patients and staff during escalating behavioral events through early intervention, de-escalation, and crisis management.

DEFINITION:

A CNA–BERT is a Certified Nursing Assistant trained in behavioral crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques. This role functions as both a nursing assistant and a primary responder during Code BERT activations, supporting safe, coordinated behavioral response efforts.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

General CNA Duties:

• 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

BERT-Specific Duties:

• 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

MINIMUM 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

WORKING ENVIORNMENT:

Works in acute care and behavioral health settings. Requires prolonged standing, walking, and response to unpredictable patient behaviors and behavioral crises, including physical intervention consistent with de-escalation and restraint training protocols.

INDEPENDENT ACTION:

Works under the supervision of the Registered Nurse and collaborates with the interdisciplinary team during BERT activations. Exercises judgment within scope and seeks guidance for complex situations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None.

Pay Range:

$24.36-$24.84

Brown University Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment.

Location:

Rhode Island Hospital - 593 Eddy Street Providence, Rhode Island 02903

Work Type:

7a-7p

Work Shift:

Day

Driving Required:

No

Union:

International Brotherhood Teamsters