MAJOR DUTIES 1. Performs a comprehensive behavioral health nursing assessment and history to plan, provide and direct nursing care across the continuum of care. Utilizes appropriate interview skills to identify existing and potential problems, and formulates a nursing plan of care. Describes in writing the patient's appearance, emotional status, interaction with staff and/or family, and knowledge level of disease process. Utilizes and instruct others in the use of single and specialized equipment as appropriate to clinical area. Utilizes the nursing process to identify patient problems and generate nursing diagnoses; designs a plan of care, writes and implements nursing orders to achieve established goals, evaluates nursing interventions based upon the patients response to care, documents patients status on a continual basis and revises plan of care accordingly. 2. Develops and initiates an innovative teaching program for patients requiring special approaches. Teaches patient and family members regarding the disease process; treatment modalities; diagnostic procedures; use of equipment related to disease/care; expected and possible adverse reactions to medications; discharge planning; health maintenance; and illness prevention. Communicates progress and/or changes to the patient, family and members of the health care team. Initiates emergency measures as appropriate. Makes interdisciplinary referrals. Identify pending crisis situations and handle appropriately. 3. Administers many psychotropic and complex medications via the oral, intramuscular, subcutaneous, intradermal, topical, rectal, respiratory, intravenous routes. Makes independent judgments in the administration of PRN medication. Reinforces the basic knowledge of the patient regarding their prescribed medication regimen and the importance of compliance. 4. Develops and present classes related to psychiatric/behavioral health nursing to enhance the knowledge base of peers and subordinates. Participates as an active member in classes that are sponsored by other members of the multidisciplinary team; in that the classes are part of the program established for patient care. Participates in group and milieu therapy as well as individual therapies. Coordinates patient enrollment in experiential classes that are conducted by various members of the interdisciplinary team. Participates in inter-disciplinary team planning conferences. Serves as role model and teacher for other personnel, including experienced and fully trained nurses. 5. Directs the work of Psychiatric Technicians, Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered nurses, students and volunteers. Assumes charge nurse responsibilities as assigned PERFORMS OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED.