LPN Day Shift

Western State Hospital, part of the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), is a 302-bed Joint Commission/CMS-accredited psychiatric facility nestled in the scenic Shenandoah Valley. Located just 30 minutes from vibrant university towns, our hospital serves adults with serious mental health needs and is nationally recognized for our Psychosocial Rehabilitation “Learning” programs. We are a leader in behavioral health care innovation and patient-centered outcomes, committed to recovery, self-determination, and wellness for all individuals we serve.

About the role

Western State Hospital is currently seeking Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to provide direct patient care in a safe, therapeutic environment for a diverse patient population in a 24/7 psychiatric hospital. LPNs will adhere to established care and treatment policies, demonstrating a clear understanding of patient-specific needs. A $3,000 sign-on bonus is available for LPNs who are new to DBHDS or who have not been employed with DBHDS within the past year.

Schedule

This position works a set 12-hour shift on a two-week schedule: 36 hours one week and 48 hours the following week (or vice versa). Available shift: 7:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

Shift differentials:

• 1st shift (weekends and holidays): $3.00/hr
• 2nd shift (weekdays, weekends, and holidays): $3.50/hr

Responsibilities

• Provide work direction to PNA staff under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN).
• Maintain accountability for a safe, secure, and therapeutic environment.
• Foster healthy interpersonal interactions within various units (adult acute admissions, geriatric, and extended rehabilitation).
• Observe, document, and report on patient treatments, behaviors, and overall wellbeing.
• Administer medication and treatments while ensuring continuity of care through effective communication.
• Promote health and wellness education and monitor the functionality of equipment.
• Perform skilled nursing care for patients with complex mental and physical conditions within the scope of an LPN license.
• Monitor and document vital signs in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Assist individuals with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
• Provide one-on-one direct observations.
• Utilize de-escalation techniques to manage behavioral situations.

Pay

Salary range is a minimum of $56,115 up to a maximum of $77,439.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off:
  • 13 Paid Holidays
  • 12 Vacation Days
  • 8 Sick Days
  • 4 Family/Personal Days annually
• Comprehensive Insurance Options:
  • Low-cost, comprehensive Anthem or AETNA health insurance
  • Short & Long-Term Disability Coverage
  • Group Life and Optional Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Career Development & Financial Perks:
  • Continuing Education Support
  • Training Opportunities
  • Exclusive State Employee Discounts

Requirements

• Current LPN license eligible for use in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Knowledge of illness and treatment modalities, including medication administration.
• Ability to implement a nursing care plan and provide guidance to other staff.
• Ability to delegate and supervise nursing staff.
• Effective communication skills (written, verbal, and sign).
• Ability to participate in an interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care.
• Ability to work overtime due to staffing emergencies in a 24-hour, 7-day-per-week psychiatric hospital, which may include working a 16-hour shift if necessary.
• Complete all annual competency training, including TOVA III with physical restraints.
• Maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification for Healthcare Providers with the American Heart Association.
• Demonstrated knowledge of recovery/trauma-informed care.

Additional Considerations

• Psychiatric nursing experience.
• Veteran or Veteran spouse status.
• Bilingual in Spanish.