This position serves as a Mental Health Technician that provides technical, patient care, personnel, computer and date management support services for the Nursing Service, Mental Health Unit at the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System. To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement. GS-06 grade level: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 grade level in federal service. The specialized experience has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities (KSA's) and other characteristics to perform successfully the duties of this position, and is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled, in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Specialized experience includes: Knowledge of all types of substance abuse and psychiatric disorders; Skill utilizing appropriate therapeutic treatment modalities; Knowledge and skill identifying behavior problems and progression of illness; Ability to observe patients; Ability to communicate with members of the multidisciplinary treatment team; Knowledge of medical terminology related to observing, interpreting and reporting the physical and emotional reactions of patients. There is no educational substitution for the GS-06 level. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. ["The primary purpose of this position is to perform a very wide range of patient personal care, diagnostic services, treatment and charting activities in a psychiatric or substance abuse treatment unit. The incumbent performs duties in such a way as to encourage patient efforts towards goals for recovery and maintain a safe an therapeutic environment while promoting a sense of worth and dignity for the patient. The incumbent provides personal nursing care to substance abuse and psychiatric patients, and serves as an active, participating member of the health care team. The objectives for care are set in the treatment plan as established by the multidisciplinary treatment team. Major duties and responsibilities include, but not limited to: Determines technical factors, sets controls and operates equipment, instruments and monitors. Maintains a therapeutic and safe ward by identifying, reporting and eliminating potential hazards. Assists with physicians and nurses in the care and treatment of clients receiving medical care for psychiatric or substance abuse treatment. Performs a range of diagnostic support duties such as taking, recording and reporting to RN deviations in vital signs/withdrawal symptoms, collecting and labeling specimens for the laboratory. Demonstrates acceptable behavior as a role model for patient behavior. Secures patient confidence and cooperation during hospital stay, including explaining procedures and guidelines. Provides general clerical administrative support coordination work for the unit. Work Schedule: Day Shift/Night Shift Position Description Title/PD#: Health Technician (Mental Health)/ Physical Requirements: The work requires regular recurring periods of sitting, standing, and walking throughout the unit. The work also requires occasional turning and/or lifting of specific patients. The employee assists with protecting patients, self and other team members from physical harm by agitated, hostile and/or confused patients by therapeutically applying physical restraints, which may require stooping, bending and stretching."]

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