Behavioral Health Admissions Nurse

Description

ABOUT NEW HORIZONS OF THE TREASURE COAST

New Horizons is the largest mental health and addiction recovery provider on the Treasure Coast (and beyond), serving 15,000 children and adults annually through inpatient crisis services, 24-hour help line and mobile response team, and outpatient programs conveniently located across Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie counties. In addition, New Horizons assists 22,000 students in area schools, and we work closely with the courts, law enforcement, jails, and hospitals to help improve the health of individuals and the quality of life in our community.

GENERAL SUMMARY

We are seeking a Behavioral Health Admissions Nurse for our Screening Services which will be responsible

for completing nursing assessments for all clients presenting to Emergency Services for mental health or substance abuse concerns. Responsibilities including monitoring vital signs, evaluating for medical emergencies prior to admission, and collaborating with the multidisciplinary team to ensure safe and effective care coordination.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Conducts comprehensive nursing assessments and initial treatment plans utilizing the electronic health record for all clients presenting to Emergency Screening for substance abuse and/or mental health intervention, ensuring timely evaluation of physical and psychological status in coordination with the multidisciplinary team.
• Consults with the APRN on-call to review any medical concerns that may indicate the client is not appropriate for admission to the unit, ensuring clinical decisions align with safety standards and medical criteria.
• Reviews faxed referrals from area hospitals to verify medical stability and determine appropriateness for admission based on established exclusionary criteria. Completes nurse-to-nurse communication to clarify required information prior to acceptance or to document the rationale for denial.
• Ensures that Recovery Support Technicians (RST) accurately perform vital sign measurements, including blood pressure, respiration, pulse, oxygen level, and temperature, as well as BAL (Blood Alcohol Level) and UDS (Urine Drug Screen) testing. Provides coaching and guidance as needed to maintain clinical accuracy and adherence to protocol.
• Provides training to screening staff on appropriate procedures for assisting with client body searches during the admission process, emphasizing techniques that ensure safety while preserving the client’s dignity, privacy, and respect.
• Provides clear direction to staff regarding the management of clients placed in seclusion and/or restraints within the Screening Department, ensuring interventions are conducted safely and in accordance with agency protocols. Completes all required documentation in the electronic health record as outlined by agency policies and procedures
• Collaborates with the MD, PMHNP, or APRN to address emergency medication needs, including Emergency Treatment Orders (ETO) and pharmacological interventions for clients exhibiting acute withdrawal symptoms, to ensure the safety and stabilization of the clients and those around them.
• Administers ETO’s and prescribed oral (PO) medications as directed by the MD, PMHNP, or APRN, in accordance with clinical protocols and documentation standards.

Requirements

New Horizons will need you to have the following qualifications:

• Active State of Florida Registered Nursing License
• Experience working with vulnerable populations is preferred
• Current CPR/BLS certification is required.
• Must pass Level 2 Background through DCF and AHCA Clearinghouse. For more information, click on the link: https://info.flclearinghouse.com