psych techs working with nurses?

[Infofreak411]

I know on the psych floor the psychiatric technicians work under a RN and LPN and assist them with different duties.. What actually is it that the techs do and assist the nurses with?

[Anonymous1257]

They're the ones actually on the floor with the patients 24hr a day. So mostly, they're the ones getting spit on, kicked and assaulted and doing most of the dirty work in general. They also do the expected tech duties like vitals, handing out meals, etc.

As a nurse you're #2 on the list for all these fun duties, but are going to spend a considerable amount of time behind a locked door prepping meds and charting.

[Infofreak411]

Do they require a degree?

[caliotter3]

In my state psych techs usually graduate from a two year program with an associate's degree, however, they may leave after 18 months without the degree.

[Anonymous1257]

It likely depends on the hiring institution, at my facility A high school diploma/GED is required.

[caliotter3]

Then you must be talking about the nursing assistant version. I am talking about the version that is in line with a Licensed Vocational Nurse.

[Infofreak411]

Then you must be talking about the nursing assistant version. I am talking about the version that is in line with a Licensed Vocational Nurse.

No I'm talking about the psych tech position not nurse assistant... I looked at my local hospital job board and the job description said college background in psychology but did not specify the degree level

[Anonymous1257]

Hm, not sure I'm familiar with the "psyche tech?" They must not be utilized in my area/state. The psyche CNAs have many titles though, Mental Health Associate and Mental Health Technician are the two main ones I hear.

[socialworknurse]

I really think it depends on what state you are in and the unit. In Georgia I see them listed as CNA jobs, but I also see jobs that only require a high school diploma.

[MrChicagoRN, RN]

The MHT, MHW, etc. does rounding, milieu management, is often the eyes and ears for the nurse, assists with hygiene and trays, maybe some group work. While they are a vital link in communication, only the RN can make decisions regarding medications, seclusions, or restraints. Every employee who reports to me is also CPI trained.

At most hospitals around Chicago, the educational bar has been raised over the years. A bachelors is preferred, but may accept less if it is a candidate with solid experience. Most hospitals around here also have a few techs, HS grads who have been there 10-20 years, and are "grandfathered" in.

[Infofreak411]

The MHT, MHW, etc. does rounding, milieu management, is often the eyes and ears for the nurse, assists with hygiene and trays, maybe some group work. While they are a vital link in communication, only the RN can make decisions regarding medications, seclusions, or restraints. Every employee who reports to me is also CPI trained.

At most hospitals around Chicago, the educational bar has been raised over the years. A bachelors is preferred, but may accept less if it is a candidate with solid experience. Most hospitals around here also have a few techs, HS grads who have been there 10-20 years, and are "grandfathered" in.

So they usually have a bachelors in like psycjology and work directly under the nurse? And participates in counseling groups? Do they do vitals and stuff like that?

Sounds a lot like what a CNA does so why do they need a degree?

[fawnmarie, ASN]

In my facility, mental health techs are not required to hold a college degree. Applicants must have a high school diploma, and CNA certification is always a plus. Our MHTs go through an intense 4 week class, that includes CPI training, before being allowed to work on the units. Their duties include obtaining vital signs and assisting the patients with ADL.