Mental Health Coordinator

$35.00 - $45.50 per hour

Current California Psych Tech, LVN or RN license with minimum one year prior experience in a long-term care facility working with geriatric and alzheimers and dementia residents. Has a working knowledge of Title 22, OBRA and other pertinent regulations. Operating knowledge of Electronic Medical Records preferred. Must be able to effectively communicate in English; both verbal and written. Must have good interpersonal skills and be able to interface tactfully and respectfully with patients , residents, staff, the general public and governmental agency reps.

Basic computer skills required.

• Assists the RN with the gathering of psychotropic medication history.
• Assists the RN to ensure appropriate informed consents are in place for the use of psychoactive medications prior to use.
• LPT or LVN assists the RN in identifying behaviors and completing behavior monitors specific to the residents need.
• LPT or LVN maintains accurate documentation of psychotropic medications prescribed by the physician. Documents dose reductions and resident response to the dose reductions.
• LPT or LVN will assist the RN in assessing and monitoring the resident for Tardive Dyskinesia and Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome.
• Assists the RN in formulating behavior monitors.
• Assists the RN in completing the care plans.
• LPT or LVN provides a psychotropic drug use report monthly to the DON.
• LPT or LVN will ensure Care Plans for psychoactive medications are completed timely and updated routinely.
• LPT or LVN actively participates in the Monthly Drug Review meeting.
• Communicate with the psychiatrist, pharmacist, and SNF Medical Director to ensure appropriate dosing and diagnosis.
• Works with direct care staff to identify behaviors and puts appropriate interventions in place.
• Reviews Behavior Monitors and documentation for ADR to ensure completeness.
• LPT or LVN will provide in-service to SNF staff as needed to promote appropriate interaction between staff and residents.
• Assist with overseeing SNF planning and formulation of policies related to behavioral management.
• Assist with training and in servicing all staff with behavioral, dementia and mental health concerns.
• Makes rounds on skilled nursing center daily.
• Participate in the performance improvement functions by collecting and verifying data, as needed related to psychosocial wellbeing of residents.
• Consults other departments, as appropriate, to provide an interdisciplinary approach to residents needs.
• Treats residents and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses the psychosocial, cultural, ethnic, and religious/spiritual needs of residents and their families.
• Monitor care plans of behavioral and mental health concerns.
• Assists DON with investigations and reporting to proper authorities.
• Assist with the Social Service Designee of completion and updating the Minimum Data Sets and care plans.
• Assist the Social Services Department with coordination of care amongst the MSW, LCSW and SSD and with outreach support for mental health concerns as needed.
• Assists the MSW/LCSW with intervening regarding behavioral concerns as needed.
• Acts as an advocate for residents of the facility.
• Maintains good relationships with the Ombudsman and community outreach programs.
• Assist mental health providers with coordinating care of residents.
• Assist Director of Nursing with duties as assigned within scope of practice.