Registered Nurse - Nursing Residency Program - CMHHIP - Pueblo

Position: Registered Nurse I - Nursing Residency Program - CMHHIP - Pueblo

Registered Nurse I – Nursing Residency Program – Full Time

Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP) is hiring for a certified Registered Nurse I who will participate in a one‑year RN Residency Program. The program is open to Colorado residents and non‑residents who will relocate to Pueblo at their own expense. The position offers a 4% short‑staffing temporary pay differential and may be line‑billed to the unit in which the applicant applies.

About

CMHHIP

CMHHIP is a 24‑hour acute‑care behavioral health facility that provides evaluation, treatment, and recovery support for patients with psychiatric and medical issues. The goal is to restore patients to their optimal level of functioning and, when appropriate, return them to community life.

RN Residency Program Objectives

The one‑year residency program will provide novice RNs with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to deliver high‑quality mental‑health care in a safe, secure environment. The curriculum includes clinical mentorship, practical hands‑on experience, evidence‑based projects, and formalized learning objectives.

Clinical Direction

• Lead and direct all nursing staff on assigned unit and shift in collaboration with the Lead Nurse.
• Coordinate staff assignments based on acuity and staffing resources.
• Communicate personnel needs, changes, and safety concerns promptly.
• Serve as charge nurse, reporting injuries, absences, or safety incidents to the Lead Nurse.
• Maintain compliance with CMHHIP policies, psychiatric and medical standards, licensure requirements, and governing bodies.

Department Standards

• Establish and maintain nursing standards of care for assigned shift.
• Adhere to the CDHS Code of Conduct and CMHHIP Code of Ethics.
• Facilitate timely communication of policies, updates, and challenges to staff.
• Support cross‑disciplinary collaboration and operative coordination.
• Ensure accurate staffing levels and adherence to hospital procedure for all shifts.

Staff Development / Competencies

• Mentor, train, and provide leadership to assigned staff.
• Promote professional development and compliance with mandatory training.
• Guide the use of electronic systems (BEHR, Cornerstone) and various clinical manuals.
• Act as a resource for staff regarding regulatory guidelines and best practices.

Patient Care / Nursing Care

• Deliver nursing care on assigned shift while maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment.
• Respond to psychiatric and medical emergencies, including seclusion and restraint monitoring.
• Ensure accurate medication administration and patient identification.
• Adhere to Infection Control standards.
• Apply nursing care plans and update documentation as needed.
• Educate patients and families regarding medication, self‑care, and treatment plans.
• Provide coverage and maintain a secure milieu for all patients.

Other Duties as Assigned

• Complete additional responsibilities requested for the shift, unit, or department.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must hold a valid, active Registered Nurse license issued by the State of Colorado or be part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact. All other qualifications must be disclosed in the application.

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduated from a nursing program within the past 12 months.
• No prior nursing work experience.
• No prior employment at CMHHIP.
• Strong work ethic, self‑motivation, honesty, integrity, adaptability, and reliability.

Highly Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Licensure maintenance and health‑care best practices.
• Customer/personal service knowledge and assessment.
• Undergraduate knowledge of psychology, behavioral disorders, and nursing processes.
• Active listening, effective communication, critical thinking, and problem‑solving.
• Proficiency in electronic documentation, Microsoft Office, and database software.

Conditions of Employment

• Full background check, including CBI & FBI fingerprint, court database, Medicare Fraud, Trails, and TB screening.
• Direct contact with vulnerable adults, requiring adherence to local statutes and safety protocols.
• Variable shift schedule, with immediate reporting for emergencies.
• Biweekly pay, required CTI & CPR, defensive tactics training, and physical competence for restraint situations.
• Annual influenza vaccination and English fluency.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to a workplace inclusive of all qualified individuals.

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