Psychiatric Technician - Ithaca, NY, United States - Cayuga Medical Center

Description

Psychiatric Technician Job Description

We will deliver the highest quality health care in partnership with our community, one person at a time.


Department:
Behavioral Service Unit


Job Title:
Psychiatric Technician


Job Summary:

Psychiatric Technicians are responsible for caring for patients who are severely developmentally disabled and need intensive care as well as are undergoing rehabilitation for drug and alcohol addiction and Patients whose illnesses make them disoriented, uncooperative, or violent, patients whose illnesses make them disoriented, uncooperative, or violent.

Psychiatric technicians work as part of a medical team, under the direction of nurses and alongside other healthcare professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurses, social workers, counselors, and therapists.

Because they have such close contact with patients, psychiatric technicians can have a great deal of influence on patients' outlook and treatment.

Psychiatric technicians and aides may spend much of their shift on their feet.

Job Responsibilities:
(Please limit this to 10 core responsibilities - as opposed to a total list of tasks)

• Observe patients' behavior, listen to their concerns, and record their condition
• Help with admitting and discharging patients
• Monitor patients' vital signs, such as their blood pressure
• Help patients with activities of daily living, including eating and bathing
• Assist in restraining patients who may become physically violent
• Share their observations with members of the treatment team, including the Unit Manager, Team Leader and/or other team members as appropriate

Requirements

Education:

Associates Degree from an Accredited College or University in psychology or related field; Bachelor's degree or 5 years' experience preferred, successful completion of TCI within three (3) months of hire, BLS certification required.

Experience:
At least 3 years' experience in a mental health field required, experience in mental health field strongly preferred.


Licensure:

Physical Requirements:

Audio and visual acuity and physical dexterity to interact appropriately with patients, peers, staff, and outside customers/agencies; Ability to do long periods of standing, walking, bending, and stretching, and ability to change body position and motion quickly; Ability to lift and assist in lifting, utilizing appropriate body mechanics, without weight restriction; Ability to participate as a member of the team trained to physically subdue and restrain violent persons of all sizes and strength.

This activity includes, but is not limited to lifting, holding, straining, and running.