Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework 

Program Title: 	Mental Health Technician
Program Type: 	Career Preparatory
Career Cluster: 	Health Science

Career Certificate Program	
Program Number	H180100	
CIP Number	0351150204	
Grade Level	30, 31	
Program Length	480 hours	
Teacher Certification	Refer to the Program Structure section.	
CTSO	HOSA	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	For program SOC codes, please see the Program and Course Tables section of the CTE Program Resources page linked below.	
CTE Program Resources 	http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml	
Basic Skills Level	Computation (Mathematics):	9	Communications (Reading and Language Arts):	9	

Purpose

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Health Science career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of Health Science career cluster. 

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for employment as mental health technicians, psychiatric aides or psychiatric technicians, mental health technicians and nursing assistants.  Additional certification and licensure opportunities (i.e., Certified Recovery Peer Specialist, Certified Community Health Worker and Certified Behavioral Health Technician) are noted at the end of the document under Special Notes. 

The content includes but is not limited to nursing assistant skills, physical assessment, patient teaching and education, wellness and disease concepts, HIV/AIDS, growth and development, mental illness, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, psychosis, personality disorders, emergency and crisis intervention, Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia, intellectual developmental disabilities, substance abuse, group therapy, stress management, employability skills, safety and security issues, legal and ethical, therapeutic communication, documentation, clinical skills including hygiene, vital signs and CPR. 

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 3 occupational completion points.

This program is comprised of courses which have been assigned course numbers in the SCNS (Statewide Course Numbering System) in accordance with Section 1007.24 (1), F.S.  Career and Technical credit shall be awarded to the student on a transcript in accordance with Section 1001.44(3) (b), F.S.

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 3 occupational completion points.

To teach the courses listed below, instructors must hold at least one of the teacher certifications indicated for that course.

The following table illustrates the postsecondary program structure:

OCP	Course Number	Course Title	Teacher Certification	Length	
A	HSC0003	Basic Healthcare Worker	REG NURSE  7 G
LPN 7 G*
PRAC NURSE @7 %7%G (Must be a Registered Nurse)	90 hours	
B	HCP0121	Nurse Aide and Orderly (articulated)		75 hours	
C	HCP0810	Mental Health Technician	REG NURSE  7 G	315 hours	
*The LPN 7 G district issued certification is a practical nurse. A practical nurse can only be utilized as an instructor of the CNA training program when they are supervised by the program coordinator which must be a registered nurse.  Please refer to 64B9-15.005, F.A.C., for requirements.  

Florida’s Career Readiness Skills for CTE Programs

Employability Skills	
01.0	Apply academic skills to workplace scenarios.	
01.01	Use reading skills.	
01.02	Use writing skills.	
01.03	Use mathematical strategies and procedures.	
01.04	Use scientific principles and procedures.	
02.0	Design a solution to an industry problem.	
02.01	Use critical thinking.	
02.02	Use creativity.	
02.03	Make sound decisions.	
02.04	Solve problems.	
02.05	Reason. 	
02.06	Plan and organize.	
03.0	Manage resources within an industry project	
03.01	Manage time.	
03.02	Manage money or resources.	
03.03	Manage materials.	
03.04	Manage personnel.	
04.0	Oversee the subcomponents, operations and output of a technical or organizational system.	
04.01	Manage systems.	
04.02	Monitor systems.	
04.03	Improve systems.	
05.0	Use information for decision making.	
05.01	Locate information.	
05.02	Organize information.	
05.03	Use information.	
05.04	Analyze information.	
05.05	Communicate information.	
06.0	Apply relevant technology to workplace scenarios to aid productivity.	
06.01	Use technology.	
07.0	Interpret and express interpersonal communication.	
07.01	Communicate verbally.	
07.02	Listen actively.	
07.03	Comprehend written material.	
07.04	Convey information in writing.	
07.05	Communicate nonverbally.	
07.06	Interpret nonverbal communication.	
08.0	Interact with others to accomplish workplace goals.	
08.01	Collaborate with others in a team.	
08.02	Respond to customer needs.	
08.03	Exercise leadership.	
08.04	Negotiate to resolve conflict.	
08.05	Respect others.	
09.0	Manage personal behavior to maximize productivity and professional growth.	
09.01	Demonstrate responsibility and self-discipline.	
09.02	Adapt and show flexibility.	
09.03	Work independently.	
09.04	Demonstrate a willingness to learn.	
09.05	Demonstrate integrity.	
09.06	Demonstrate professionalism.	
09.07	Take initiative.	
09.08	Display positive attitude.	
09.09	Take responsibility for professional growth.	
Job Attainment	
10.0	Find, assess and apply to job opportunities.	
10.01	Identify online job posts relevant to his or her career aspirations.	
10.02	Compare and contrast the job posts’ required qualifications, job duties, compensation, benefits and employers. 	
10.03	Define what information, documentation and writing prompts are required for the positions.	
11.0	Communicate personal competence, character and fit for a job opportunity.	
11.01	Develop a resume.	
11.02	Write a cover letter.	
11.03	Curate a professional portfolio that includes work products.	
11.04	Prepare for and experience a mock job interview.	
12.0	Cultivate and leverage relationships to professionally advance.	
12.01	Request a signed reference letter, letter of recommendation and/or an online skill/professionalism endorsement. 	
12.02	Develop a plan to cultivate a professional digital footprint.	
12.03	Develop a networking plan for a specific industry of interest.	

