07/01/1995 30110

FORENSIC SECURITY EMPLOYEE 1

DEFINITION:

This is non-professional nursing work in a specialized occupational field providing care to the mentally disabled patients at institutions with forensic units or at Farview.

An employee in this class performs non-professional routine nursing and attendant duties in caring for the mentally ill who may have been placed through the criminal justice system for diagnosis and intensive treatment on the basis of the least restrictive alternative, as mandated by mental health commitment laws, and their quarters and in overseeing their recreational and work activities. The type of patient involved requires the application of special precautions to prevent injury to employees and patients and to prevent escape. Employees may exercise limited supervision over co-workers when relieving a ward of night change Psychiatric Security Aide. Work is performed according to detailed instructions and under the close supervision of a higher level Psychiatric Security Aide, nur6se, or physician.

EXAMPLES OF WORK:

Performs such basic nursing procedures as taking temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and blood pressure; applies dressings, and provides general daily nursing care to patients.

Bathes, feeds, and shaves patients, paying particular attention to the security of knives, razors, and other dangerous implements.

Supervises patients and assists in the performance of housekeeping duties in wards and corridors.

Accompanies patients to and from meals, work details, and recreational activities; collects silverware after meals; maintains close supervision over patients at all times.

Inspects grounds, ward, and cells for weapons and insecure protective devices; searches patients for contraband; takes necessary precautions to prevent escape and injury to patients.

Supervises a corridor or ward during the night; quiets disturbed patients.

Observes the behavior and attitude of patients and reports any deviations from normal behavior.

Issues laundry and supplies; requisitions supplies as needed.

Makes periodic bed checks, keeps records, and makes routine reports.

Observes patients during occupational therapy periods and searches them at the conclusion of such periods for concealed implements.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of basic nursing procedures and patient care and of the methods and techniques of discipline required for persons under restraint.

Knowledge of the materials used and the processes involved in ward housekeeping operations.

Ability to control and direct patients individually and in groups and to act quickly in emergencies.

Ability to control acutely disturbed and dangerous patients safely and to prevent injury to themselves and the patients.

Ability to keep and maintain simple records.

Ability to follow simple oral and written instructions.

Ability, physically, to perform required duties satisfactorily.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

One year of experience as a Forensic Security Employee Trainee.