MAJOR DUTIES: The CNA/MA provides shift coverage, medical management and case management of clients in the Involuntary Treatment Program. This position provides clinical services to agency patients. In providing these services, the incumbent performs the following duties:
Obtaining a wide range of information from prescribers and nurses about patient conditions, treatment plans, and suggested activities;Recording vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiration rate as requested by staff;Noting observations of patient behavior, including complaints, or physical symptoms to nurses;Observing the patient and surroundings assists the nurse to assess the progress of the patient as well as any needs the patient might have for medical intervention. The certified nursing assistant will also observe and remove any potential hazards which could cause accidents; Perform tasks as assigned by the charge nurse including but not limited to taking vital signs, capturing residents’ weights, and collecting specimensStay up to date on CNA training and facility policy and procedureDocuments actions by completing forms, reports, logs, and records per ITA Unit PolicyProtects organization’s value by keeping patient information confidentialMaintains work operations by following policies and proceduresComplete all job duties while following required infection control procedures, including but not limited to thorough hand washing, proper use of personal protective equipment and proper disposal of soiled materials.Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities, reading professional publications, participating in professional organizations, and maintaining licensureComplete all requirements for in-service trainingDevelops treatment referrals;Infection control. Every medical employee is responsible for infection control, but because of the constant contact the CNA/MA has with patients, it is critical for the CNA/MA to know and follow proper protocol in avoiding the spread of germs and spores which transport disease; Intake paperwork;Provides discharge planning;Completes charting requirements per program policy;Other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION:
High school diploma or equivalent;Current MA, HCA, or CNA credential in the state of Washington;Must have a strong commitment to the right and ability of each person with a severe and persistent mental illness to live in normal community residences; work in market jobs; and have access to helpful, adequate, competent, and continuous supports and services.Be willing to seek to understand each individual’s unique circumstances and personal preferences and goals and incorporate them into the crisis response to help individuals regain a sense of control.Current CPR/1st Aid certification required;Have a strong understanding of recovery and resilience, the value of partnerships and individual choice, and the balance between protection from harm and personal dignity.Interest or experience in working with individuals who are difficult to engage and maintain in traditional behavioral health programs.Subscribe to the philosophy of cooperation and continuity across programs and of consideration and respect for individuals.Ability to work effectively with individuals displaying a wide range of unpleasant and/or bizarre behaviors.Have the ability to write detailed progress notes;Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing;Great attendance;Ability to work well with others.
GUIDELINES
This position requires that the incumbent obtain and maintain Washington State credentials through the Department of Health.
COMPLEXITY
The incumbent provides services to individuals who differ widely in age and socioeconomic status and who may possess a variety of chronic and serious social, behavioral and psychological problems. Strong clinical skills, sound judgment, and creativity are required to help implement and deliver treatment services that meet the complex needs of the participants in the Involuntary Treatment Program.
PERSONAL CONTACTS
Contacts are with the members of the treatment team, individuals, significant others and family, representatives of various community agencies specializing in the treatment of behavioral health and crisis, and related community representatives including hospital personnel, lawyers, probation officers, and other court officials. All personal contacts are carried out in accordance with federal and state laws dealing with the confidentiality of individual records.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position requires the incumbent to provide verbal crisis de-escalation and to respond to aggressive individuals with a calm and collaborative demeanor.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Working hours are spent indoors in offices or other meeting rooms or in the milieu. Supervision of outdoor activities, visits to community agencies, and participation in staff retreats and staff development activities may be required.
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR: Program Director