Psychiatric Nursing Assistant II

Job Title

Psychiatric Nursing Assistant II (PNA II)

Terrell State Hospital, 1200 E Brin, Terrell, TX

• Provide patient care services in an inpatient psychiatric setting under the clinical supervision of a Registered Nurse.
• Conduct emergency, health, and personal care services to patients, including assistance with hygiene, nutrition, and daily living activities.
• Observe, report, and document patient conditions, behaviors, and progress in an electronic health record.
• Participate in individualized recovery plans and unit-based programming, promoting living and social skills.
• Engage patients therapeutically, using person‑centered communication skills to support recovery goals.
• Assist licensed nurses with medication monitoring and vital sign measurements within competency limits.
• Respond to psychiatric emergencies and crises using Treatment Intervention Protection Strategies (TIPS), including verbal de‑escalation and least‑restrictive interventions.
• Perform CPR, Heimlich maneuvers, and use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) in accordance with American Heart Association guidelines.
• Provide guidance to less experienced PNAs when needed.
• Participate in unit and hospital‑wide committees focused on quality improvement, patient safety, and strategic planning.
• Assist with disaster response or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activations as assigned.

The PNA II performs moderately complex duties under general supervision, with limited latitude for initiative and independent judgment. The role may require work on evenings, nights, weekends, or maximum‑security locations and may involve a rotating shift schedule. All duties are subject to change to meet hospital needs and may involve exposure to blood or other infectious materials.

• At least 12 months of direct care experience, preferably in a psychiatric or mental health setting.
• Knowledge of patient care techniques, treatment, therapy, and development of patient‑centered recovery programs.
• Basic computer and documentation skills.
• Ability to read, write, and comprehend English effectively.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, including the ability to work under supervision and provide guidance to peers.
• Knowledge and ability to perform vital sign measurements.

• Valid Texas driver license (or obtain within 90 days of hire). Out‑of‑state license holders must provide an original certified driving record.
• CPR certification, or ability to obtain certification within the first 60 days of employment.

Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, a pre‑employment drug screen, and the following registry checks:
Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide, Employee Misconduct, and List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Male applicants aged 18‑25 must be registered with Selective Service. All applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Waco and Terrell Center for Youth applicants must be at least 21 years of age. Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required.

Salary range: $3,047.58 – $4,149.83 per month. Eligibility for shift differential pay for work performed on evenings, nights, weekends, and maximum‑security locations. Full‑time position with benefits including health insurance, pension plan, paid time off, and opportunities for career advancement.