Senior Forensic Care Associate

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services; Lakewood (WA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5% premium pay on-site 3+ days/week

Orca card provided for transportation

Job summary

DSHS WSH Forensic Care Associate 3 at Washington State Hospital provides direct nursing care under an RN, supporting patients with acute psychiatric and medical needs. The role emphasizes trauma-informed care and safety within a forensic center, aligned with the recovery model.

Key tasks include patient orientation, vitals, care per plan, de-escalation, and collaborative work with the RN and ward staff to ensure patient safety and recovery outcomes.

Qualifications

• Must hold current unencumbered Washington State Nursing Assistant Registration, Nursing Assistant Certified, or CMA certification.
• Three years' experience in a psychiatric or mental health setting.
• High School diploma or GED.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care and security to patients in the Forensic Services Unit under the direction of a Registered Nurse.
• Observe and document behaviors and changes in condition.
• Deliver care per treatment plan and de-escalate patients using therapeutic interventions.
• Escort and transfer patients between wards/living units.
• Order/stock supplies and PPE, manage patient funds and equipment checks.

Skills

Crisis de-escalation

Teamwork

Effective communication

Education

Nursing Assistant Registration / NA-C / CMA certifications

Tools

Metal detector

Patient lifting equipment

Job description

DSHS WSH Forensic Care Associate 3 at Washington State Hospital provides direct nursing care under an RN, supporting patients with acute psychiatric and medical needs. The role emphasizes trauma-informed care and safety within a forensic center, aligned with the recovery model.

Key tasks include patient orientation, vitals, care per plan, de-escalation, and collaborative work with the RN and ward staff to ensure patient safety and recovery outcomes.