Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER

Job Description

Reports to: Executive Director and/or Medical DirectorFLSA Status: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY

The Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner works collaboratively with the psychiatrist/ Medical Director to provide client assessment and diagnosis, formulate treatment plans, prescribe medications, order laboratory tests, interpret test results, provide client education, and prepare medical records for Substance Use Treatment outpatient services. The Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner works under the supervision of the Psychiatrist/ Medical Director and the Executive Director.

DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES, & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

· Conduct psychiatric evaluations and assessments to determine clients' mental health needs.

· Prescribe and monitor psychotropic medications for clients.

· Collaborate with the clinical team to develop and implement treatment plans that address both substance use and mental health disorders.

· Provide education and support to clients and their families regarding medication management and mental health concerns.

· Document all client interactions and maintain accurate and up-to-date client records.

· Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including HIPAA.

· Orders laboratory tests, interprets and explains the test results to patients.

· May also provide primary medical care services as indicated, in accordance with statues, regulations and protocols regulating the profession.

· Performs similar or related duties as assigned or required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Masters of Science in Nursing, with a Psychiatric/Mental Health emphasis, from an accredited college or university.
• Licensure: Must be licensed as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
• Three (3) years of experience related to the above describe duties.
• Experience related to start up substance use treatment services.
• Knowledge of HIPAA regulations and other relevant laws and regulations.

COMPETENCIES

· Clinical expertise : The psychiatric nurse practitioner must have a deep understanding of the principles of psychiatric mental health nursing and substance use treatment. They must also be able to apply this knowledge to the individual needs of their clients.

· Medical expertise: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must have a strong understanding of medical conditions that can co-occur with substance use disorders. This includes conditions such as mental health disorders, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. The psychiatric nurse practitioner must be able to manage medical conditions in his or her clients. This includes prescribing medications, monitoring for side effects, and referring to specialists when necessary.

· Emergency and safety : understand and follow facility emergency and safety procedures, respond to emergencies in a safe and effective manner, provide first aid and CPR as needed, and maintain a safe and secure environment for clients and staff

· Overdose prevention : all staff need to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of an overdose and respond appropriately and need to be trained in the use of naloxone and other overdose reversal medications.

· Suicide risk and prevention : All staff need to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of suicide risk and respond appropriately and need to be trained in suicide prevention strategies.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and EXPERIENCE

· Cultural Competency: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must be able to understand and work effectively with clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds. They must be aware of the unique challenges and strengths of each culture, and they must be able to adapt their approach to meet the needs of their clients.

· Communication Skills: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must be able to effectively communicate with clients, both verbally and in writing. They must be able to listen actively, ask open-ended questions, and provide clear and concise feedback.

· Problem-Solving Skills: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must be able to identify and solve problems that arise in the treatment process. They must be able to think critically and creatively, and they must be able to develop and implement effective solutions.

· Organizational Skills: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must be able to effectively manage their time and resources. They must be able to meet with clients and complete paperwork.

· Flexibility: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must be able to adapt to change. They must be able to adjust their approach to treatment as needed, and they must be able to handle unexpected situations.

· Self-Awareness: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must be aware of their own biases and limitations. They must be able to identify their own strengths and weaknesses, and they must be able to use this knowledge to improve their practice.

· Empathy: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must be able to understand and empathize with their clients. They must be able to see the world from their clients' perspective, and they must be able to offer support and understanding.

· Respect: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must respect their clients' unique experiences and perspectives. They must be able to treat their clients with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances.

· Professionalism: The psychiatric nurse practitioner must maintain a professional demeanor at all times. They must dress and behave in a way that is appropriate for a professional setting, and they must uphold the ethical standards of their profession.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

· Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.

· Ability to walk up and down stairs during emergency drills or situations.