Standards
After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the healthcare delivery system and health occupations.
02.0	Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively.
03.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities.
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of and apply wellness and disease concepts.
05.0	Recognize and practice safety and security procedures.
06.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations.
07.0	Recognize and practice infection control procedures.
08.0	Demonstrate an understanding of information technology applications in healthcare.
09.0	Demonstrate employability skills.
10.0	Demonstrate knowledge of blood borne diseases, including HIV/AIDS.
11.0	Apply basic math and science skills.
12.0	Use verbal and written communications specific to Nurse Assisting.
13.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities specific to Nurse Assisting.
14.0	Perform physical comfort and safety functions specific to Nurse Assisting.
15.0	Provide personal patient care.
16.0	Perform patient care procedures.
17.0	Apply principles of nutrition.
18.0	Provide care for geriatric patients.
19.0	Apply the principles of infection control specific to Nursing Assisting.
20.0	Provide biological, psychological, and social support.
21.0	Perform supervised organizational functions, following the patient care plan.
22.0	Assist with restorative (rehabilitative) activities.
23.0	Demonstrate and implement knowledge of mental health, mental illness, including substance use/abuse and addiction.
24.0	Identify the spectrum of interventions and treatment for mental health problems and the types of delivery of care in the stabilization and rehabilitation of the mental health patient.
25.0	Demonstrate an understanding of various mental health disorders, observable signs and symptoms and general interventions to be implemented by the mental health technician.
26.0	Provide therapeutic communication, knowledge of therapeutic relationship, and support for the mental health patient.
27.0	Perform skills and documentation related to caring for and supervising the mental health patient in various types of treatment settings.
28.0	Implement crisis intervention techniques and emergency services if necessary in the mental health setting. 
29.0	Participate as a member of a multidisciplinary team in the planning and implementation of care and treatment for individual patients.
30.0	Provide patient education and information on the various resources and support groups available for the mentally ill, substance using or addictive client and family members.
31.0	Conduct individual, group and family presentations/discussions to facilitate patient recovery and wellness.
32.0	Perform pharmacological aspects of care as directed (residential and assisted living facility settings).

Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Program Title: 	Mental Health Technician 
Career Certificate Program Number: 	H180100

The Basic Health Care Worker (HSC0003) is referred to as the Health Science Core and is the first OCP in the majority of the Career Certificate Program health science programs. Secondary and Postsecondary students completing the health science core will not have to repeat the core in any other health science program in which it is a part.  When the recommended sequence is followed, the structure allows students to complete at specified points for employment or remain for advanced training or cross-training.

