Facility

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center

Location

Fayetteville, North Carolina

Department

Adult Psych Unit

Job Family

Nursing

Work Shift

Days (United States of America)

Summary

Facilitates quality patient care through utilization of resources and maintains systems and procedures which enhance staff ability to deliver quality patient care. Position consists of flexible shifts to include weekends and holidays.

Major Job Functions

The following is a summary of the major essential functions of this job.  The incumbent may perform other duties, both major and minor, that are not mentioned below.  In addition, specific functions may change from time to time:

• Completes daily patient assignments

• Rounds with the physicians

• Acts as point of contact for the physicians and administrators

• Serve as resource to staff nurses, nursing assistants, monitors techs and unit secretaries

• Assists with procedures, checks orders

• Responsible for daily QC and equipment checks on unit

• Evaluates daily patient acuity

• Assists the PCM in evaluating personnel work performance in terms of performance criteria and staff relations

• May assist with development of monthly staff schedule

• Assists with clinical education of staff members in the absence of Clinical Educator/Preceptor

• Rounds on patients and family members at regular intervals

• Interfaces with Care Coordinator and discharge planning

• Interfaces with Patient Placement and nursing supervisors

• Expected to take patient assignment when other staffing options have been exhausted

• Implement process as defined by the Hospital Innovation Project (HIP)

• Facilitate and monitor staff performance relative to Press Gainey/HCAAPS

• Carries cell phone to facilitate improved and timely communication

• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

The following qualifications, or equivalents, are the minimum requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of this job:

Education and Formal Training: 

• Associates in Nursing required

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred

• Current licensure as a Registered Nurse in North Carolina required

Unit Description

• The APU Unit is a 32-bed facility designed specifically to provide help to patients and their families during periods of acutely exacerbated psychiatric illness in the CFVHS service area.
• The unit is a short-term treatment program with an average length of stay of 5-10 days. Some patients are under Involuntary Commitment (IVC) status.
• Target population: Adults (18+) experiencing acute mental health crisis, including but not limited to:
  • Psychotic disorders (e.g., Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder)
  • Mood disorders (e.g., Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder)
  • Anxiety disorders (e.g., Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder)
  • Substance use disorders with co-occurring mental health conditions
  • Personality disorders with acute exacerbations
  • Trauma-related disorders (e.g., PTSD)
• Services Provided:
  • 24/7 Nursing Care: Registered nurses provide continuous monitoring, medication administration, and support.
  • Psychiatric Evaluation and Treatment: Board-certified psychiatrists conduct comprehensive assessments, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medication.
  • Individual Therapy: Psychotherapists offer one-on-one counseling to address individual needs and promote coping skills.
  • Group Therapy: Facilitated group sessions provide a supportive environment for patients to share experiences, learn coping mechanisms, and develop social skills.
  • Medication Management: Close monitoring and adjustment of medications to ensure effectiveness and minimize side effects.
  • Case Management: Connecting patients with aftercare resources, including outpatient therapy, support groups, and community services.
  • Milieu Therapy: A structured therapeutic environment designed to promote healing and recovery through daily activities, social interaction, and therapeutic programming.
  • Crisis Stabilization: Focus on de-escalating acute symptoms and developing strategies for managing future crises.
  • Discharge Planning: Collaborative planning with patients and their families to ensure a smooth transition back to the community and continued support.

• Unit Features include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Secure Environment: Designed to ensure patient safety and prevent elopement.
  • Therapeutic Environment: A calm and supportive atmosphere conducive to healing.
  • Common Areas: Spaces for meals, group activities, and socialization.
  • Private or Semi-Private Rooms: Accommodations for patients.
  • Outdoor Areas: Opportunities for fresh air and recreation.
  • Our Care team consists of: Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists, Residents in the Psychiatric Residency Program, Psychotherapists, Nurse Practitioners/Physician Assistants, Recreational Therapists, Registered Nurses, and Behavioral Health Technicians.

Work Experience: 

• 3 years of psychiatric clinical experience required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required: 

• Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking the English language

• Demonstrates positive interpersonal skills 

• Verbal and written skills required 

• Effective organizational, teaching and leadership skills

Physical Requirements: 

• Visual and auditory acuity required

• Able to articulate clearly and succinctly

• Much standing, walking, bending, and lifting

• May involve skin, eye, mucous membrane, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious material

• Must be able to lift 35 pounds

Required Licenses and Certifications

RN - Board Of Nursing

Cape Fear Valley Health System is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity