Behavioral Health Associate (PRN)

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

Overview

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.

Key Responsibilities

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.

Qualifications

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

Physical Requirements

• 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

Why Join Mercy?

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