Psychiatric Technician Job Description

Psychiatric technicians are professionals in the medical care field that are required to give medical care to any patients with psychological problems. A psychiatric technician will provide care for those with mental development and emotion issues, as well as those that are mentally deranged. The technician works within supervision of a psychiatrist, registered nurse, or mental health professional. Psychiatric technicians typically work in a position under salary within a clinical environment, which may include long term care centers and public hospitals.

A psychiatric technician must undergo therapeutic procedures and nursing services for those that are suffering from mental or emotional problems. The technician must work with patients in psychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, and similar environments. They are responsible for a lot of hands on treatment procedures and working with rehabilitation strategies within the office. Take a look below to get a better idea on some of the responsibilities that a psychiatric technician will typically possess.

Putting patient treatment strategies from psychiatrists and mental health professionals into effect
Noting any differences in the patient’s mental and physical health
Noting any reactions to medication prescribed to the patient
Monitoring the patient’s progress throughout the treatment
Giving the patient hypodermic injections and oral medications
Helping patients with performing typical activities of their daily lives
Helping with maintaining proper hygiene health for the patient
Eliminating the risk of patients with violence issues from hurting anyone
Keeping track of vital signs and general health of the patient

How to become a Psychiatric Technician

Psychiatric technicians must complete postsecondary education programs that translate to a career in this field. Psychiatric technology programs are ideal and are made available at both community colleges and technical schools. These programs will go for various lengths, and may take upwards of two years to complete. This will be based on the particular certification that the student wishes to receive. Shorter, one semester programs may be taken to lead into obtaining a certificate that allows practicing as a psychiatric technician. It is expected that the student applying for school has previous courses in biology, chemistry, and psychology.

Psychiatric Technician Training

A psychiatric technician will receive pharmacology training to make sure that they are completely educated on the medication that they may need to prescribe. The psychiatric technician course will include both general and abnormal training in the field of psychology. Within the course, the student will be responsible for completing both course and field projects. Throughout this learning experience, the student will get a considerable amount of insight on the typical responsibilities that they will face once working this position as a psychiatric technician. Training in the workplace will be required to make sure they have all the skills necessary to perform tasks without supervision.

Psychiatric Technician Certification

A psychiatric technician does not necessarily need certification in order to begin seeking a job. Completion of the nation-wide psychiatric technician certification exam will likely help improve the chances of gaining employment in this field. It may also open up to higher paying jobs for this position. To obtain certification as a psychiatric technician, it will be necessary to complete registration through the American Association of Psychiatric Technician for their certification program.