About the job
The Mental Health Worker embodies the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Medicine, adhering to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program while complying with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines, and regulatory and accreditation standards.
Under the guidance of a registered nurse (inpatient) or licensed health professional (outpatient), you will assist in delivering care to individuals and groups of patients, contributing to the maintenance of a therapeutic environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in the initial and ongoing identification of patient problems and strengths.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to aid in the development of treatment plans.
- Communicate patient status effectively to the registered nurse or licensed health professional.
- Provide individual and group interventions to meet patient needs as directed by a licensed health professional.
- Facilitate or co-facilitate supportive groups as determined by management.
- Support patients in developing social, daily living, and problem-solving skills through individual, group, or milieu interactions.
- Respond to and follow through with patient needs and requests.
- Assist patients in nurturing their relationships with others in the milieu.
- Promote a milieu conducive to communication and cooperation among patients, families, visitors, and staff.
- Recognize personal role limitations and utilize appropriate clinical resources.
- Document timely, accurate, and appropriate clinical information in patients’ medical records.
- Assist in creating a safe, secure, and comfortable environment for patients, their significant others, and staff.
- Adhere to established policies, procedures, and standards for patient care.
Additional Functions
- May assist patients with self-care routines, including bathing, dressing, oral/facial hygiene, and toileting.
- Utilize established communication channels for resolving work-related problems.
- Understand and model “Patient First” standards.
- Participate in unit meetings and Psychiatry Open Forums.
- Assist in orienting new mental health workers and other staff as appropriate.
- Assume responsibility for meeting mandatory requirements.
- Identify performance areas for improvement and pursue relevant educational opportunities.
- Engage in departmental in-service training, Grand Rounds, workshops, and seminars.
- Share acquired knowledge with other staff members.
- Participate in Quality Improvement activities.
- Take initiative to assist with the overall unit workload.
- Identify and communicate issues and trends to management and make recommendations for improvement.