Job Title: Patient Care Associate (PCA) – Psychiatry
Location: New York, NY
Job Type: Contract
Duration: 13 Weeks
Shift: Night Shift – 7:00 PM–8:00 AM
Schedule: 3 shifts per week; 39 hours per week
Local Candidates Required: Yes
Traveler Candidates Required: No
Pay Rate
Local: $750–$930/week, based on experience
Note: This job doesn't offer any benefits.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Patient Care Associate (PCA) to support patients in an inpatient psychiatric unit. The ideal candidate must hold a Medical Assistant certification and have at least 2 years of psychiatric or behavioral health experience.
Required Qualifications
Medical Assistant certification is mandatory.
Minimum 2 years of psychiatric or behavioral health experience.
High school diploma or equivalent with qualifying experience, or an associate degree, preferably in mental health or a related field.
Experience working with individuals with mental health or behavioral health needs.
Relevant experience in nursing, psychiatric care, behavioral health, counseling, law enforcement, or related mental health services, as applicable to the education pathway.
Ability to support patients experiencing emotional distress or behavioral challenges.
Strong communication, interpersonal, teamwork, and observation skills.
Ability to follow patient care instructions and established safety protocols.
Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English.
Required Certifications & Skills
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association.
Certificate of Medical Assistant training.
Current CPI or PMCS certification.
Venipuncture experience.
EKG skills.
Successful completion of required SEL and SCR background checks.
Responsibilities
Assist with patient admissions, orientation, and adjustment to the inpatient psychiatric unit.
Help patients with changing, personal belongings, securing valuables, and understanding unit rules and regulations.
Support the nursing team in preparing and updating nursing care plans and interdisciplinary treatment plans.
Assist with therapeutic interventions and implement patient care activities as directed.
Monitor and record vital signs, height, weight, and other relevant health information.
Perform basic clinical procedures, including simple dressing changes, blood and urine specimen collection, urine testing, venipuncture, and EKGs.
Assist patients with personal hygiene, bathing, grooming, dressing, feeding, and other daily living activities.
Lead or co-lead recreational and therapeutic group activities.
Provide supportive counseling to patients and families within the scope of the role.
Escort patients to medical appointments, diagnostic procedures, and other approved activities.
Assist with discharge planning, transportation arrangements, and communication with families or other support services.
Follow established protocols for patient safety, de-escalation, seclusion, and restraints.
Initiate CPR when necessary and assist the nursing team during emergency response procedures.
Maintain infection control standards and comply with hospital policies and procedures.
Help create a safe, respectful, and therapeutic environment for patients receiving psychiatric care.