Course Number:  HSC0003
Occupational Completion Point:  A 
Basic Healthcare Worker – 90 Hours	

To ensure consistency whenever these courses are offered, the health science core standards (1-11) and benchmarks have been placed in a separate document. To access this document, visit this link:  
https://www.fldoe.org/file/20894/health-sci-core-psav-cc-2627.rtf

Course Number:  HCP0121
Occupational Completion Point:  B
Nurse Aide and Orderly (Articulated)	
12.0	Use verbal and written communications specific to nurse assisting.  The student will be able to:	
12.01	Obtain specified data from patient and family.	
12.02	Utilize verbal and written information to assist with the patient's plan of care. 	
12.03	Demonstrate use of the communication system.	
13.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities specific to Nurse Assisting.  The student will be able to:	
13.01	Discuss and demonstrate legal and ethical behavior within the nursing assistant scope of practice including role limitations in Florida.	
13.02	Describe the purpose of the chain of communication to resolve conflict.	
13.03	Follow policies and procedures affecting the health, safety, and well-being of patients.	
13.04	Demonstrate safe standards of patient care including prevention and quality of care 	
13.05	Exhibit behavior supporting and promoting patients’ and/or residents' rights.  	
13.06	Recognize potential for and prevention of medical errors.	
13.07	Practice the proper procedures to follow regarding medical errors.	
13.08	Follow policies and procedures affecting the health, safety, and well-being of patients.	
13.09	Recognize and report signs of substance abuse.	
13.10	Demonstrate the understanding of vulnerable population abuse and reporting procedures per agency.	
13.11	Define Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA).	
13.12	Define Minimum Data Set (MDS).	
14.0	Perform physical comfort and safety functions specific to Nurse Assisting.  The student will be able to:	
14.01	Implement appropriate regulatory and accrediting agency patient safety guidelines.  	
14.02	Maintain safe patient units, equipment, and a comfortable environment.	
14.03	Maintain service areas on the units including supplies and equipment. 	
14.04	Observe, report, and record changes in the patient's behavior as needed, including mental awareness. 	
14.05	Demonstrate adjustment of bed and side-rails according to facility policy.	
14.06	Demonstrate and assist patient to dangle.	
14.07	Demonstrate lifting, supporting and transferring patients from bed to chair, bed to bed, and bed to stretcher, including the use of the various assistive devices and equipment while utilizing proper body mechanics and patient safety measures	
14.08	Demonstrate the proper use of a gait/transfer belt in both transfer and ambulation.	
14.09	Assist patient in ambulation, including the use of crutch, cane, or walker.	
14.10	Demonstrate the proper wheelchair safety techniques and assist patient as needed with use.	
14.11	Apply supportive devices as directed (e.g., footboard, over-bed cradle, alternating pressure mattress).	
14.12	Assist patient with care and use of prosthetic/orthotic devices.	
14.13	Describe emergency procedures utilized in the clinical area(s) and the role of the nursing assistant in these procedures.	
15.0	Provide personal patient care.  The student will be able to:	
15.01	Perform bed bath; observe and report changes in a patient including skin and level of consciousness.	
15.02	Assist with shower or tub bath, including the use of specialty tubs or prepackaged disposable-bagged bath.	
15.03	Administer back rub with bath and as needed.	
15.04	Assist patient with hair care utilizing sink, tub, shower, bed or shower cap.	
15.05	Demonstrate the use of a safety and/or electric razor to shave the patient.	
15.06	Demonstrate how to groom patient, including hair, skin, foot, hand and nail care.	
15.07	Assist with and/or administer oral hygiene including denture care.	
15.08	Assist patient to dress.	
15.09	Assist patient with toileting using various types of restorative and rehabilitative equipment.	
15.10	Assist patient with use of bedpan (standard and fracture)	
15.11	Assist with bowel and bladder training.	
15.12	Assist and/ or provide perineal care.	
15.13	Empty, measure and record urinary output and/or drainage.	
15.14	Demonstrate application and use of a leg bag, leg strap and dignity bag.	
15.15	Monitor and assist with the drainage of urostomy bags and colostomy bags.	
15.16	Assist patient with both donning and doffing prosthesis and brace.	
15.17	Assist patient with meals.	
15.18	Describe the relationships of body systems when providing patient care.	
15.19	Recognize abnormal signs and symptoms of common diseases and conditions when providing patient care.	
16.0	Perform patient care procedures.  The student will be able to:	
