Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner CSU- 12h Shift Sat-Sun Every Other Weekend
Position Summary
The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in the Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) provides advanced psychiatric and medical care to individuals in acute behavioral health crises. The APRN collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to evaluate, diagnose, and manage mental health and co-occurring substance use conditions. This role includes medical oversight, psychopharmacological management, crisis intervention, and coordination of care from admission to discharge in a fast-paced, trauma-informed environment.
Key Responsibilities
Perform comprehensive psychiatric assessments including history, mental status exams, suicide risk assessments, and differential diagnosis.
Develop and implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with the client and treatment team.
Conduct medical screenings and physical exams to determine medical stability for CSU admission.
Order and interpret diagnostic tests and labs; initiate medical treatment or refer when necessary.
Prescribe and manage psychotropic medications according to best practices and agency protocols.
Monitor client response to medication and adjust regimens as needed.
Provide psychoeducation to clients and families about diagnosis, medications, side effects, and self-management strategies.
Document clinical interventions, progress notes, and treatment plans in the electronic health record (EHR) accurately and timely.
Provide immediate psychiatric support in behavioral health emergencies within the CSU.
Participate in and support de-escalation efforts, including serving as a clinical lead during crises.
Collaborate with the BERT (Behavioral Emergency Response Team) and other clinical staff to ensure safe and therapeutic outcomes.
Assess risk factors and participate in safety planning, discharge planning, and referrals for continuing care.
Serve as a clinical leader in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings.
Collaborate with psychiatrists, nurses, case managers, peer specialists, and support staff to coordinate and optimize care.
Communicate clearly with family members, external providers, and agencies to ensure continuity of care and community reintegration.
Consult with the Medical Director and/or supervising physician as needed, in accordance with scope of practice and collaborative agreement.
Qualifications
Education and Licensure: Master’s or Doctorate degree in Nursing from an accredited program. Current licensure as an APRN in the State of Georgia with a psychiatric/mental health specialty (PMHNP-BC).
DEA registration and prescriptive authority in Georgia.
Experience: Minimum two (2) years of clinical experience in a psychiatric setting; crisis or emergency psychiatric care preferred. Experience working with individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) and co-occurring disorders strongly preferred.
Skills and Competencies: Clinical expertise in psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and crisis stabilization. Strong communication, clinical documentation, and organizational skills. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-acuity setting. Commitment to recovery-oriented, client-centered, and trauma-informed care. Proficiency in use of electronic medical records (EHR).
Physical and Work Environment Requirements
Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
May require occasional lifting up to 25 pounds.
Must be able to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.
Work environment includes potential exposure to clients in acute psychological distress.