Mental Health Worker (PRN) – Inpatient Behavioral Health

About the role

The Mental Health Worker provides supportive, hands‑on care to patients receiving inpatient behavioral health services at Palestine Regional Medical Center. Working under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, you will help maintain a safe, therapeutic environment while assisting patients with daily activities and participating in treatment programs.

Key responsibilities

• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as hygiene, nutrition, and mobility.
• Observe and promptly report changes in behavior, mood, or physical condition to the nursing team.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and therapeutic environment, including suicide‑risk and elopement precautions.
• Support therapeutic programming by encouraging participation and helping with group activities.
• De‑escalate crisis situations using approved techniques and document all interventions.
• Accurately record patient care, progress, and observations in the medical record.
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary treatment team to meet individualized treatment goals.

Required profile

• Ability to interact therapeutically with patients while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of behavioral health principles, safety practices, and patient rights.
• Capacity to manage stressful situations and respond calmly in emergencies.
• Team‑oriented with strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to confidentiality.
• Physical ability to stand, walk, lift objects up to 50 lb, and perform frequent reaching, pushing, and pulling.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work in a 150‑bed hospital recognized for safety and quality.
• Engagement with a supportive, interdisciplinary team focused on patient recovery.
• Professional growth within a community‑focused healthcare setting.