Crisis Stabilization Unit RN

Help others, make a difference, and save lives by providing direct medical care to clients in a residential Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU). This role involves working as a clinical member of a multi-disciplinary team to deliver treatment, rehabilitation, and support for clients, including those with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) and co-occurring issues.

About the Role

As a Crisis Stabilization Unit RN, you will provide direct medical care during 12-hour shifts in a 24/7 residential setting. This position requires adaptability to multi-task, work in varying crisis levels, and collaborate with Mobile Crisis and Walk-in Center teams. You must be prepared to work in all weather conditions, holidays, and remain awake and alert to monitor client safety.

The role demands certification and implementation of verbal and physical de-escalation techniques, including grasping, holding, kneeling, running, and walking. You will work closely with a multi-disciplinary team to meet client needs while adhering to clinical standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform initial admission nursing assessments and complete required paperwork, including nursing notes and orders.
• Update medication tabs, allergy lists, and complete paper MAR (Medication Administration Record).
• Obtain urine drug screens, BAL (Blood Alcohol Level), and pregnancy tests upon admission.
• Determine appropriate admission protocols (e.g., agitation, diabetic, hypertension) for each client.
• Obtain admission orders from on-call prescribers in a timely manner and complete charting for each client every shift.
• Complete transition paperwork, discuss medication and aftercare instructions with clients/families, and provide copies of documents.
• Count and document controlled substances at every shift change and report discrepancies immediately.
• Obtain and chart vital signs on every shift and monitor for significant changes in client condition/behavior.
• Administer scheduled, routine, and PRN medications in a timely manner and obtain blood sugars as ordered.
• Triage potential referrals with Mobile Crisis and Walk-in Center teams and coordinate arrival times for clients.
• Complete C-SSRS (Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale) on each client.
• Attend to client needs during medical emergencies (e.g., seizures, falls) and coordinate with Emergency Departments and EMS.
• Obtain prior authorizations and answer calls from recently transitioned clients regarding medication issues.
• Perform weekly medication counts of routine medications and update admission/discharge logs.
• Complete follow-up calls on weekends as required by program guidelines.
• Perform initial medical assessments within 30 minutes of client arrival and determine appropriate protocols.
• Monitor client vital signs and record them in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR).
• Administer medications accurately and safely following the 5 Patient Rights.
• Collaborate with the multi-disciplinary team to meet client needs and maintain clinical standards.
• Ensure correct Standing Orders/Protocols are noted for admitted clients.
• Attend mandatory staff meetings, maintain punctuality, and uphold good attendance records.
• Respond to flags, emails, and voicemails within 1-2 business days and return calls within 15 minutes.
• Assist with administering medications and providing staff coverage as needed.
• Communicate effectively with team members regarding client behaviors, needs, and relevant information.
• Promote an environment of respect for individual customs and spiritual beliefs.
• Approach conflict with a problem-solving mindset and communicate directly.

Requirements

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from an accredited college/university.
• Current and valid Tennessee RN license.
• Experience in psychiatric nursing and acute care preferred.
• Ability to exercise sound clinical judgment under pressure and communicate effectively (oral and written).
• Good time management and organizational skills.
• Basic computer skills; experience with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) preferred.
• Experience with interdisciplinary collaboration and care coordination preferred.
• Coursework or experience in cultural diversity, human development, primary care, mental illness, substance use, physical/sexual abuse, suicide, and intellectual/developmental delays.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of supervisory, administrative, and clinical skills.
• Certification in CPR, First Aid, and Handle With Care (HWC) required.
• Efficiency in computer skills, including Microsoft Office, fax machines, and phone systems.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and push/pull up to 150 lbs.
• Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, stooping, and reaching.
• Must remain awake and alert during shifts to monitor client safety.
• Certification and implementation of verbal and physical de-escalation techniques, including grasping, holding, kneeling, running, and walking.

Schedule

• 12-hour shifts (7 PM – 7 AM), rotating weekends, and scheduled holidays.
• Alternating weekly hours: 44 hours one week and 36 hours the next.
• Regular attendance is mandatory.

Pay

$31.51 hourly wage, with applicable shift differentials for eligible evening and overnight shifts.