This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Under direct supervision, provides child, adolescent, or adult patient supervision in a treatment or educational milieu; assists in the maintenance of a safe, secure environment that enhances treatment and/or educational effectiveness. May operate in an in-patient/residential environment, or in an outreach environment, such as in homes, schools, and/or community agencies.
Duties and Responsibilities
Provides care to patients in a manner that promotes safety, comfort, and the therapeutic environment.
Assists patients with activities of daily living; attends to patient behavioral problems and provides assistance in crisis intervention, as needed.
Works with other members of a multi-disciplinary team in leading milieu activities such as current events groups, community meetings, goals groups, fitness groups, activities of daily living groups, and/or recreational activities, as appropriate to the specified patient population.
Charts patient observations, following prescribed procedures and standards.
Participates in the development and implementation of patient treatment programs.
Maintains confidentiality of patient records.
Transport patients to and from appointments, clinics, laboratories, and/or treatments, as and when appropriate.
May perform initial patient evaluations to determine treatment priorities; may take vital signs, weights, and urine, stool, and sputum specimens.
Attends and participates in group sessions, in-service education, and staff meetings.
Maintains established institutional policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance program, and safety, environmental and infection control standards.
Enhances professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in service meetings and workshops.
May provide liaison with patients, families of patients, or external facilities and agencies.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
High school diploma or GED; at least 6 months of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques.
Ability to interact with students, faculty and/or staff in a team environment.
Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
Knowledge of accreditation and certification requirements and standards.
Ability to observe, assess, and record symptoms, reactions, and progress.
Ability to provide therapeutic patient care to mentally, emotionally and/or developmentally disabled individuals.
Ability to understand and follow safety procedures.
Ability to assess and provide for the day-to-day needs of mentally, emotionally and/or developmentally disabled patients.
Ability to safely lift, and physically manipulate patients.
Skill in preparing and maintaining patient records.
Knowledge of patient care charts and patient histories.
Ability to communicate and interact with mental health professionals in a team environment.
Ability to make administrative and procedural decisions and judgments on sensitive, confidential issues.
Conditions of Employment
CPR Certified.
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.
Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
