Psychiatric Nurse (RN/RPN)

Vancouver Island Health Authority; Nanaimo; On-site; CAD 86,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Vancouver Island Health Authority is seeking a registered nurse or registered practical nurse to support adult mental health services. The role involves delivering clinical care to adults with severe mental illness in hospital and community settings, across all care phases.

The ideal candidate has 2–3 years of relevant mental health experience, BC registration, and a valid driver's license. The position supports multi-site operations with travel between sites.

Qualifications

• Registration with BC College of Nurses and Midwives as a practicing RN or RPN.
• Graduation from a recognized nursing program.
• Two to three years' direct relevant experience in adult mental health.

Responsibilities

• Provide clinical services to adults with severe acute or persistent mental illness in hospital and community settings.
• Deliver continuous care across all phases of treatment.
• Provide consultation and education to community agencies and participate in service development.

Skills

Mental health assessment

Clinical expertise

Community liaison

Interpersonal skills

Crisis management

Education

RN/RPN registration (BC College of Nurses and Midwives)

Graduation from recognized nursing program

Job description

Work Area (FBA Only)

Multi-Site

No

Travel Requirement

Travel between multiple sites may be required

Shift Start Time/End Time

07:00-19:05

Days Off

Rotating

Vacancy Type

Temp FT

Salary Range (Hourly Rate)

$41.42 - $59.52

Paid FTE

1.0

Worked BI-WEEKLY HOURS

75

Planned Start Date

Sep. 28 2026

Approximate End Date (For Temporary Assignments ONLY)

Pending Return of Incumbent

Yes

CRC required? (employee will be working with or have access to children or vulnerable adults and requires a Criminal Record Check)

Required for Professional Registration

Job Description

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority (Island Health) patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Under the supervision of the Director, Mental Health Services, the position, as part of the adult mental health services team, is responsible for the provision of services to adults with severe acute or persisting mental illness. The position provides clinical services to clients in both the Hospital and Community settings; provides services that are continuous in all phases of care and support; provides consultation and education to community agencies; participates in service development for the target population; and represents mental health services on various committees.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Training And Experience

Registration with BC College of Nurses and Midwives as a practicing RN registrant or a practicing RPN registrant. Graduation from a recognized nursing program. Two to three years' direct relevant experience dealing with adult mental health and a significant understanding of mental health issues pertaining to the adult mentally ill, the availability of programs and their function in delivering services to this population. A valid driver's licence.

Skills And Abilities

• Knowledge of mental health assessment, treatment methodologies, intervention strategies and community dynamics.
• Clinical expertise in the full range of mental disorders in adults.
• Understanding of linkages with community groups and government agencies.
• Tact, patience and flexibility.
• Ability to remain calm in crisis situations.
• Sound judgement.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Non-judgmental attitude.
• Autonomy and initiative.
• Team player.
• Ongoing study and knowledge of trends and developments in the field of mental health clinical practice.

A first in Canada: minimum Nurse to Patient Ratios (mNPRs) are here in BC! Island Health, alongside BC's other health authorities, is implementingmNPRsas a transformative staffing initiative that aims to improve the working environment of nurses in order to provide better quality care to our patients.