RN/LPN
About The Position
The Inpatient Nurse at RiverValley Behavioral Health Children’s Hospital provides essential nursing care and support to children and adolescents ages 5–17 experiencing acute psychiatric crises. The nurse works as part of an interdisciplinary team in an 80-bed, private, not-for-profit inpatient psychiatric hospital, administering medications, conducting assessments, responding to crises, and supporting individualized treatment goals in a trauma-informed, CARF-accredited environment. The position ensures compliance with applicable state, federal, and CMS regulations for inpatient psychiatric care in a pediatric population. The role is listed as full time, with PRN options also available. Day or night shift options are available, and additional compensation is offered for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The position is based in Owensboro, Kentucky, with occasional travel.
Requirements
- Associate or bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited institution.
- Current, unrestricted Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) license in Kentucky.
- Strong clinical assessment skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities and a compassionate approach to patient care.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Verbal, writing, and analytical skills.
- Knowledge of organizational principles, nursing strategies, and health-law foundations.
- Ability to make complex decisions.
- Maintain required training and certifications, including Mandt System and BLS/CPR; BLS training is provided.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; additional compensation is offered for a BSN.
- Previous experience in pediatric or adolescent mental health nursing is strongly preferred.
- Experience in a hospital or inpatient setting is a plus.
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification preferred.
Responsibilities
- Deliver nursing care to youth in an acute inpatient psychiatric setting.
- Assess patient needs, implement appropriate nursing interventions, and respond effectively in emergencies.
- Administer medications, monitor side effects, and document outcomes in accordance with hospital policy.
- Conduct nursing assessments and participate in daily rounds and team meetings.
- Collaborate with the multidisciplinary treatment team to implement person-centered treatment plans.
- Provide therapeutic interventions and emotional support during behavioral crises using de-escalation techniques.
- Ensure timely and thorough documentation in the electronic medical record.
- Maintain accurate medication administration records (MARs) and comply with medication safety protocols.
- Supervise and guide Behavioral Health Technicians (BHTs) as assigned.
- Educate patients and families on medication regimens, discharge planning, and continuity of care.
- Adhere to infection control and safety protocols and CARF standards.
- Participate in quality improvement activities and audits to support regulatory compliance.
- Respond to medical emergencies and provide first aid and basic life support when required.
- Maintain required training and certifications, including Mandt System and BLS/CPR.
- Support a therapeutic milieu through consistent structure, supervision, and positive role-modeling.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, and Telehealth.
- Paid time off and 9 holidays.
- Retirement plan options.
- Tuition reimbursement and free continuing education units (CEUs).
- Clinical supervision.
- Wellness and employee assistance programs.
- Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)-eligible employer.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
Associate degree
