Behavioral Health Attendant- Emergency Department

Behavioral Health Attendant (BHA) – Job Description

Summary

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

Key Responsibilities

• 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

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)

Experience:

• Prior patient care experience or education in a human services field (preferred)

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• 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

Additional Information

Independent Action:

• Works collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams including nurses, social workers, therapists, and physicians to support treatment goals

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None