Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Registered Nurse - RCSU- Suffolk, VA

Job Description

Position Summary :

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) plays a vital role in providing compassionate, trauma-informed nursing care within a 24 / 7 Residential Crisis Stabilization Unit (RCSU). This position supports individuals experiencing acute behavioral health crisis by delivering comprehensive clinical services including medication administration, nursing assessments, documentation, vital signs monitoring, coordination of care, and health education. Given the small, home-like setting (currently serving up to four individuals), this role also includes light housekeeping and meal preparation to support a safe, dignified, and recovery-focused environment.

Must be able to work Full Time- 8 : 00 am - 4 : 00 pm or 4 : 00 pm-12 : 00 am

Key Responsibilities :

1. Medication Management

Administer medications in accordance with physician orders and established protocols.

Monitor and document medication effectiveness, side effects, and adverse reactions using the electronic medical record (EMR).

Ensure compliance with medication storage, handling, and documentation standards per DBHDS and facility policy.

2. Clinical Documentation

Accurately record all nursing interventions, assessments, and observations in the EMR.

Document vital signs, behavioral changes, treatment responses, and nursing notes in real-time.

Maintain compliance with Medicaid and DBHDS documentation standards for timeliness and completeness.

3. Vital Signs Monitoring

Obtain and record vital signs at admission, throughout the resident’s stay, and at discharge per medical orders.

Conduct routine physical assessments (e.g., skin integrity, respiratory rate, auscultation of heart / lungs).

Document refusals and any follow-up actions as required.

4. Nursing Assessments

Complete nursing assessments on admission, focusing on non-psychiatric medical concerns that may impact treatment.

Assess for communicable diseases (e.g., tuberculosis screening) and general health status.

Monitor and document pain levels, mental / emotional status, and significant health changes.

Communicate findings promptly to the Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Director, initiating referrals as appropriate.

5. Coordination of Care

Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team (QPPs, QMHPs, LPNs, and others) to develop and implement individualized service plans (ISPs).

Assist with discharge planning and coordination of follow-up care, including education for residents and their families / support systems.

Ensure continuity of care through accurate communication and timely handoffs between shifts and services.

6. Residential Support & Environmental Safety

Maintain a clean, safe, and therapeutic residential environment in alignment with DBHDS standards.

Assist with light housekeeping and meal preparation, including supporting residents during shared meal times or when dietary needs arise.

Participate in basic facility upkeep as part of a team-based approach to residential care.

Provide health education on medications, chronic conditions, hygiene, and post-discharge care.

Follow all infection control procedures, including the implementation of standard precautions.

7. Compliance and Safety

Adhere to DBHDS, DMAS, and facility regulations governing crisis stabilization services.

Ensure all clinical services and documentation align with Medicaid reimbursement standards.

Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and healthcare privacy regulations.

Qualifications : Licensure :

Current and unrestricted Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) license issued by the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Preferred Experience :

Prior work in behavioral health, crisis stabilization, psychiatric residential, or community-based settings.

Key Competencies :

Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills.

Proficient in EMR systems and clinical documentation standards.

Effective interpersonal, communication, and de-escalation skills.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Flexibility and willingness to assist with daily living needs and non-clinical tasks.

Work Environment :

This position operates within a home-like residential crisis stabilization facility providing 24 / 7 care. Nurses must be flexible to work a variety of shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. The role requires calm, compassionate engagement with individuals in emotional distress, as well as a practical, team-based mindset. You may be called upon to assist with meal preparation, cleaning, and other day-to-day tasks that contribute to a dignified, supportive environment for healing and recovery.