Integrated Behavioral Health Nurse in Woodland Hills, California at BRIDGES Community Treatment Services, Inc.

General Responsibility:

Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the nurse plays a crucial role within the multidisciplinary team, supporting clients with severe mental illness. The nurse is responsible for ensuring medication compliance, managing "doctor day" preparations and follow-ups, and facilitating seamless communication between team members regarding medication and health-related matters. Key responsibilities include overseeing medication support activities, providing ongoing training to non-medical staff on assisting clients with self-administration of medications, conducting regular medication audits, and ensuring effective communication of any medication changes or health concerns.

The nurse also coordinates with external medical professionals, the pharmacy, and other care providers to ensure clients receive comprehensive health and medication management. Additionally, the nurse may provide direct care, including administering injections, coordinating lab work, and educating clients on health-related issues.

The nurse is expected to coordinate, lead, support, and help manage health and medication-related matters. This is done with support. Must be able to utilize team members effectively to support the efficient psychiatric and medication processes.

Further, this position is considered a role model and must always maintain professional boundaries.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

Medication Compliance & Support:

• Oversee and ensure proper medication management and compliance within the program.
• Provide medication support to the directors and clients, ensuring accurate administration and documentation.
• Guide, train, and monitor staff in assisting clients with the self-administration of medications.
• Conduct regular medication audits and ensure adherence to medication protocols.

Doctor Day Management:

• Coordinate all aspects of "doctor day," including preparation, client scheduling, and follow-up.
• Ensure that all necessary information, documentation, and client files are prepared in advance of appointments.
• Facilitate follow-up actions post-appointment, including medication order updates, lab work coordination, and addressing any issues that arise.

Communication & Coordination:

• Act as a liaison between the psychiatrist, external medical professionals, the pharmacy, clients, and the treatment team.
• Ensure timely and effective communication of any changes in medication orders, reported symptoms, and other relevant health information to the entire team.
• Review and document medication changes, PRN administration, and medication responses, ensuring that all staff are informed and able to assist clients in real-time.

Client Health & Education:

• Educate clients on their health conditions and encourage proactive management of their health.
• Administer injections and coordinate lab work as ordered by the psychiatrist.
• Review vital signs as needed and perform COVID testing weekly or as required.
• Provide health-related resources and link clients to appropriate services, either directly or indirectly by utilizing the team to assist.
• Educate clients and staff on the effects of substance use and other health-related topics.
• Education is provided through weekly medication support and education groups, individual meetings with clients, and offering direction and guidance to other team members to broaden our reach.

Team Collaboration & Training:

• Participate as part of the multidisciplinary team to assess client needs, develop care plans, and address co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
• Provide staff training and client education on medication management, substance use, and health maintenance.
• Document all services and interventions within agency timelines and by policy.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• Graduate of an accredited California nursing program.
• Current LVN/LPT/RN California License.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience, with at least 1 year working with clients with mental health issues.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a culturally diverse population.
• CPR/BLS certification and phlebotomy certification (with the ability to administer injections as needed).
• Reliable, trustworthy, flexible, and committed to maintaining high ethical standards.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Valid driver’s license, applicable auto insurance, and a good driving record that meets the Agency’s standards.
• Ability to obtain background clearance per Community Care Licensing requirements.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing training and professional development as assigned.
• Must pass a health screening with negative TB test results.
• Must be able to flex their time for working an occasional evening shift or Saturday when needed, as planned in advance.