Mental Health Nurse (RN/RPN) - (205479)

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.

Under the general direction of the Manager or designate, this individual serves as the Mental Health Nurse in a specialized rehabilitation hospital or community MHSU locations. As part of a Multi-Disciplinary Rehabilitation Team, the Mental Health Nurse provides direct nursing care, core mental health services including assessment, treatment, harm reduction information and education, rehabilitation, and support for patients in partnership with client, family and community health care resources. In response to an identified client rehabilitation plan, develops, plans, implements, and maintains a full range of clinical services and client centered rehabilitation programs consistent with current standards of professional practice. Contributes to monitoring and enhancement of the physical site.

QUALIFICATIONS: Education, Training And Experience

A minimum of one year's recent psychiatric nursing experience with adults with a variety of mental disorders, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Registration with BC College of Nurses and Midwives as a practicing RN registrant or a practicing RPN registrant. Current CPR certification required.

Knowledge of Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) model; assessment and treatment and case management methodologies; learning theories of mental disorder and intervention strategies.

Knowledge of relevant mental health and legislation including legal statutory boundaries governing consumer rights.

Skills And Abilities

• Ability to assess, plan, implement and evaluate mental health treatment programs;
• Ability to administer and monitor the side effects of psychotropic medications and to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team environment;
• Ability to practice initiative, good interpersonal, crisis intervention, leadership and teaching skills and effective communication and counseling with individuals, families and groups;
• Ability to manage aggressive behaviour and to use non-violent crisis intervention and behavioural management techniques where appropriate.
• Travel is a requirement of this position and transportation arrangements must meet the operational requirements of the Vancouver Island Health Authority.