Registered Nurse (RN) - PHP/IOP - PRN

The registered nurse (RN, RN II, RN III) performs professional nursing activities in the care of patients so they may achieve or regain, and then maintain, maximum physical, emotional or social functions. Role functions are governed by the Nurse Practice Act, the Administrative Code (in the state of employment), as well as the professional standards for nursing practice, and the corresponding policies and procedures of Rogers Memorial Hospital (Rogers).

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Complete initial assessments and documents as required.
• Collect, record, and analyze pertinent data for admission assessment according to Hospital policy.
• Involve patient's support systems (family, friends) in assessment and documentation.
• Act as an advocate for patients and explain patient rights.
• Assist in patient orientation process.
• Initiate and update treatment plan and documentation as required.
• Participate in planning and modifying the patient's plan of care.
• Participate in care conferences (staffings) and represent the nursing care component of the treatment plan.
• Develop and interpret plan of care with the patient/family, updating it as indicated.
• Review current lab data and follow-up with doctor.
• Evaluate potential for falls and initiate fall precautions, as indicated.
• Identify potential for self-abuse, suicidality and/or assaultive behavior.
• Assess changes in patient status and document interventions accordingly.
• Demonstrate safe and correct medication administration.
• Identify potential patient care problems, abrupt changes, or impending instability in the patient's condition, and exercise leadership to intervene appropriately.
• Use appropriate de-escalation techniques: quiet room; locked seclusion; restraints.
• Identify alcohol withdrawal syndrome.
• Identify extra pyramidal side-effects/neuroleptic malignant syndrome signs.
• Identify significant cardiac and/or respiratory symptoms requiring immediate medical intervention.
• Implement age-appropriate teaching interventions to meet educational needs.
• Organize patient care activities and interventions according to patient priorities and preferences.
• Adhere to the Nursing department and Hospital's standards of nursing practice and standards of patient care.
• Protect patients, visitors, and staff from environmental hazards by adhering to safety and infection control standards.
• Participate in continuing education and in-service programs to increase clinical competence.
• Participate in the Performance Improvement program on an ongoing basis.
• Serve on one unit-based committee or participate in unit-based projects on an ongoing basis.
• Assume charge nurse role: coordinate unit activities, take a leadership role in crisis situations, facilitate the admission process.
• Supervise and delegate tasks to LPN/psychiatric technician.
• Maintain a primary caseload, according to unit standards, and provide direction for patient care.
• Develop goals and objectives for professional growth and discuss ways to achieve them with Clinical Services manager.
• Promote department goals and the mission of the hospital.
• Demonstrate understanding of Joint Commission and other regulatory agency Compliance regulations.
• Conduct self in a professional manner.

Education/Training Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) preferred.
• Registered nurse licensed by State Board of Nursing in the state of employment. License must be in good standing.
• American Health Association Healthcare Provider CPR certification is required within thirty (30) days of date-of-hire. Bi-annual re-certification is required.
• Formal training in management of the aggressive patient is required within sixty (60) days of date-of-hire. Annual re-certification is required.
• Previous psychiatric experience with children, adolescents and adults is preferred.
• At the Hospital's discretion, may be required to hold a qualified medical professional (QMP) designation.
• Employees at the Child/Adolescent Day Treatment programs licensed under HFS §40 are required to have either training in psychiatric nursing, including training in work with children with mental health disorders, or one (1) year of experience working in a clinical setting with these children.