Veterans Mental Health Nursing Assistant: 1:1 Care

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a Mental Health Nursing Assistant to provide direct, recovery‑oriented support to Veterans in inpatient and domiciliary settings.

You will assist with daily living activities, monitor changes in behavior and health, and contribute to treatment planning in a safe, therapeutic environment. Responsibilities include basic nursing procedures, 1:1 monitoring, crisis intervention, and collaboration with treatment teams.

Qualifications

• Direct care for Veterans with complex physical or behavioral needs, assisting ADLs.
• Observe and report changes in mood, behavior, skin, appetite or cognition.
• Submit required transcripts or documentation to verify basic qualification requirements.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care for Veterans with complex physical or behavioral needs, supporting ADLs such as hygiene, ambulation, dressing, and meals.
• Observe and report subtle changes in mood, behavior, skin condition, appetite, or cognition, taking action within assigned scope.
• Perform nursing procedures including tracheostomy care, suctioning, I&O monitoring, enemas, catheterization, colostomy care, and simple dressings.
• Support therapeutic groups and treatment goals, promote independence and structured engagement, and participate in planning meetings.
• Provide continuous observations (including 1:1) and intervene during behavioral crises.

Skills

ADL assistance

Observation

1:1 monitoring

Behavior change detection

Education

Nursing assistant education/certification

GS-4/5 qualification transcripts

Tools

Tracheostomy care

Suctioning

Enemas

Catheterization

Colostomy care

Job description

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a Mental Health Nursing Assistant to provide direct, recovery‑oriented support to Veterans in inpatient and domiciliary settings.

You will assist with daily living activities, monitor changes in behavior and health, and contribute to treatment planning in a safe, therapeutic environment. Responsibilities include basic nursing procedures, 1:1 monitoring, crisis intervention, and collaboration with treatment teams.