Job Description

Under the supervision of a licensed registered nurse and/or licensed practical nurse, the Psychiatric Assistant performs a wide range of nursing care activities and related services to support the personal and psychosocial needs of patients. The role focuses on maintaining a safe, therapeutic environment while delivering compassionate care. Competency in age-specific care, Basic Life Support (BLS), and Violence Prevention is required.

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide personal care and comfort to patients, including proactive rounding every 15 minutes and responding to requests from patients, nurses, physicians, and families
• Assist with patient admissions and discharges, including searches, recording valuables, and taking vital signs
• Document all patient care activities in the electronic medical record, including procedures, teaching, vital signs, intake/output, and rounding
• Provide care for patients under constant observation, including documentation in restraint flow sheets and securing personal belongings
• Assist with meal safety, monitor silverware, and help patients complete menus
• Perform clerical duties such as entering work orders, ordering supplies, providing meal relief, entering lab orders, using the paging system, and operating phones
• Conduct environmental safety rounds, checking for locked doors, fire extinguisher status, department cleanliness, and removal of unsafe items

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Completion of a Nursing Assistant Program required

Experience

• Experience in a healthcare setting preferred

Licensure/Certification

• Maryland Nursing Assistant certification required
• BLS (CPR) certification in compliance with policy required

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Strong communication skills
• Ability to relate effectively to individuals from diverse backgrounds

Caring for Our Team
We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the 1st of the month following date of hire, along with life insurance, & short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.

Happy to Help

At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.