16.01	Demonstrate ability to accurately measure, record and report vital signs. 	
16.02	Assist with the admission of a patient and/or resident.	
16.03	Assist with the admission, transfer, and discharge of a patient and/or resident.	
16.04	Maintain patient-belongings list.	
16.05	Make unoccupied/occupied bed.	
16.06	Provide passive range-of-motion exercises.	
16.07	Apply anti-embolic hose and sequential compression devices.	
16.08	Understand and demonstrate proper collection of routine, timed urine and clean catch urine specimens.	
16.09	Record fluid intake and output (I&O).	
16.10	Observe, record, and report patient's emesis.	
16.11	Monitor and provide urinary catheter care and drainage systems.	
16.12	Assist with ostomy care including emptying or changing ostomy bags that do not adhere to the skin.	
16.13	Collect stool specimen.	
16.14	Assist with the collection of a sputum specimen.	
16.15	Assist the nurse with care of the patient with complex medical needs.  	
16.16	Assist patient to apply binders.	
16.17	Care for patient in skin and skeletal traction.	
16.18	Assist with pre-operative and post-operative patient care.	
16.19	 Reinforce dressings under the supervision of the RN/LPN.	
16.20	Obtain and record an apical pulse.	
16.21	Provide cast care and/or pin care.	
16.22	Provide care for eyeglasses, artificial eyes, and contact lens.	
17.0	Apply principles of nutrition.  The student will be able to:	
17.01	Identify nutrients and food groups. 	
17.02	Develop a basic food plan.	
17.03	Describe special diets.	
17.04	Check patient's diet tray for accuracy.	
17.05	Monitor and document Nutritional Intake.	
17.06	Identify and implement regional, cultural and religious food guidelines/preferences.	
17.07	Demonstrate knowledge of the need for thickened liquids and fluid consistency.	
17.08	Identify methods of maintaining fluid balance including encouraging and restricting fluids.	
18.0	Provide care for geriatric patients.  The student will be able to:	
18.01	Identify and assist with methods and procedures to prevent pressure ulcers. 	
18.02	Identify and assist with methods to prevent falls in the elderly. 	
18.03	Identify and assist with safety principles as related to the elderly.	
18.04	Describe general characteristics, particular needs, and age related changes of the elderly.	
18.05	Identify attitudes and living habits that promote positive mental and physical health for the elderly.	
18.06	Distinguish between fact and fallacy about the aging process.	
18.07	Apply reality orientation techniques and validation therapy unless it is contraindicated by the patient diagnosis.	
18.08	Recognize and respond appropriately to symptoms of common diseases, including dementia, depression/suicide and Alzheimers.	
18.09	Provide and involve patients in diversional activities.	
18.10	Identify common alterations in elderly patient behavior.	
18.11	Provide care for patients with special needs (e.g., impaired hearing, impaired vision, immobility, impaired body functions, cognitively impaired (dementia)).	
18.12	Demonstrate awareness of common behaviors in drug use and abuse in the elderly.	
18.13	Report concerns to the nurse and appropriate authorities related to drug use and abuse in the elderly patient.  	
18.14	Identify the need for community resources and services available to the elderly and their caregiver.	
18.15	Identify components of the grief process. 	
18.16	Demonstrate an understanding of end of life care, hospice and palliative care.	
19.0	Apply the principles of infection control specific to nursing assisting.  The student will be able to:	
19.01	Discuss transmission-based precautions.	
19.02	Identify the chain of infection.	
19.03	Provide care for patients with infectious diseases applying the principles of "Standard Precautions" utilized with all patients as well as special procedures required.	
19.04	Apply the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for all types of isolation including donning and removing PPE appropriately.	
19.05	Follow isolation procedure with food tray, PPE, and other supplies/equipment.	
19.06	Collect specimen from patient in isolation.	
20.0	Provide biological, psychological, and social support.  The student will be able to:	
20.01	Discuss family roles and their significance to health.	
20.02	Respond to patient and family emotional needs.	
21.0	Perform supervised organizational functions, following the patient care plan.  The student will be able to:	
21.01	Organize and prioritize patient-care assignments.	
21.02	Complete assignments accurately and in a timely manner.	
22.0	Assist with restorative (rehabilitative) activities.  The student will be able to:	
22.01	List the purposes of restorative (rehabilitation) program.	
22.02	Assist patient with specified restorative (rehabilitation) needs.	
22.03	Assist patients/residents to reach the optimum level of independence.	

