Advice for CNA possibly applying for a Behavioral Health Technician position?

[LifesAJourney]

There is an opening at a hospital as a Behavioral Health Technician. My question to you all is, is this a plausible position for a female interested in nursing to pursue? Or, should I just continue working at a nursing home until a CNA position becomes available. This position requires working with individuals who have mental irregularities or are substance abuse users. I don't mind the psychological nature behind this work, since I am going to minor in psychology, but more concern about safety in the work environment. In the nursing home I currently work at, it is often difficult providing ADL and getting vitals for combative residents. For those who have worked in this position or know more about it, what percentage, if any, are the patients combative? Do you see an equal ratio of men and women in this area of work, or is it more slanted to one side to a degree?

Thanks!

[Thirdwatch]

I woul Wait for a CNA position.

[elkpark]

I have worked psych most of my career, and am currently working in an inpatient psych facility. We have large numbers of female CNAs who work as techs. The techs in psych settings do a lot less lifting, toileting, personal care, etc., than one would in an LTC setting. It's rare to have a client who is not ambulatory and self-care. The techs do a lot of talking with people, passing out meal trays, client laundry, escorting groups to the cafeteria and activity groups, etc. There's v. little hard physical labor involved. Even on our most acute unit (the sickest clients and highest security), the clients are rarely combative (they can be verbally unpleasant and even abusive, but things rarely get physical), and, when that does happen, there are plenty of staff available to assist. All of our staff also receive education/training in de-escalating situations to avoid tense situations deteriorating into physical aggression in the first place, and how to safely manage a situation when that happens.

A number of our techs/CNAs are currently in nursing school, or working on getting into nursing school. The techs I've worked with over the years, on different psych units, have enjoyed their jobs (for the most part), and would never consider taking a job in an LTC setting. I would encourage you to at least apply for the position and interview for it if you get the chance.

Best wishes!

[Thirdwatch]

The psych techs in my worksite are taking CNA positions. You can always try it.

[LifesAJourney]

Thanks for the input, especially you Elkpak! Now I feel more confident about this position. If I don't hear back from another position I applied for earlier, I will be applying to this one :)