Kindred Healthcare·Lewiston, Idaho
Provide basic physical and emotional care for patients in a behavioral health setting under the supervision of a registered nurse. Responsibilities include monitoring patient behavior, assisting with daily living activities, and supporting therapeutic group programming.
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Job Summary The Psychiatric Technician / Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides basic physical and emotional care for patients in the behavioral health setting under the direct supervision of a registered nurse.
The role supports both mental health treatment and nursing care delivery by assisting with patient activities, safety, hygiene, mobility, and therapeutic programming.
Responsibilities include implementing structured activities, monitoring patient behavior, and performing delegated clinical tasks.
Essential Functions Provide physical and emotional comfort and safety to patients Assist with personal hygiene, ambulation, toileting, feeding, and hydration Transport or assist in moving and positioning patients using proper techniques and equipment Collect and document vital signs, height, weight, and other delegated clinical data Participate in therapeutic programming including group activities and patient engagement Lead or support therapeutic community groups and end-of-day wrap-up sessions Escort patients to therapy groups or appointments as assigned Assist with meal tray delivery, feeding assistance, and clean-up Maintain clean, safe, and organized patient rooms and common areas Follow infection control guidelines including use of universal precautions Observe and report changes in patient behavior, mood, or physical condition Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations Ability to communicate effectively and compassionately with patients and team members Knowledge of basic nursing care procedures and behavioral health safety practices Ability to function effectively in a team environment and manage challenging behaviors Strong interpersonal skills and respect for patient dignity and confidentiality Understanding of behavioral health principles and willingness to support therapeutic milieu Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, pushing, pulling, and reaching Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and assist with patient transfers Requires physical ability to respond quickly and safely in crisis situations Visual and auditory acuity required for patient monitoring and care Inpatient behavioral health and general clinical settings Exposure to blood, body fluids, communicable diseases, and potentially aggressive behavior Requires use of PPE and adherence to hospital safety protocols Shift work including weekends and holidays may be required
Education High school diploma or equivalent required Completion of a state-approved Certified Nursing Assistant training program required Licenses/Certifications Current CNA certification in state of practice required Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within time frame required by facility policy Experience Experience in behavioral health or psychiatric inpatient care preferred
Requires a high school diploma, completion of a state-approved CNA training program, and current CNA and BLS certifications. Experience in psychiatric inpatient care is preferred.
Market context
In Idaho, behavioral-health roles typically see steady demand in community clinics, outpatient programs, schools, and integrated care settings. These positions are competitive because employers often look for an active Idaho substance abuse or mental health license, at least one year of relevant experience, and strong interpersonal skills aligned with licensure ethics. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time comparing postings, then confirm your license status and prepare examples of client-facing work before applying.