Summary
This job involves escorting mental health patients to medical appointments outside the hospital, ensuring their safety and supervision, and providing general patient care under a nurse's guidance at Western State Hospital.
It requires organizing schedules, documenting patient progress, and using de-escalation techniques to support individuals with behavioral health challenges.
Ideal candidates are compassionate, organized professionals with experience in psychiatric settings and a commitment to helping vulnerable people.
Full Job Description
DSHS WSH Mental Health Technician 3 – Medical Escort
Western State Hospital is seeking professionals who have a passion for helping people with behavioral health challenges. We need your motivation and organizational skills to work with patients. You will provide patient care on a ward under the direction of a Registered Nurse.
The Medical Escort escorts patients to off-hospital grounds and medical appointments at the hospital's clinic. This role ensures patients are safe and supervision is provided during appointments.
Anticipated schedule:
Monday–Friday, 6:45 AM–3:00 PM. Flexibility is essential, as hospital needs may require adjustments to your schedule. You may be asked to arrive earlier or stay later based on business needs.
Some of what you'll do:- Provide client care to patients.
- Assist in preparing patients for appointments.
- Manage and coordinate patient inpatient and outpatient medical appointments.
- Ensure patients with referrals are scheduled and escorts are available for escort and transport.
- Document progress notes timely and accurately.
What we're looking for:- Knowledge of Behavioral Health/Recovery principles.
- Ability to use de-escalation skills and work independently with patients.
- Current Nursing Assistant Certified (NAC) or Nursing Assistant Registration (NAR).
- Strong communication and comprehension skills of both oral and written forms of communication.
Professionals with the following should apply:- A High School Diploma or GED.
- Registration as a Nursing Assistant (NAR) or Nursing Assistant Certification (NAC) in Washington State is required.
- Three years of experience in a psychiatric or mental health setting.
Please note: Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs. Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
Questions? Email
vincent.hamilton@dshs.wa.gov and reference 01263.
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Additional Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

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