The DeKalb Regional Crisis Center provides crisis intervention and stabilization services for adults. The Center offers three levels of care starting with the Crisis Services Center unit that receives walk-ins, transfers from emergency rooms, and involuntary referrals for evaluation.
If further observation is needed, individuals are monitored in the Temporary Observation Unit for 12-24 hours.
Individuals needing a longer period of stabilization or substance withdrawal management (usually 5-7 days) are admitted to the Crisis Stabilization Unit where ongoing care includes crisis counseling, medication, and assistance with discharge planning.
Position Summary:
The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) at the BHCC provides advanced psychiatric and medical care to individuals in acute behavioral health crises. The APRN collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to evaluate, diagnose, and manage mental health and co-occurring substance use conditions. This role includes medical oversight, psychopharmacological management, crisis intervention, and coordination of care from admission to discharge in a fast-paced, trauma-informed environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Clinical Assessment and Evaluation:
• Perform comprehensive psychiatric assessments including history, mental status exams, suicide risk assessments, and differential diagnosis.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with the client and treatment team.
• Conduct medical screenings and physical exams to determine medical stability for Temp Observation or Crisis Stabilization admission.
• Order and interpret diagnostic tests and labs; initiate medical treatment or refer when necessary.
Psychiatric Treatment and Medication Management:
• Prescribe and manage psychotropic medications according to best practices and agency protocols.
• Monitor client response to medication and adjust regimens as needed.
• Provide psychoeducation to clients and families about diagnosis, medications, side effects, and self-management strategies.
• Document clinical interventions, progress notes, and treatment plans in the electronic health record (EHR) accurately and timely.
Crisis Intervention and Management:
• Provide immediate psychiatric support in behavioral health emergencies within the BHCC.
• Participate in and support de-escalation efforts, including serving as a clinical lead during crises.
• Collaborate with the BERT (Behavioral Emergency Response Team) and other clinical staff to ensure safe and therapeutic outcomes.
• Assess risk factors and participate in safety planning, discharge planning, and referrals for continuing care.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
• Serve as a clinical leader in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings.
• Collaborate with psychiatrists, nurses, case managers, peer specialists, and support staff to coordinate and optimize care.
• Communicate clearly with family members, external providers, and agencies to ensure continuity of care and community reintegration.
• Consult with the Medical Director and/or supervising physician as needed, in accordance with scope of practice and collaborative agreement.
Compliance and Professional Practice:
• Maintain licensure and certifications required to practice as an APRN in the State of Georgia.
• Adhere to legal, ethical, and regulatory standards including HIPAA, OSHA, DBHDD regulations, and agency policies.
• Participate in internal audits, quality assurance, and performance improvement initiatives.
• Engage in continuing education and professional development activities relevant to psychiatric practice and crisis stabilization.
Qualifications:
Education and Licensure:
• Master's or Doctorate degree in Nursing from an accredited program.
• Current licensure as an APRN in the State of Georgia with a psychiatric/mental health specialty (PMHNP-BC).
• DEA registration and prescriptive authority in Georgia.
Experience:
• Minimum two (2) years of clinical experience in a psychiatric setting; crisis or emergency psychiatric care preferred.
• Experience working with individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) and co-occurring disorders strongly preferred.
Skills and Competencies:
• Clinical expertise in psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and crisis stabilization.
• Strong communication, clinical documentation, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-acuity setting.
• Commitment to recovery-oriented, client-centered, and trauma-informed care.
• Proficiency in use of electronic medical records (EHR).
Physical and Work Environment Requirements:
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• May require occasional lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Must be able to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Work environment includes potential exposure to clients in acute psychological distress.
Pre-employment drug screening and successful completion of a criminal history background check is required.
