Nursing Assistant-BERT

Brown-University-Health-1; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 34,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University Health in Providence, RI is seeking a CNA–BERT to provide high-quality patient care and serve as a responder for Code BERT activations, supporting patients and staff during behavioral crises. Under RN supervision, you will perform general CNA duties and use de-escalation techniques, assisting with safety, documentation, and collaboration with the BERT team.

The role requires RI/MA CNA certification, BLS, and de-escalation training; day shift 7a-7p with equal opportunity

Qualifications

• Current Rhode Island or Massachusetts certification as a Nursing Assistant.
• Certification in 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

De-escalation techniques

Crisis intervention

Education

Nursing Assistant certification (RI or MA)

BLS certification

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Computer proficiency

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