MHAS Nurse RN/RPN - Intake - (210520)

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of Island Health (Vancouver Island Health Authority), patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Reports to the Clinical Coordinator or designate. Works within the organization's framework and standards, and a rehabilitation/recovery focused model. As a member of an inter-professional care team, the Mental Health and Addictions Nurse - Intake provides central intake, advanced nursing and clinical assessments, intervention, treatment, and referral for clients experiencing mental health and alcohol & drug addiction problems and their caregivers/families. Liaises with general practitioners, psychiatrists, in-patient units, community mental health services, and other healthcare providers and agencies to provide services that are continuous in all phases of mental health, alcohol and drug addiction, and concurrent disorders care and support. Travel may be a requirement of this position. Transportation arrangements must meet the operational requirements of the Vancouver Island Health Authority in accordance with the service assignment and may require the use of a personal vehicle.

QUALIFICATIONS: Education, Training And Experience

Registration with BC College of Nurses and Midwives as a practicing RN registrant or a practicing RPN registrant. Recognized post-basic education related to psychiatric nursing and/or mental illness; Two (2) years recent related experience; A significant understanding of mental health and/or alcohol and drug use issues; Knowledge of applicable legislation, such as the Mental Health Act and the Guardianship Act; Knowledge of available programs, their interrelationships, and their function in delivering care in the community to persons with mental illnesses; Knowledge of mental health and/or alcohol and drug use assessments, treatment methodologies, intervention strategies, the change process, and community dynamics; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Valid BC Driver's License.

Skills And Abilities

• Ability to apply nursing process as required and described in BC College of Nurses and Midwives Standards of Nursing Practice.
• Demonstrate competence congruent within the organization's framework and standards, and a rehabilitation/recovery focused model, as a member of an inter-professional care team, the care and treatment of concurrent disorders.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated organizational, problem-solving, and teaching skills.
• Demonstrated judgment, good observation and client assessment skills, tact, and empathy.
• Work collaboratively as part of an inter-professional team.
• Promote positive change and independence.
• Prioritize and organize workload.
• Ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Operate a personal computer with a variety of Windows-based software.
• Foster good public relations.
• Operate related equipment.