Nurse, RN - Crisis Stabilization Program

OVERVIEWServes as the primary nursing position in the Crisis Stabilization Program, a 24/7 highly intensive mental health residential treatment facility for persons experiencing serious psychiatric or behavioral problems which jeopardize their current community living. This position assists the staff psychiatrist and nurse practitioner in the prescription, administration and monitoring of medication, discharge planning and general daily patient care. This position works an 8 to 10 hour shift on a rotating schedule, including weekends, and while on shift serves as the lead health care provider. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESConducts individual intake and follow-up interviews and performs physical, psychological and general social casework assessments on a scheduled basis, as well as on an emergency basis as needed.Conducts routine examinations daily, such as measuring blood pressure, pulse, temperature, weight. .Administers medications, including those administered by injection, daily or as needed by the residents. Collaborates with interdisciplinary team members, including psychiatrists, psychologists, nurse practitioners or program coordinator, to develop, implement, or evaluate treatment plans, including evaluating existing medications and recommending new medications. Educates residents, family members, and care givers about mental health and medical conditions, preventive health measures, medications and treatment plans while they participate in the Crisis Stabilization Program.Documents patients' medical and psychological histories, physical assessment results, diagnoses, treatment plans, prescriptions or outcomes daily.Prepares medical correspondence and reports.Regular and predictable attendance required.Orders, inventories and secures pharmaceuticals for use by program individuals; provides for adequate first aid supplies and materials at the Crisis Stabilization Program. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIESThorough knowledge of the principles, standards, practices and techniques related to psychiatric nursing. Thorough knowledge of the characteristics and precautions to be taken in the administration of psychotropic medication. Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques related to individual therapy and counseling practices for the mentally ill. Ability to coordinate and schedule therapy treatment services. Ability to accurately maintain patient medical records and prepare reports. Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with individuals, physicians, subordinates and others contacted in the course of work.TYPICAL EDUCATION, TRAINING AND WORK EXPERIENCEBachelor's Degree in Nursing and considerable professional experience in psychiatric nursing, or equivalent education/experience.LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATIONS State Certified Registered Nurse. Valid VA driver's license.