Provides licensed practical nursing care and security within the forensics unit of a psychiatric facility. Nursing specific security functions include duties such as:  key control, control panel operation, escort patients in secure and unsecure areas, conduct room and yard sweeps, search for contraband, screen visitors’ and patients’ belongings and initiate required reporting in the event of an unauthorized leave or other break in security protocol.

Inspects housing and treatment areas, supplies, equipment, and patients for health, sanitation, safety, security and, other conditions that may be detrimental to the care and treatment of the patients;

Attends to the general care of patients, provides for their emotional and physical comfort and safety and maintains an attractive and comfortable environment; gives assistance and guidance in cleanliness, grooming, rest, activities and, nourishment;

Participates in providing therapeutic environment through acceptance of patient behavior and guidance toward more rational behavior;

Prepares and cares for patients receiving specialized treatments administered by the physician or the professional nurse; performs selected nursing procedures;

Cares for patients with communicable diseases including necessary sterilization and observation of aseptic techniques;

Prepares and administers oral, subcutaneous and intramuscular medications, under the supervision of the professional nurse;

Encourages and supervises patients in group or individual recreational, social or related activities;

Observes, records and reports the general condition of patient;

Assists with the rehabilitation of patients according to the treatment plan;

Participates in in-service education programs, staff and treatment team conferences;

Performs other work as required.

Knowledge of: practical nursing principles, practices, and methods; procedures and policies of the institution; methods and techniques of supervision and security enforcement.

Ability to: supervise and train employees; control and direct patients individually and in groups; appraise persons and situations accurately and adopt effective courses of action; enforce regulations with firmness, tact, and impartiality; provide practical nursing care to psychiatric patients; treat individuals with respect, kindness, and consideration; follow written and oral instructions; speak and write clearly and effectively.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

Possession of a valid license as a Licensed Practical Nurse in the state of Washington;

AND

Two years of experience in caring for patients or residents in a hospital, school or other treatment facility.  

New class Effective November 9, 1973
New class code: (formerly 56570) effective July 1, 2007

Salary adjustment, revisions to the definition, typical work and desirable qualifications; adopted June 30, 2017 effective July 1, 2017.

Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.