Job Summary
The Registered Nurse (RN) in the Psychiatric Emergency Room (Psych ER) provides specialized nursing care focused on mental health patients. This role involves conducting intake assessments, planning and implementing nursing care, administering medications including psychotropic drugs, collaborating with psychiatrists and behavioral health staff, and maintaining a safe environment for patients and staff. Strong documentation, communication, and adherence to treatment protocols are essential. The position requires at least two years of RN experience and valid New York State licensure.
Responsibilities
- Conduct intake assessments through interviews with patients and relatives to gather case history.
- Plan and provide nursing care for psychiatric patients.
- Make nursing diagnoses regarding patients' medical and emotional status and recommend treatment options.
- Consult with psychiatrists and behavioral health staff to design appropriate treatment plans.
- Administer and monitor reactions to psychotropic drugs and other medications.
- Arrange further medical attention when necessary.
- Assist clients in understanding emotional disturbances and accepting treatment.
- Maintain a safe and secure environment for staff and patients.
- Assess vital signs and manage pain treatments.
- Document all patient information accurately on medical charts and follow physician orders.
- Maintain patient confidentiality and proper medical recordkeeping.
- Perform administrative tasks such as filing, answering phones, typing, and completing progress notes in the computer system.
- Provide courteous, high-quality service to patients and the public.
Required Skills & Certifications
- Active Registered Nurse license in New York State.
- Minimum of two years RN experience, preferably in psychiatric or emergency settings.
- BLS certification from the American Heart Association (AHA).
- Strong clinical assessment and medication administration skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and accurate documentation.
Preferred Skills & Certifications
- Experience with telemetry monitoring.
- Experience using EPIC electronic medical record system within the last year.
Special Considerations
- Work involves psychiatric emergency care requiring calm and safety-focused approaches.
- Must be able to work holidays, on-call, and callback shifts as needed.
- Compliance with hospital policies regarding blocked weekend nights on inpatient units.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain TB skin test clearance.
Scheduling
- Straight night shifts.
- 48 hours per week.
- Shift assignments based on unit needs including holidays and on-call requirements.