Behavioral Health Technician-Duke University Hospital ED Extension Unit Pediatrics

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides direct physical and emotional support to patients with psychiatric, behavioral health, substance abuse, dementia, and intellectual or developmental disabilities. Working under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, the BHT helps ensure patient safety, supports daily living activities, assists with therapeutic and recreational programs, and contributes to a safe and supportive care environment.

• Monitor patients and report changes in condition or behavior to the nursing team.
• Assist patients with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, feeding, and personal hygiene.
• Support patients with mobility, transfers, range-of-motion exercises, and ambulation.
• Provide one-on-one support and facilitate social and recreational activities.
• Assist with patient safety interventions, including monitoring patients in seclusion or restraint and participating in crisis situations when necessary.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized patient care environment.
• Participate in patient care planning and interdisciplinary team discussions.
• Follow infection prevention, safety, and regulatory standards.

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.

Experience

• One year of experience working with individuals with mental health, substance abuse, dementia, intellectual disabilities, or developmental disabilities preferred.

Certification/Registration One of the following is preferred upon hire:

• North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry listing
• North Carolina Substance Abuse Counselor certification
• North Carolina EMT certification
• Behavioral Health Technician certification through an approved certifying body

Candidates who do not meet one of the above requirements must begin pursuing an approved credential within one year of employment and complete it within two years.

Additional requirements:

• BLS certification by the end of new hire orientation
• CPI certification strongly preferred

Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.