Summary:

Performs a full range of professional psychiatric nursing services, including assessing, planning, administering, and evaluating patient care for child, adolescent, and adult patients in the day hospital.   Provides nursing care in accordance with team treatment plan. Communicates with patients* based on an understanding of the developmental needs of children, adolescents, and adults. Administers medical treatment as prescribed by physician and is responsible for teaching and providing psychosocial support to patients and their families. Provides day-to-day clinical direction to assigned Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA’s) and Mental Health Workers. Documents and reports patient progress to treatment team.

Requires:

Knowledge of nursing theory, principles, and practice and basic computer usage skills - acquired through graduation from an accredited program of nursing. Must have AHA approved Basic Life Support/CPR certification for healthcare workers at time of hire and throughout employment. Possession of a current license as a Registered Nurse in the State of Maryland at the time of appointment and continuously throughout tenure in position.  Maintains professional knowledge and skills through attendance at professional meetings, workshops, courses, and in-service sessions. Three to six months' experience, including nursing school experience, in order to acquire necessary familiarity with policies, nursing procedures, and techniques within assigned patient care area and meet the core competencies (as defined on the competency assessment form) required for working with child, adolescent, and adult eating disorders patient population. Analytical ability and sound nursing knowledge for the effective formulation of nursing care plans, implementation of care, and appropriate documentation of pertinent information regarding patient's condition.  Individual must be able to identify the need for assistance/supervision and seek out appropriate resources. Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with children, adolescent, and adult psychiatrically ill patients in order to gain their cooperation, allay apprehensions and provide effective health teaching to patients and family members (51-80% of work time). Working with severely ill psychiatric patients very frequently (51-80% of work time) produces a high level of stress and mental fatigue. Ability to physically intervene in medical and behavioral emergencies, transport patients, and lift patients (21-50% of work time).