Mental Health Nurse Administrator - Residential - job 1 of 2

The Mental Health Nurse Administrator at Discovery Behavioral Health plays a critical role in overseeing nursing activities and ensuring compliance with facility regulations. Key responsibilities include supervising nursing personnel, teaching abuse prevention, managing medication administration, creating nursing care plans, and approximately interfacing with medical providers. The administrator is also responsible for resident orientation and progress monitoring, demonstrating a commitment to compassionate patient care.

Candidates for the Mental Health Nurse Administrator position at Discovery Behavioral Health must be graduates of an approved nursing program, hold a current nursing license, and preferably possess experience in behavioral health, eating disorders, or chemical dependency. RN licensure is highly preferred, as is Basic Life Support certification. Familiarity with medications, behavior change, recovery models, and treatment methods will also be essential for success in this role.

At Discovery Behavioral Health, Mental Health Nurse Administrators can expect a competitive compensation package ranging from $80,000 to $100,000 per year, along with excellent benefits. These include a 401(k), healthcare options, paid vacation and sick days, employee discounts, and opportunities for professional development, including resources to become a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and support for multi-state licensure.

The Mental Health Nurse Administrator at Discovery Behavioral Health works a full-time schedule, specifically Monday through Friday, from 6:30 am to 2:30 pm PST. This structured schedule is designed to allow for work-life balance while dedicating your time to making a meaningful impact in the lives of residents in our care.

The Mental Health Nurse Administrator significantly impacts patient care at Discovery Behavioral Health by supervising nursing staff, developing individualized care plans, and monitoring patient progress. This role involves training staff, ensuring high standards of care, and facilitating communication between residents and medical teams, thereby enhancing the overall treatment experience and fostering a supportive environment for recovery.

To ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, I would stay updated on the latest laws and industry guidelines, regularly audit facility practices, and engage in continuous education. I’d also foster a culture of compliance among the nursing staff by providing training and open channels for concerns or questions.

In my past roles, I successfully managed nursing teams by establishing strong communication, setting clear expectations, and encouraging collaboration. I prioritize mentorship to enhance team capabilities and foster a positive working environment focused on patient-centered care.

When conflicts arise within my nursing team, I approach the situation with empathy, facilitating open discussions to understand different perspectives. I aim to resolve issues collaboratively, keeping the focus on our shared goal of providing excellent patient care.

Effective medication management involves accurate tracking, regular audits, and continuous communication with pharmacy professionals. I promote adherence to protocols and provide staff with training on medication administration to minimize errors and ensure effective patient care.

I keep updated on best practices for mental health nursing by subscribing to relevant journals, attending conferences, and participating in ongoing training. Networking with fellow professionals and seeking peer advice are also integral to staying informed about industry developments.

When developing a nursing care plan, I first assess individual patient needs through comprehensive evaluations. I then involve the patient and their family in the planning process, ensuring that their preferences are taken into account while aligning with treatment goals.

My background includes designing patient education programs that focus on mental health awareness, coping strategies, and recovery models. I emphasize making education accessible and relatable, employing various methods including videos, workshops, and one-on-one discussions.

To assess the progress of residents, I would employ a combination of objective measures such as treatment goals and subjective feedback from patients and staff. Regular meetings with the treatment team and ongoing documentation play crucial roles in tracking individual progress effectively.

A nurse working in behavioral health and substance abuse needs to understand the complexities of addiction, treatment methods, and the importance of a non-judgmental approach. It’s crucial to stay informed about current therapies and to recognize the interplay between mental health and substance use.

My motivation in the mental health nursing field stems from a deep desire to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives. The opportunity to support patients on their recovery journey and help them regain control over their lives gives me immense fulfillment.