Registered Nurse (RN, Psych, Acute, Crisis) - Inpatient

Backus Hospital • Norwich, CT

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Backus Hospital is hiring a Registered Nurse to provide inpatient psychiatric care to adults experiencing acute psychiatric conditions on its Adult Behavioral Health unit. The unit offers a safe, therapeutic environment with individualized treatment plans, 24/7 support, and a focus on treating the whole person with empathy, respect, and collaboration.

The nurse is a key member of a multidisciplinary team, helping stabilize patients in crisis, supporting treatment and recovery, and preparing patients to transition safely back into their communities. The role is based at Backus Hospital and has a 3 p.m.–11:30 p.m. shift.

Backus Hospital has served Eastern Connecticut for more than 118 years. It is part of Hartford HealthCare, a system with acute care hospitals, behavioral health services, home care, senior services, and a medical group network.

Requirements

• At least 1 year of nursing experience; psychiatric or behavioral health experience is strongly preferred.
• Graduate of an accredited nursing school.
• Current Connecticut RN license.
• BLS certification from the American Heart Association.
• Ability to obtain and maintain CPI certification within 90 days of hire.
• Strong assessment skills and ability to respond quickly in crisis situations.
• Knowledge of psychiatric medications, side effects, and therapeutic interventions.

Nice To Haves

• BSN or MSN preferred.
• Psychiatric or behavioral health experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct nursing care to adult patients experiencing acute psychiatric conditions according to individualized treatment plans.
• Administer prescribed medications, monitor their effects, and educate patients about their use and importance.
• Conduct mental status assessments and risk evaluations, and monitor patients to help ensure safety.
• Coordinate holistic care with psychiatrists, social workers, therapists, and other nurses.
• Lead or assist with therapeutic group activities that promote coping skills, emotional regulation, and social interaction.
• Respond to psychiatric emergencies using trauma-informed de-escalation techniques.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in compliance with hospital policies and regulatory standards.
• Help stabilize patients in crisis, support their treatment, and prepare them for safe transitions back into their communities.

Benefits

• Automatic enrollment in the Nurse Residency Program for graduate RNs with less than one year of experience.
• Loan forgiveness for qualifying existing student loans.
• Employee assistance and wellness programs, including a focus on promoting mental health.
• Paid time off.
• Health insurance packages.
• Retirement plan.
• Supportive, team-oriented environment.
• Discounts on services, products, and optional coverages, including movie tickets, pet insurance, and travel.

What This Job Offers

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