Course Number: HCP0810
Occupational Completion Point:  C 
Mental Health Technician – 315 Hours	
23.0	Demonstrate and implement knowledge of mental health, mental illness, including substance use/abuse and addiction.   The student will be able to:  	
23.01	Define and discuss mental health. 	
23.02	Define and discuss mental illness and contributing factors.	
23.03	Display understanding of The American Psychiatric Association, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).	
23.04	Display awareness of the current trends and issues in the field of mental health i.e., Healthy People 2020 Mental Health Objectives, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) www.healthypeople.gov .   	
23.05	Define and discuss substance use/abuse; addiction; co-occurring disorders and comorbidity.	
23.06	Demonstrate knowledge of the 10 classes of drugs with Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders including prevalence, risks, consequences, intoxication, and withdrawal.   
•	Alcohol
•	Caffeine
•	Cannabis
•	Hallucinogens
•	Inhalants
•	Opioids
•	Sedatives, Hypnotics and Anxiolytics
•	Stimulants
•	Tobacco
•	Other - synthetic drugs and bath salts   	
23.07	Implement knowledge of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, physical responses to stress, psychological responses to stress, ego defense mechanisms, stages of grief, and stages of growth and development while caring for the mental health patient.      	
23.08	Implement knowledge of cultural and spiritual considerations while caring for the mental health patient. 	
24.0	Identify the spectrum of interventions and treatment for mental health problems and the types of delivery of care in the stabilization and rehabilitation of the mental health patient.  The student will be able to: 	
24.01	Display knowledge of prevention programs (i.e., health wellness, stress management, drug education programs, campaigns, parenting programs etc.).	
24.02	Display knowledge of early intervention programs. 	
24.03	Display knowledge of different types of treatment and support including the following:
•	inpatient hospitalization: crisis intervention, detoxification, stabilization and case management 
•	partial hospitalization programs 
•	long term care facilities
•	community mental health centers and developmental disability centers 
•	clinics
•	residential facilities
•	mobile outreach units	
24.04	Describe and identify the multidisciplinary treatment team members and their roles in the stabilization and rehabilitation of the mental health patient. 	
24.05	Display knowledge of the chain of command at various treatment settings. 	
24.06	Describe the difference between an involuntary and voluntary admission.	
24.07	Display knowledge of Individual therapy, group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, education groups, support groups, and self- help groups. 	
24.08	Display knowledge of the process of recovery and relapse prevention. 	
24.09	Demonstrate knowledge of the various types of complementary and integrative therapies.	
24.10	Demonstrate knowledge of pharmacology treatment, side effects and be able to identify patient reactions.    	
24.11	Demonstrate knowledge of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). 	
25.0	Demonstrate an understanding of various mental health disorders, observable signs and symptoms and general interventions to be implemented by the mental health technician.  The student will be able to:   	
25.01	Discuss observable signs and symptoms and demonstrate general interventions to be implemented by the mental health technician for the following:  
•	Anxiety 
•	Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) 
•	Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders 
•	Substance Use and Addictive Disorders 
•	Schizophrenia and Psychosis 
•	Depression and Suicide 
•	Bipolar 
•	Personality Disorders 
•	Eating Disorders 
•	Neurodevelopment Disorders (i.e., autism spectrum disorder) and Neurocognitive Disorders (i.e., dementia)	
26.0	Provide therapeutic communication, knowledge of therapeutic relationship, and support for the mental health patient.  The student will be able to:  	
26.01	Ensure quality patient care by developing good rapport and understanding of patient’s needs.    	
26.02	Display empathy, respect and nonjudgmental attitude to foster trust.  	
26.03	Identify self-awareness issues that can enhance or hinder the mental health technician’s role in establishing rapport with the mental health patient. 	
26.04	Display knowledge and understanding of effective communication by discussing the communication process: (sender, message, and receiver).	
26.05	Convey simple, clear and direct communication when speaking with the mental health or developmentally disabled patient.                	
26.06	Display good listening skills (show interest and concern, establish eye contact, eliminate distractions etc.) when patient is speaking.    	
26.07	Apply knowledge of multicultural considerations while communicating.	
26.08	Demonstrate awareness of the mental health patient’s nonverbal cues and behaviors.	
26.09	Display knowledge of therapeutic communication techniques and nontherapeutic communication blocks.	
26.10	Differentiate between direct and open-ended questioning.	
26.11	Demonstrate communication techniques, which enable an effective exchange of information, ideas and feelings. 	
26.12	Reinforce and acknowledge patient of strengths, resources and that others care.	
26.13	Provide positive feedback for acceptable behaviors.         	
26.14	Obtain meaningful information that may require an appropriate nursing intervention.  	
26.15	Demonstrate professional relationship and communication with appropriate boundaries. 	
27.0	Perform skills and documentation related to caring for and supervising the mental health patient in various types of treatment settings.  The student will be able to: 	
