Mental Health Registered Nurse

Under direction of the Program Manager and the DON (Director of Nursing) and within federal, state, and local guidelines provides quality nursing care to individuals served using effective assessment skills while always maintaining ethical standards of nursing and individual confidentiality. Delivers care to individuals utilizing the nursing process of assessment, planning, intervention, implementation, and evaluation; and effectively interacts with individuals and other health care team members while maintaining standards of professional nursing.

This position will work closely with both the justice and court systems to ensure comprehensive services and coordination of care for individuals served.

Promotes the physical and mental health of individuals by applying nursing processes. This is done as a member of the interdisciplinary treatment team and has the goal of assisting individuals to assume responsibility of their own health. The nurse coordinates and monitors medical services, including psychiatric and medication services, in accordance with the requirements of regulatory agencies and in response to the individual's needs.

Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

• A high school diploma or equivalent and graduation from an accredited Nursing School required. Must have and maintain a current RN license with the Board of Nurse Examiners in the State of Texas.
• Three (3) years previous nursing experience and three (3) years prior experience working with persons with major mental illness preferred.
• Experience working on a multi-interdisciplinary team preferred.

• Must have and maintain a current R.N. license in good standing with the State of Texas Board of Nurse Examiners.
• Must be able to perform the techniques of Prevention and Management of Aggressive Behavior (PMAB).
• Must be able to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
• The ability to be mobile within the community to provide direct nursing services if needed.
• Must have and maintain a background and criminal history free from any disqualifying offenses as outlined by the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
• Must have and maintain a background and criminal history free from any disqualifying offenses as outlined by the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and automobile insurance.

oIndividuals with an out-of-state driver's license must be able to obtain a driver's license in the state of Texas within thirty (30) days.

• Successful completion of all position-specific training within thirty (30) days of employment is required.

• Knowledge of nursing techniques and procedures; of health care laws and regulations; of medical diagnosis and procedures; of accepted medical treatment programs; and of community health and nursing care principles, practices, and procedures.
• Knowledge and background in mental health services. Knowledge of serious and persistent mental disorders, personality disorders and substance abuse/dependence syndromes encompassed in the DSM-IV.
• Knowledge of common psychoactive medications used to treat neurobiological diseases of the brain.
• Skills in the care and treatment of individuals.
• Skillsthe operation of computers and applicable computer software.
• Ability to provide individuals care, to prepare and maintain records, to explain public health laws, to recognize patterns of medically necessary treatment, to communicate effectively, and to train others. Moderate mathematics skills. Proficient…