Behavioral Health Associate - PRN Job Listing at Mercy in St. Louis, MO (Job ID JR2520792)

Description

Find your calling at Mercy! Under the supervision of the registered nurse, assist in the individualized care of the patient directed toward achieving the patients highest level of physical and mental wellness. Performs designated clinical procedures and non-clinical support tasks essential to nursing care. Assists in unit operational support tasks or duties. Performs duties and responsibilities in manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Position Details: Behavioral Health Associate (PRN)

Location: Mercy Hospital St. Louis
Schedule: PRN (as needed)

Under the direction of a Registered Nurse, the Behavioral Health Associate supports the delivery of individualized patient care focused on achieving optimal physical and mental wellness. This role combines hands-on patient support, clinical assistance, and unit operations to ensure a safe, therapeutic environment.

At Mercy, you'll contribute to a mission-driven team committed to compassionate care, safety, and excellence.

Patient Care & Support

• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including nutrition, hygiene, mobility, and comfort.
• Monitor and document vital signs, intake/output, weights, and patient participation in meals and group activities.
• Observe and report changes in patient behavior, mood, or condition to the nursing team.
• Build therapeutic relationships with patients to support engagement and recovery.
• Assist with admissions, discharges, and patient transfers, including belongings management.

Safety & Risk Management

• Maintain a safe patient environment, applying fall precautions, patient identification procedures, and restraint protocols as needed.
• Use de-escalation techniques to support patients in crisis situations.
• Follow infection prevention practices and all hospital safety policies.
• Conduct equipment checks and report malfunctioning equipment.
• Adhere to patient confidentiality (HIPAA) and patient rights standards.
• Complete incident reports per policy.

Coordination & Communication

• Collaborate with nurses and the interdisciplinary care team to support care plans.
• Participate in shift handoffs, ensuring clear communication of patient status and needs.
• Prioritize tasks based on patient acuity and care requirements.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and coworkers.

Clinical & Administrative Support

• Perform basic clinical procedures using equipment such as vital sign monitors, EKG machines, and glucose monitors.
• Accurately document patient information in the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Assist with clerical duties, including answering phones, managing charts, and responding to call lights.

Therapeutic Programming

• Lead or co-lead group activities and support community meetings.
• Reinforce patient safety plans and encourage active participation in treatment.
• Help establish and maintain appropriate therapeutic boundaries.

Team Support & Leadership

• Assist with orientation and training of new team members.
• Demonstrate flexibility in assignments and workload as patient needs evolve.
• Support quality improvement initiatives that enhance patient care.

Preferred Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Completion of a Nurse Assistant or similar training program

Preferred Experience

• Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Care, or Direct Support Professional experience

• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs (frequent) and up to 40 lbs (occasional force)
• Frequent use of hands for coordination and data entry
• Ability to stand, walk, and maintain balance during patient care activities

• Mission-driven culture focused on compassionate care
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunities to gain valuable behavioral health experience

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.