27.01	Demonstrate HIPAA, confidentiality, legal, and ethical considerations while caring for the mental health patient.	
27.02	Provide safety and security measures for inpatient hospitalization including: 
•	room search 
•	frequent monitoring 
•	suicide and homicide precautions 
•	contraband check
•	elopement precautions
•	crisis intervention 
•	documentation of the above	
27.03	Provide safety and security measures for outpatient and residential facilities and display knowledge of outpatient emergency procedures.    	
27.04	Apply knowledge of infection control and blood borne pathogens on the mental health unit and while caring for the mental health patient.    	
27.05	Assist, supervise, and document the mental health patient’s:  vital signs, ADL’s (activities of daily living: hygiene, bathing, dressing, nutrition and elimination); group attendance, and interactions with staff, patients, and visitors.      	
27.06	Execute purposeful and productive interactions with patients and staff members. 	
27.07	Maintains and adheres to schedule on unit.  	
27.08	Maintain a professional atmosphere for a safe and therapeutic environment including respect for boundaries, use of touch, distance zones, set consistent limits especially with manipulative behavior, reports violations and exploitive behaviors immediately.    	
27.09	Demonstrate an understanding of subjective and objective observations.    	
27.10	Demonstrate observation and documentation skills of patient’s verbal and nonverbal communication, changes in thought processes, mood, and behavior.	
27.11	Demonstrate the ability to observe and document physical signs and symptoms of patient responses to medications, drug use or change in condition and change in vital signs.	
27.12	Record events accurately and be able to place event in time and sequence	
27.13	Perform a verbal report and communicate to nurse or team leader completely, accurately and immediately re: changes in patient condition, vital signs, mood and behavior. 	
27.14	Demonstrate correct documentation procedures and guidelines in regards to format, proper grammar and spelling, appropriate use of medical abbreviations, medical terminology, and types of charting utilized at different facilities.  	
28.0	Implement crisis intervention techniques and emergency services if necessary in the mental health setting.  The student will be able to: 	
28.01	Discuss the Five-Phase Aggression Cycle: triggering phase, escalation phase, crisis phase, recovery phase, and post crisis phase.	
28.02	Demonstrate vigilance in identifying behaviors that will initiate in increase in agitation and notify team members if observed.	
28.03	Assess suicide or homicide potential plan. 	
28.04	Access emergency services if necessary.        	
28.05	Utilize reality- oriented approach, active listening and attend to immediate needs. 	
28.06	Remain with individual who is experiencing panic anxiety.	
28.07	Demonstrate knowledge of de-escalation techniques: calm voice, reduce stimulation, verbal redirect, time out (quiet time-open seclusion) relaxation techniques, distract with positive activity, discuss alternative strategies etc.	
28.08	Enforce policies and procedures related to aggressive and destructive behaviors including establishing an understanding of acceptable behaviors with the patient and enforcing rules for unacceptable behaviors. 	
28.09	Demonstrate knowledge of facility’s crisis intervention policy and crisis team to be notified if de-escalation techniques fail, and patient escalates to physical aggression.     	
28.10	Discuss crisis intervention measures for Inpatient setting including:
•	“show of force”
•	locked seclusion
•	seclusion and restraints
•	use of prn medications 	
28.11	Demonstrate knowledge of restraint policy.  	
28.12	Assist with reintegration of patient to environment when stabilized and is able to participate.  	
28.13	Demonstrate vigilance in identifying clues of a patient’s suicidal intent – both direct and indirect and notify team member in charge. 	
28.14	Demonstrate knowledge of risk factors for suicide and discuss suicide assessment. 	
28.15	Recognize self-harm behaviors.  	
28.16	Discuss methods of suicide. 	
28.17	Discuss suicide ideation. 	
28.18	Demonstrate knowledge of notifying nurse/person in charge or emergency services if patient communicates suicide plan or describes means to carry out suicide plan. 	
28.19	Follow facility procedure for suicidal patient and access emergency services if necessary.       	
28.20	Supervise the safety of a suicidal inpatient by removing all potentially harmful objects and monitoring them closely during mealtime, medication administration, bathroom use, and activities.     	
28.21	Demonstrate knowledge of suicide precautions. 	
28.22	Demonstrate different levels of suicidal precautions as needed including 1:1 contact and constant visual observation, or every 15-minute checks and document.	
28.23	Demonstrate knowledge of no harm contract and limitations.   	
28.24	Encourage client to express honest feelings, including anger.	
28.25	Display and communicate that patient has value.     	
28.26	Perform room searches as necessary.  	
29.0	Participate as a member of a multidisciplinary team in the planning and implementation of care and treatment for individual patients.  The student will be able to:	
29.01	Relate unit problems and needs to the team leader, or head nurse as appropriate.	
29.02	Report violations of patients on unit and assist with issuing consequences.	
29.03	Contribute to the formulation of unit goals for individual patient.	
29.04	Participate in the planning, decision-making through staff meetings.	
29.05	Support hospital and residential policies and procedures as well as the procedure manual for the unit.	
29.06	Display understanding of the limitations of the role of the mental health technician. 	
29.07	Display cooperation when asked to change assignments or tasks. 	
