01/03/2022
The purpose of this position is to evaluate and treat individuals in crisis and individuals with severe mental illness. Other duties include obtaining and implementing physician work orders and notifying appropriate parties of changes of condition. The work is performed under the supervision of the Head Nurse and Director of Nursing.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Works with physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers as part of the treatment team.
2. Utilizes the nursing process for assessment, planning, implementing and evaluating both psychiatric and medical illnesses, including substance abuse.
3.Evaluates patients for response to treatments and medications. Monitors patient vital signs, observes patient for changes in behavioral or medical conditions and responds appropriately, responds promptly and effectively in a therapeutic manner, obtains and implements physicians orders and completes all assigned work in a timely manner.
4. Responds to resident/patient emergencies including psychiatric emergencies, critical illness, fire alarms, etc. Evaluates situations and takes appropriate action.
5.Prepares and implements patient/resident care plans and maintains complete and accurate patient/resident charts for treatments, medications, etc.
6. Administers oral medications, intramuscular and intravenous injections, range of motion exercises, catheterizations, enemas, other treatments and charts according to policies and procedures.
7. Provides consultation and referral information to other counties and facilities, psychologists, psychiatrists, law enforcement, community treatment teams, crisis intervention teams, hospital medical staff and prospective patients and families for potential admission of person to Norwood Health Center. Screens prospective admissions. Ensures admissions comply with procedure and required forms are complete.
8. Supervises work performance of subordinate nursing staff for proper technique, quality of care issues and use of equipment, materials and supplies. Reviews subordinates’ chart recordings for accuracy. Prepares written evaluations. Conducts staff in-service and new staff orientations. Occasionally needs to participate in disciplinary process of subordinate staff.
9. Converses with patients to assure they are comfortable. Explains recovery progress, therapies, treatments, medications and changes in medication. Answers resident’s request for assistance.
10. Communicates and interacts professionally, effectively and tactfully with the residents, visitors, families, peers, referral sources, community staff, crisis and supervisors.
11. Answers questions and complaints from family members. Notifies families regarding patient needs for personal items such as clothing, glasses, etc.
12. Participates in facility committees regarding nursing care as assigned. Attends and participates in staff meetings and in-services. Attends and participates in continuing educational seminars, conferences, workshops, etc.
13. Orders medications, supplies and materials.
B. OTHER JOB DUTIES
1. Assists residents in eating, toileting, ambulating, repositioning and other daily living tasks. Arranges transportation as needed. Tidies patient rooms.
2. Assists in subduing and/or restraining agitated and/or violent patients, as needed.
3. Distributes meals and snacks.
4. Keeps work environment clean and organized and answers telephone.
5. Staffs the unit, maintaining safety and fiscal responsibility.
6. Acts as administrative charge for entire facility in the absence of Director of Nursing, Administrator or Client Services Manager.
Job Qualifications:
Associate degree in Nursing, one to two years nursing experience, preferably in behavioral health, or any combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills and abilities. Wisconsin Registered Nurse license required.
