Performs basic, routine duties related directly and indirectly to nursing care of patients.

Takes and records vital signs and point of care testing and reports deviations from normal to Registered Nurse. Obtains specimens as assigned (e.g., urine, stool, sputum). Weighs patient and records weight. Assists patient with activities of daily living including skin care (e.g., bathes, dress, ambulate and assists with meals). Records oral intake and urinary output as necessary. Communicates effectively with Charge Nurse/primary nurse regarding patients' needs and requests. Orients patient to environment and develops rapport with patients, family and significant others. Assists in patient management including de-escalation, alternative activities to prevent restraint and seclusion and physically assists in patient containment, restraint or seclusion under the direction of the Registered Nurse  Performs admission and unit searches as assigned by the Registered Nurse to include patient belongings as well as visual searches of same gender patients on admission. Keeps unit clean (e.g., wipes table, neatens storage rooms, pantries and other areas). Prepares patient rooms for new admissions (e.g., stocks with bedpan, tissues, water, cups). Applies principles of infection control and safety in the work environment. Reports significant unit problems to charge nurse. Ensures that contraband is not introduced into the unit environment by property search, unit rounds and visitor monitoring. Monitors visiting sessions as assigned. Assists in transporting patients to/from designated areas as assigned (e.g. testing or procedures). Assists with unit therapeutic activities as directed by the Registered Nurse. Ensures a safe unit environment through rounding, patient observation, reporting environmental issues or patient problems to the Registered Nurse. Effectively utilizes the hospital computer system as it pertains to job responsibilities and in accordance with hospital policy. Participates in orientation of mental health assistants. Participates in unit committees.

Assists other personnel as necessary.