29.08	Demonstrate ability to function independently without constant supervision.	
29.09	Show respect for coworkers and be able to interpret the organizational chart.	
29.10	Maintain own proper physical, emotional, and mental health through application of proper body mechanics, use of healthy coping mechanisms, ability to have self- awareness skills and seek healthy support when necessary. 	
29.11	Promote a healthy interpersonal relationship with peers - show respect and recognition by positive communication.	
29.12	Collaborate with other team members in proper application of the nursing process: (assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation).	
29.13	Accept direction and constructive criticism without becoming defensive.	
29.14	Demonstrate ability to assist and function in various unit capacity: clerical and resident manager roles (i.e., display telephone etiquette, escort patient, order supplies, simple filing & fax, copy machine ability).      	
30.0	Provide patient education and information on the various resources and support groups available for the mentally ill, substance using or addictive client, and family members.  The student will be able to:        	
30.01	Demonstrate and discuss knowledge of local support groups, community mental health centers and developmental disabled centers that provide support and assistance to patients and their families.   	
30.02	Demonstrate and discuss knowledge of 12- step program model for recovery. 	
30.03	Display knowledge of the various self- help groups and peer assistance programs that can help addicts with recovery and rehabilitation i.e., AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), NA (Narcotics Anonymous), MARA (Medication Assisted Recovery Anonymous), and OA (Overeaters Anonymous). 	
30.04	Demonstrate and discuss knowledge of 12 step self- help groups available for the family members and loved ones of drug addicts and alcoholics i.e., Al-Anon family groups and Nar-Anon family groups.   	
30.05	Understand the principles of 12-step program, 12 steps and traditions, anonymity, key slogans, and use of sponsor.	
30.06	Demonstrate and discuss knowledge regarding national and local organizations and services for mental health and substance use issues such as NAMI, SAMHSA, NIMH, Autism Speaks.org, WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) for patient and family information.   	
31.0	Conduct individual, group and family presentations / discussions to facilitate patient recovery and wellness.  The student will be able to: 	
31.01	Demonstrate thorough knowledge and preparation of content and information for subject matter of educational group discussion/presentation as well as be able to state the goal of the presentation/discussion.  	
31.02	Display awareness of demographics of group participants (gender, culture, age, socioeconomic etc.); awareness of participant’s cognitive and developmental stages, readiness for education on subject and comprehension ability. 	
31.03	Demonstrate awareness of group dynamics and group process.	
31.04	Communicate “ground rules” and expectations of the group.  	
31.05	Display ability to create and enforce ground rules and appropriate boundaries for group learning and education.   	
31.06	Demonstrate effective communication techniques (verbal and nonverbal) and use of possible role play, skits, handouts and     creative supplements of content to be discussed or presented. (Assure client safety and know possible “triggers”). 	
31.07	Display ability to effectively “close” the group or presentation. 	
31.08	Demonstrate knowledge of:  attendance record, points allocated for attendance and participation. 
31.09	Communicate to counselor or nurse any behaviors or verbalizations of patient that warrant further exploration or immediate attention.  	
31.10	Demonstrate ability to document patient attendance and observations in accordance to facility procedures and guidelines.                 	
31.11	Complete a post group self- analysis of one’s own strengths and weaknesses.  	
31.12	Assess modifications one would make for future group presentations. 	
32.0	Perform pharmacological aspects of care as directed (residential and assisted living facility settings).  The student will be able to:	
32.01	Demonstrate knowledge of 6 Rights of Medication Administration (right medication, right dose, right patient, right time, right route, and right documentation) and policies.   	
32.02	Observe and report side effects of medication.	
32.03	Supervise and document patient medication administration.     	
32.04	Encourage client to take prescribed medication. Document refusal. 	
32.05	Assemble information about properties of medications being administered, their potential side effects.	
32.06	Demonstrate knowledge of the client’s rights relating to taking or refusing medication. 	
32.07	Determine client's medication history from records or family in relation to re-allergic reactions.	
32.08	Assure adequate supply and safeguard storage of medications to prevent overdose.	
32.09	Assume responsibility for information transfer to/from oncoming shift and communicate concerns or changes to nurse or person in charge.  	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory investigations that include scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, emerging technologies, tools and equipment, as well as, experimental, quality, and safety procedures are an integral part of this career and technical program/course. Laboratory investigations benefit all students by developing an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills required to manage, operate, calibrate and troubleshoot equipment/tools used to make observations. Students understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data. Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students.

