Overview

In collaboration with the multidisciplinary treatment team, provides coordination, implementation and milieu observation in keeping with the general treatment mode of the program in which employed. The values of teamwork, respect and caring, effective use of resources, and initiative are integrated comprehensively into the performance standards in the Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) department. The position is an integral part of the team approach to patient care and performs various tasks and procedures to contribute to the safe and efficient flow of patients through the department.

Unity is founded on a mission of trauma-informed care and destigmatizing behavioral health diagnoses. Unity nurses strive to innovate and elevate behavioral health nursing through holistic treatment of our patients. Unity nurses apply their behavioral health specialty through high-level critical thinking, individualized patient care plans, early interventions, specialized assessments, and de-escalation and motivational interviewing techniques. Unity nurses maintain their physical health skills as part of our holistic treatment including attending to physical health needs such as assessment, wound care, and phlebotomy. We welcome nurses from all backgrounds to join our team who share our values of inclusion, kindness, and excellence and a heart for the behavioral health population!

As Oregon’s first and only Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) we provide emergent care to people experiencing a behavioral health crisis. The latest enhancement to our PES services – the introduction of the innovative Emergency Substance Use Disorder (ESUD) service. Embedded within our PES facility, the 9-bed ESUD is specifically designed to offer essential resources and comprehensive services for patients undergoing acute detox. Unity's PES is actively seeking qualified Emergency Room Registered Nurses with a passion for integrating ED nursing expertise with compassionate behavioral health support. We highly value candidates dedicated to implementing evidence-based best practices for substance use detoxification and embracing innovative approaches to holistic patient care.

Responsibilities

PATIENT CARE: As delegated by and under the direct supervision of an RN, provides care to patients and families in the Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) department. • Administers prescribed nursing interventions as directed by RN.• Collects patient data as directed by RN.• Obtains vital signs as directed by RN.• Assists with the transportation of patients.• As needed, assists with the activities of daily living (ADLs); such as toileting, physical transfers, daily hygiene, and assisting nursing staff of cleaning up of bodily fluids.• Provides comfort measures, e.g. positioning, extra blankets/pillows.• Provides for safety through use of low bed position, side rails, restraints as ordered, adequate lighting, slippers, identification of hazards, assisted ambulation.• Applies principles of body mechanics when positioning, transferring, and ambulating patients.• Under the direction of RN, may assist with chest compressions during CPR. May assist with application of EKG electrode placement, pulse oximetry placement, etc., as directed by RN.• Performs point of care lab testing and quality controls as needed.• Performs phlebotomy lab specimen collection as needed.• Assists with the discharge of patients which may include reinforcement of discharge teaching done by RN. COMMUNICATION: Uses appropriate communication skills in dealing with patients, visitors, EMS personnel and hospital personnel.• Communicates pertinent information regarding patients to appropriate RN.• Seeks assistance in understanding patient behavior.• Accurately documents patient belonging list using appropriate forms and standards.• Establishes rapport with patients, families, visitors, and other hospital personnel.• Gives directions to patients, families, and visitors in a courteous and clear manner. • Identifies administrative lines and reports pertinent information to the appropriate individual(s)

MILIEU OBSERVATION: Promotes therapeutic environment in department.• Follows appropriate de-escalation protocol based on training received on recognizing and reacting to potentially aggressive behavior.• Provides observation of patient behavior in order to provide a safer environment for the patient.• Alerts RN to potential escalation of behavior.• Provides for patient safety by recognizing subtle changes and initiating appropriate de-escalation standard practices.• Uses therapeutic communication skills when interacting with patients and families.

DOCUMENTATION:• Assures appropriate documentation in patient record for significant behavioral observations/interactions related to successful progress in treatment.• Informs staff of missing and/or needed documentation in patient record.

TEAM MEMBER:• Active participant in Code Grey procedures.• Is an active team member providing and supporting patient care.• Attends and participates in unit meetings.• Provides break and meeting coverage for the unit as scheduled. • Uses effective communication skills with team. Maintains productive relationships with co-workers at various sites and in the profession, keeping current with community resources.• Assists with clerical functions as needed.

Qualifications

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent. Training or coursework in behavioral health field preferred.

Experience:

One year clinical experience in a behavioral health setting; two year’s preferred. Acute care experience preferred.

Licensure/Certification:

AHA BLS for Health Care Provider required.

Skills:

Able to work in a fast-paced environment with ability to prioritize multiple assignments.

Strong interpersonal, organizational and problem-solving skills.

Keyboard skills and ability to navigate electronic systems applicable to job functions.

LEGACY'S VALUES IN ACTION:Follows guidelines set forth in Legacy's Values in Action.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disabled