Nursing Assistant (Mental Health)

Leeds, Massachusetts, Massachusetts, ** Recruitment Incentive Authorized ** This is an open and continuous announcement intended for current and future vacancies at the location listed. This announcement will remain open until the closing date of 9/8/23, the date beyond which the system no longer accepts applications for an advertised position. After 6/23/2023, applications will be reviewed and referred at regular intervals based on the needs of the facility. Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Education or Training. One year above high school with courses related to the NA occupation. Completion of an intensive, specialized, occupation-related course of study of less than one year as a nursing assistant English Language Proficiency. NAs must be proficient in spoken and written English May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations: GS-3 Experience and Education.

None beyond the basic requirements. GS-4 Experience. One year of specialized experience as a NA or experience in another medical field (licensed practical nurse, health technician, hospital corpsman, etc. ), performing technical and nursing skills requiring knowledge of the human physical and emotional states, therapeutic communication, and technical skills required for basic and intermediate treatments; OR Education. Successful completion of 2 years above high school in an accredited institution with courses related to nursing care, health care or in a field of study appropriate to the specialization of the position, such as education in a program for psychology, psychiatric, or operating room technicians; AND Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Ability to provide a range of patient/resident care and contribute to the completion of the nurse care plan and recovery of patients/residents. Ability to observe patients/residents’ or resident’s physical or emotional status and refer deviations and/or problems to supervisor in a timely manner. Ability to properly use equipment, materials and supplies in simple diagnostic and treatment procedures such as bladder scan, continuous passive motion device, blood glucose monitoring machine, specimen collection, etc. Ability to communicate effectively with patients/residents, their families and other health professionals. GS-5 Experience.

One year of progressively responsible assignments and experience equivalent to theGS-4 level which demonstrates knowledge, skills, and abilities that are directly related to the specific assignment. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the professional KSAs in subparagraph (3) below; OR Education. Successful completion of a 4-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor’s degree that included 24 semester hours of courses related to health care or possession of a bachelor’s degree; AND Demonstrated KSAs Ability to assist in the full range of nursing care to patients/residents with physical and/or behavioral problems in a hospital, long term care or outpatient setting under the direction of a Registered Nurse and/or Licensed Vocational Nurse/Licensed Practical Nurse. Ability to communicate orally with patients/residents, families, interdisciplinary team and other personnel. This includes serving as a preceptor to new [NAs] by assisting with the coordination of their orientation and overseeing/assessing their practical experience while in a clinical setting. Ability to recognize and react to emergent patient/resident care situations and intervene while waiting for assistance. For example, recognizing need for basic life support, controlling bleeding and assisting with behavior crisis, etc. References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/81 PART II APPENDIX G46 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS5. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS3 to GS5. Physical Requirements: Work involves varying periods of sitting, standing and walking.

Working with Veterans/residents requires bending, stooping, teaching, lifting, balancing, kneeling, pushing, i. e. , wheelchairs, geri-chairs, litters and similar activities. Also, it may be necessary to perform such activities as CPR and psychiatric intervention at a unit-specific level. [“This announcement is intended to fill current and future vacancies under Nursing Service at the Edward P. Boland VA Medical Center. Available shifts could be days, evenings, nights, and may include rotation to other tours to cover shortages or high patient volume. Weekends and holidays may be required. Shift changes will be considered based on patient and facility needs. Work section assignments that may be available or become available: Acute Psychiatry Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs (RRTP) The incumbent performs a wide variety of clerical, patient care and supportive duties in the outpatient specialty clinic and is flexible in adapting to work demands and numerous assignments.

The incumbent maintains the progress of the daily flow of work and makes adjustments according to the needs of the patients and practitioners. The incumbent obtains assistance from the clinic nurse and/or Nurse Manager as needed. The incumbent displays excellent communication skills to establish and maintain a rapport with co-workers, patients and families. Nursing Assistants perform a range of nursing care activities while assigned to the Acute Psychiatry Unit and the Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs (RRTP). In addition to performing activities of daily living and documentation, the nursing assistant demonstrates an understanding of each member of the interdisciplinary team’s role and appropriately communicates with members to promote positive outcomes as well as: Assist licensed nursing staff in the care of Veterans/residents receiving outpatient care, home or community living care or other Veterans/residents who are in acute, sub-acute, or chronic states of illness. Escorting Veterans/residents safely both on and off station. Follow standard precautions and other infection control protocols. Demonstrates knowledge of basic health care provider skills. Provides 1:1 or Safety Sitter nursing care to Veterans/residents who may require restraints or special observation. Understands Veteran’s/resident’s rights and responsibilities.

Maintains a safe, secure environment for Veterans/residents, staff, significant others and visitors as addressed in the VAMC Safety Manual. Provides comprehensive physical care to Veterans/residents. Motivating Veterans/residents towards optimal level of functioning. Assume a peer education/mentorship role. Work Schedule: To be discussed at interview and confirmed on selection. Days, Evenings, and Nights with Rotations (Weekends/Holidays Rotation) Compressed/Flexible: Not Available Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: Nursing Assistant/ F1540/F1541/F1542 Recruitment Incentives: Authorized ($3,000) Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required”]

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