PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN

Job Specifications

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, performs responsible rehabilitative treatment and services in the treatment of the mentally ill; and does other work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Positions in this classification provide responsible rehabilitative and treatment services in clients' residences, shelters, and other community sites or facilities. Psychiatric Technicians work under the general supervision of physicians, psychiatrists, registered nurses or other qualified personnel. This classification is distinguished from other classifications in the health field in that training and experience in those skills necessary for the care of the psychiatrically or developmentally disabled is required.

TYPICAL TASKS

As a member of an interdisciplinary team, assists in the coordination of services, including planning, monitoring, documenting and conducting evaluations of services provided to mentally ill individuals; observes and records symptomotology, behavior and responses to treatment and reports significant changes or unusual occurrences to supervisors; administers medication orally, topically, hypodermically and intramuscularly, as prescribed by a physician or psychiatrist; participates in coordinated care planning, including implementation of service plans; provides crisis intervention; may act as a liaison to mental health facilities; utilizes behavioral and physical techniques to prevent injury to patients and others and to ensure a safe and therapeutic environment; attends meetings and in-service training as required; transports individuals to hospitals, clinics and community facilities; assists individuals with Activities in Daily Living (ADL) and facilitates or teaches personal skills needed to maintain stable community living.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Knowledge

• Working knowledge of the principles and practices used in the care, treat ment and rehabilitation of mentally ill individuals;
• Working knowledge of reactions, contra-indications and responses to common psychiatric medications;
• Working knowledge of methods and techniques of physical and chemical re straints;
• Working knowledge of medical and psychiatric terminology, sufficient to understand all instructions and orders.

Abilities

• Work effectively with mentally ill individuals.
• Administer treatment plans and medications as prescribed by a physician or psychiatrist.
• Observe and accurately record patient reactions and responses to treatment plans and medications.
• Recognize symptoms indicative of adverse patient reactions.
• Work effectively as a member of a treatment team.
• Apply a reasonable degree of physical exertion to control patient behavior.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with others.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Possess a valid California Psychiatric Technician License.
• Possess a California Class C driver license from the start of employment.
• Incumbents in this position must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends and holidays and on an on-call basis.

Bargaining Unit: General Representation
EEOC Job Category: 03
Occupational Grouping: 55
Worker's Comp Code: 0290