For a Health Assistant (HA) working in a mental hospital in Nepal, the duties should cover basic clinical care, psychiatric patient observation, emergency support, documentation, and coordination with doctors and nurses. Nepal’s mental-health programme includes HAs as part of the health-care team, while HA practice is subject to professional standards and registration requirements.

Duties & Responsibilities – Health Assistant (Mental Hospital)

• Conduct initial patient assessment and record vital signs such as BP, pulse, temperature, respiratory rate and SpO₂.

• Take and maintain patients’ medical history, symptoms and treatment records.

• Monitor patients regularly and report any changes in physical or mental condition to the doctor/nurse.

• Observe patients for agitation, anxiety, aggression, confusion, self-harm risk, suicidal behaviour or other unusual behaviour and immediately report concerns.

• Assist psychiatrists, medical officers and nurses during patient examinations, treatment and emergency situations.

• Administer medicines and treatments as prescribed and within the HA’s authorized scope of practice, and monitor patients for adverse effects.

• Assist in managing psychiatric emergencies and provide basic first aid/initial care when required.

• Maintain a safe and supportive environment for patients, particularly patients who may be at risk of harming themselves or others.

• Support admission, transfer, referral and discharge procedures.

• Provide basic health education to patients and family members regarding treatment, medication compliance, hygiene, nutrition and follow-up care.

• Communicate respectfully and empathetically with patients and their families and help build trust with patients.

• Assist in therapeutic, recreational and group activities under the direction of the mental-health team.

• Maintain accurate and confidential patient files, observation notes, medication records, laboratory reports and registers.

• Coordinate with psychiatrists, doctors, psychiatric nurses, psychologists, counsellors and other health-care staff.

• Assist with laboratory investigations and other diagnostic procedures as instructed.

• Monitor general physical health, nutrition, hydration and personal-care needs of admitted patients.

• Assist in infection prevention, hygiene, sanitation and proper healthcare waste management.

• Support patient and family counselling/psychosocial activities within the HA's role and under appropriate supervision.

• Participate in ward rounds, case discussions and multidisciplinary team meetings when required.

• Assist with follow-up and referral of patients to appropriate health facilities or specialists.

• Maintain confidentiality, professional ethics and patient dignity at all times.

• Perform shift/night duties and respond appropriately to emergencies according to hospital protocols.

• Maintain medicine, medical equipment and other required supplies and report shortages or problems to the supervisor.

• Participate in training and professional development related to psychiatric and general healthcare.