Registered Nurse (RN, Acute) - Adult Inpatient

Backus Hospital • Norwich, CT

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Every day, over 40,000 Hartford HealthCare colleagues come to work with one thing in common: Pride in what we do, knowing every moment matters here. We invite you to become part of Connecticut’s most comprehensive healthcare network. Step into a role where compassion meets crisis, where your presence brings stability, and where your clinical expertise transforms someone’s most vulnerable moment into a turning point. As a Behavioral Health Emergency Room Nurse, you are a frontline advocate, healer, and stabilizer for patients in acute psychological distress. This is fast‑paced, unpredictable, deeply meaningful work—and it’s where you shine.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited nursing school (BSN or MSN preferred)
• Current Connecticut RN license
• BLS certification by the American Heart Association
• Ability to obtain and maintain CPI certification within 90 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Resilient, emotionally intelligent nurse who thrives in complex, unpredictable situations.
• Natural de-escalator with exceptional communication and crisis-management skills.
• Compassionate professional who understands the importance of dignity, respect, and trauma-informed care.
• Someone who brings calm, clarity, and confidence to behavioral emergencies.
• A team player who builds trust across interdisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide rapid, trauma-informed assessment for patients experiencing psychiatric emergencies, including acute psychosis, suicidal or homicidal ideation, severe anxiety, substance intoxication, withdrawal, and behavioral crises.
• Use expert de-escalation techniques to diffuse volatile situations and maintain a safe environment for patients, staff, and families.
• Develop and implement immediate crisis-stabilization plans, collaborating with psychiatrists, social workers, and emergency staff.
• Administer psychiatric medications, facilitate emergency interventions, and provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
• Conduct suicide risk assessments, safety planning, and continuous monitoring for high-risk patients.
• Support families and caregivers with clear guidance, empathy, and education during emotionally charged events.
• Document thoroughly and quickly, capturing behavioral observations and interventions while navigating a dynamic ER environment.

Benefits

• Automatic enrollment into the Nurse Residency Program for all graduate RNs with less than one year of experience.
• Loan forgiveness for qualifying existing student loans
• Employee assistance and wellness programs including a strong focus on promoting mental health
• Paid time off and health insurance packages
• Discounts on services, products and optional coverages – movie tickets, pet insurance, travel and more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree