Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Job Summary: The incumbent in this position is responsible for providing psychotherapy and medication evaluation and management to a range of clients having mental illness, mental retardation and substance abuse disorders under the supervision of consulting psychiatrist(s). The position also provides evaluation, treatment planning and discharge planning services for consumers in psychiatric facilities and those being diverted from state hospital admissions.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conducts therapy, medication assessments, and crisis response to new and existing clients.
• Obtains and documents patient's medical history. Identifies health risk factors.
• Develops individual service plans based upon assessment data and provides therapeutic interventions as necessary including the provision of on-going medication management services.
• Provides consultation and health education to agency staff, caregivers and clients as it is relative to the treatment and medication needs of agency consumers.
• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.
• Issues medication prescriptions in accordance with treatment guidelines.
• Orders and interprets diagnostic tests within established scope of practice.
• Refers patients for inpatient care, in collaboration with collaborating psychiatrist and behavioral health director, as necessary.
• Demonstrates the ability to prescribe medications pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, Louisiana State Board of Pharmacy and Drug Enforcement Agency and non-pharmacological therapies based on the patient's diagnoses, health history and age.
• Maintains documentation of services including service plans, progress notes, medication informed consent, quarterly treatment plan reviews, and other required information in compliance with organizational and regulatory compliance standards.
• Always applies standardized care guidelines in clinical practice.
• Provides patient and/or family with mental health education, counseling and referrals to other healthcare professionals and community resources when appropriate.
• Assesses and documents patient and/or family psycho-social issues.
• Treats patients and families with respect and dignity.
• Collaborates with physicians and other members of the health team to plan optimal care for the patient.
• Other duties as reasonably assigned

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Education: Master’s degree from an accredited Nurse Practitioner's Program

Experience: Current Advanced Practice Registered Nurse license in the State of Louisiana in good standing as a PMHNP.

Computer Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).

Other Requirements:

• Ability to communicate in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Able to perform minor office surgeries, apply splints, I&D
• BLS Certification required
• Current, valid DEA and CDS licenses required