Under the general direction of a Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) provides direct, non-clinical support to patients requiring observation who may be experiencing mental health or behavioral challenges.
BHAs work collaboratively with clinical staff to ensure a safe, therapeutic environment while maintaining patient dignity and upholding Brown University Health’s values.
All employees are expected to model the organization’s core values:
- Compassion
- Accountability
- Respect
- Excellence
In addition, employees must demonstrate the core success factors that guide teamwork and performance:
- Instill Trust and Value Differences
- Patient and Community Focus
- Collaborate
Receive patient handoff/report prior to beginning observation duties
Conduct continuous or intermittent patient observation as assigned
Promptly report changes in patient condition to nursing or clinical staff
Monitor and document patient behavior, mood, and activity per established protocols
Maintain constant attention on assigned patient(s), minimizing distractions
Assist with activities of daily living, including:
- Hygiene
- Meals
- Mobility (as directed by nursing staff)
Engage patients in a compassionate, respectful manner, including:
- Therapeutic interaction
- Recreational activities aligned with training
Utilize approved verbal de-escalation techniques to maintain safety
Maintain required certifications:
- De-escalation and restraint training (initial and annual recertification)
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Safe patient handling training
Participate in staff development, supervision, and team meetings
Maintain a safe, clean, and hazard-free environment
Ensure compliance with:
- Patient rights
- Patient privacy and confidentiality standards
- Hospital safety policies and procedures
Perform additional duties as assigned
Education:
- High school diploma or equivalent (required)
Experience:
- Prior patient care experience or education in a human services field (preferred)
- Active participation in patient care activities
- Ability to assist with activities of daily living and patient management
- Physical capability to safely support patients as trained
Independent Action:
- Works collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams including nurses, social workers, therapists, and physicians to support treatment goals
Supervisory Responsibilities:
$21.09-$22.04
Rhode Island Hospital - 593 Eddy Street Providence, Rhode Island 02903
0700-1930; every other weekend/holiday
Day
No
International Brotherhood Teamsters
Brown University Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment.
