Kindred Healthcare·Watertown, Wisconsin
Provide supportive care to psychiatric patients, including assistance with activities of daily living and monitoring for safety. Support therapeutic interventions and maintain a secure environment under the supervision of licensed nursing staff.
Be part of Watertown Regional Medical Center, an acute-care hospital in southeastern Wisconsin that consistently earns national awards for its high-quality care from the likes of Becker's Hospital Review, Chartis, Healthgrades, The Leapfrog Group, and parent company ScionHealth.
Watertown Regional's exceptional care across multiple specialty services is also reflected in its numerous accreditations and certifications.
Join our team and grow your career in a hospital where everyday excellence meets or exceeds expectations.
Job Summary The Certified Nursing Assistant – Psych provides supportive care to patients in a behavioral health unit under the supervision of licensed nursing staff.
Responsibilities include assisting patients with activities of daily living, promoting safety through observation and redirection, supporting therapeutic interventions, and maintaining a secure and respectful environment for psychiatric patients.
Essential Functions Assists patients with personal care, hygiene, ambulation, feeding, and elimination needs Supports patients with psychosocial needs under supervision of the RN Provides safe patient positioning, transfer, and mobility support Documents intake/output, vital signs, weights, and patient behaviors in EMR Maintains clean and organized patient rooms and unit environments Answers call lights and responds to patient needs promptly and respectfully Participates in therapeutic activities, patient observation, and safety checks Assists in admission, transfer, and discharge procedures Applies and monitors restraints as directed and maintains documentation Transports patients to procedures and departments as needed Participates in crisis interventions and assists in de-escalation under RN direction Communicates effectively with the healthcare team, patients, and families Provides post-mortem care and assists in body transport as needed Adheres to infection control and safety protocols Maintains awareness of patient confidentiality and boundaries Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations Strong communication, observation, and interpersonal skills Ability to remain calm and supportive in emotionally charged situations Basic knowledge of behavioral health conditions and care strategies Demonstrates respect for diverse backgrounds and experiences Proficient in electronic medical records and basic computer use Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team Must be able to stand/walk for long periods and lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds Committed to safety, professionalism, and quality patient care
Education High School Diploma or Equivalent including education equivalent to completion of secondary school or demonstrated ability to perform the essential functions of the role. (Preferred) Licenses/Certifications CNA - Certified Nursing Assistant in the state of practice Upon Hire (Required) And BCLS - Basic Life Support Like AHA or Red Cross Within Facility-Specified time frame (Required) Experience Minimum of six (6) months experience in an acute care, long-term care, or behavioral health setting preferred
Requires a High School Diploma and a valid CNA certification in the state of practice, with BCLS certification required within a specified timeframe. Preferred candidates have at least six months of experience in acute, long-term, or behavioral health settings.
Market context
In Wisconsin, CNA openings are often driven by ongoing staffing needs in hospitals, long-term care, and other patient-care settings. These roles can be competitive because employers may prefer candidates with current state certification, though some will also consider applicants who have completed a 75-hour training program and are awaiting the state exam. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your certification status and availability before applying.