Special Notes

The Core should be taken first in the program. Following the successful completion of the core, the student is eligible to take the National Health Care Foundation Skill Standards Assessment with instructor approval and the completion of a portfolio.

The program focuses on broad, transferable skills and stresses understanding and demonstration of the following elements of the health care industry; planning, management, finance, technical and production skills, underlying principles of technology, labor issues, community issues and health, safety, and environmental issues.

This program meets the Department of Health’s education requirements for HIV/AIDS, Domestic Violence and Prevention of Medical Errors.  Although not a requirement for initial licensure, it is a requirement for renewal, therefore the instructor may provide a certificate for renewal purposes to the student verifying these requirements have been met.

If students who are successful completers of the Mental Health Technician program can seek further certification through The Florida Certification Board (FCB) for Certified Recovery Peer Specialist: (CRPS-A Adult, CRPS-F Family, CRPS-V Veteran); or Certified Community Health Worker or Certified Behavioral Health Technician, please refer to the FCB for requirements, policies, and procedures at www.flcertificationboard.org. Applicants and certified professionals are individually responsible for ensuring they are following current FCB policy and procedures. 

If students in this program are seeking a licensure as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), through The Department of Health, please refer to 456.0635, F.S. for more information on disqualification for the licensure through the Department of Health. 

Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

CTSOs are co-curricular career and technical student organizations providing leadership training and reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and Technical Student Organizations provide activities for students as an integral part of the instruction offered. Other CTSOs not listed in this curriculum framework or recognized by the Florida Department of Education are permissible provided they support student mastery over the standards and benchmarks of this curriculum framework.

Cooperative Training – OJT

On-the-job training is appropriate but not required for this program.  Whenever offered, the rules, guidelines, and requirements specified in the OJT framework apply. 

Basic Skills 

In Career Certificate programs offered for 450 hours or more, in accordance with Rule 6A-10.040, F.A.C., the minimum basic skills grade levels required for postsecondary adult career and technical students to complete this program are:  Computation (Mathematics) and Communications (Reading and Language Arts). These grade level numbers correspond to a grade equivalent score obtained on a state designated basic skills examination.  

Adult students with disabilities, as defined in Section 1004.02, Florida Statutes, may be exempted from meeting the Basic Skills requirements (Rule 6A-10.040).  Students served in exceptional student education (except gifted) as defined in s. 1003.01, F.S., may also be exempted from meeting the Basic Skills requirement.  Each school district and Florida College System Institution must adopt a policy addressing procedures for exempting eligible students with disabilities from the Basic Skills requirement as permitted in Section 1004.91, F.S.

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities to meet individual needs and ensure equal access. Postsecondary students with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their counselor and/or instructors. Accommodations received in postsecondary education may differ from those received in secondary education. Accommodations change the way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology and special communication systems. Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.

Note: postsecondary curriculum and secondary programs cannot be modified.