A Licensed Practical Nurse or Vocational Nurse provides basic medical care under the direction of registered nurses and other healthcare specialists. The tasks that they are permitted to perform vary by state, but usually include changing bandages, checking blood pressure, or helping feed patients. May work in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare facilities.
Job Summary The Behavioral Health LPN provides specialized nursing care to patients experiencing psychiatric disorders, substance abuse challenges, and emotional trauma. This role combines clinical nursing skills with strong therapeutic communication to ensure patient safety, administer medications, and support psychiatric rehabilitation in a structured environment.
Key Responsibilities Patient Care:
Monitor patient behavior, mental status, and physical health continuously.
Medication Management:
Administer psychiatric and somatic medications accurately while tracking therapeutic responses and side effects.
De-escalation:
Apply crisis intervention techniques to manage aggressive, volatile, or self-harming behaviors safely.
Documentation:
Record vital signs, behavioral changes, nursing interventions, and treatment plan progress in electronic health records.
Group Support:
Lead therapeutic groups, educational sessions, and daily community meetings.
Collaboration:
Partner with psychiatrists, social workers, and registered nurses to implement individualized treatment plans.
Admissions/Discharges:
Conduct intake screenings, inventory patient belongings for contraband, and review discharge instructions with families.
Required Qualifications Education:
Graduate of an accredited Licensed Practical Nurse program.
Licensure:
Active, unrestricted LPN/LVN license in the state of practice.
Certifications:
Current BLS/CPR certification and crisis prevention training (e.g., CPI or MANDT) preferred.
Experience:
Minimum of 1 year of clinical nursing experience, ideally in a mental health or substance abuse setting. Essential Skills Strong therapeutic communication and active listening abilities. Deep knowledge of psychotropic medications and their potential side effects. Ability to remain calm, objective, and decisive during high-stress psychiatric emergencies. Excellent cultural competence and non-judgmental approach to diverse patient populations. Work Environment May include inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, detox facilities, or outpatient clinics. Involves shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Requires physical stamina to stand, walk, and assist with patient restraints or interventions when necessary. Join us to deliver compassionate nursing care that transforms lives! We value energetic professionals committed to excellence in patient care across all settings—making a meaningful difference every day!
Pay:
$28.00 - $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
