Lead Registered Nurse

Overview

Responsible for overseeing all clinical and medical operations within the 23-Hour Crisis Receiving Center (CRC) and the Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU). This includes managing nursing services, ensuring regulatory compliance, providing supervision and training to nursing staff, and coordinating medical and psychiatric care for youth in crisis (ages 5–17) and their families.

All work aligns with the Crisis Now Model, emphasizing rapid access, warm hand-offs, and systems collaboration to ensure the right care at the right time.

Responsibilities

Clinical Oversight & Operations

• Conduct and/or delegate rapid medical/nursing assessments for all youth admissions.

• Ensure continuous 24/7 nursing coverage and quality clinical services.

• Oversee medication management, physician orders, and coordination with psychiatric providers.

• Provide and supervise crisis and safety planning, discharge coordination, and health education.

• Respond to medical and psychiatric emergencies.

Program Management

• Develop and manage nursing schedules; fill shifts when needed.

• Attend interdisciplinary and management meetings.

• Ensure policies and procedures meet VA DBHDS and other regulatory standards.

• Lead continuous quality improvement efforts and audit clinical documentation.

Supervision & Staff Development

• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate RNs and LPNs.

• Participate in hiring, training, and performance management.

• Provide onboarding for new clinical staff and ensure ongoing professional competency.

• Maintain certification as a VA Medication Administration Trainer.

Compliance & Quality

• Maintain HIPAA and accreditation standards.

• Oversee medication dispensing and record-keeping accuracy.

• Evaluate and enhance work processes for compliance and quality outcomes.

Community & Client Support

• Facilitate coordination of care and community linkage upon discharge.

• Support crisis intervention and connect families to resources.

• Participate in the on-call rotation for crisis services.

Qualifications

• Education: Registered Nurse (RN); APRN or PMHNP preferred

• Licensure: Unrestricted RN license in Virginia; DEA registration required if applicable

• Experience: 5 years clinical experience including crisis and leadership roles

• Certifications: CPR, First Aid, pharmacology, VA Medication Administration Trainer

• Skills:

  • Strong leadership and supervisory abilities

  • Excellent communication and crisis management skills

  • Knowledge of trauma-informed care and DBHDS/DMAS standards

  • Proficiency in MS Office and electronic health record systems

Additional Requirements:

• Valid Virginia driver’s license and clean driving record

• Successful completion of background check and fingerprinting