Performs a full range of professional nursing services, including assessing, planning, and evaluating patient care in accordance with the team treatment plan. Administers treatment as prescribed by physician and is responsible for teaching and providing psychosocial support to patients. Facilitates coordination of care while monitoring treatment adherence. Documents and reports patient status and progress to treatment team.

Responsibilities: 

Actively seek to provide quality services that meet the needs of patients as well as other clients, families, payers, referrers, and staff. Provide consultation, instruction, and direction to other clinical staff, students, and volunteers. Interview patients and will assess their functional level according to professional standards. Provide pre-admission screening as is required. Help to develop a professional treatment plan that meets patient needs and complements the services provided by other treatment teams. Provide professional nursing care to individuals and groups based on an understanding of the special needs of the patient population served. Performs medical treatments as prescribed by a physician or as is indicated by the patient's condition. Recognize common alterations in patient physiological and psychological status; initiates action as indicated to provide safe and therapeutic treatment. Instructs patients and families on mental health issues, treatments, procedures, plans of care, home care methods and techniques that are necessary for continuing patient care and rehabilitation. Complete written documentation of initial patient assessment and ongoing treatment and progress through discharge in compliance with program standards. Reports pertinent patient observations to treatment team. Participate in the evaluation of program effectiveness and efficiency and works to ensure continuous improvements in the quality of services.

Requirements: 

Knowledge on nursing theory, principles, and practice-a normally acquired through graduation of an accredited program of Nursing and/or 2-3 years of direct job related experience. Possession of a current license as a Registered Nurse in the State of Maryland at the time of appointment. Maintains professional knowledge and skills through attendance to professional meetings, workshops, courses, and in-service sessions. Analytical ability and sound nursing knowledge for the effective formulation of nursing care plans, implementation of care, and appropriate documentation of pertinent information regarding a patient's condition. Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact effectively with psychiatrically ill patients in order to gain their cooperation, allay apprehensions and provide effective health education to patients and family members. Ability to physically intervene in medical and behavioral emergencies, transport patients, and assist in the lifting of a patient.