Description

American Traveler is seeking an experienced RN for a Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) position at an acute care facility in Iowa, requiring at least 1 year of RN experience and active IA or compact licensure.

Details

• Acute care psychiatric unit licensed for 10 inpatient beds, serving adults (18+) only
• Patient population includes those in psychiatric crisis, including suicidal ideation, psychosis, and other mental health conditions qualifying as a danger to self or others — violent patients or those with complex medical needs are not admitted
• Day shift staffing includes one RN, one LPN, and one tech; night shift includes one RN and one tech
• CNA support available 24/7; a psychiatrist or ARNP rounds daily from 8am–4pm with on-call coverage after hours
• No telemetry on this unit; IVs are used infrequently
• RN responsibilities include admissions, discharges, shift assessments, and medication administration; day shift has a heavier medication pass
• Physical restraints are used when a patient poses an imminent risk to self or others, most often via a restraint chair
• RT services are available if needed; RN administers treatments such as inhalers and nebulizers
• Charting via MEDITECH
• 13-week contract with three 12-hour night shifts per week
• Cyclic 6-week schedule, subject to change based on staffing needs
• Weekend rotation is approximately every 3rd weekend, subject to change
• On-call may be required in the event of low census, with the expectation to return if admissions are anticipated
• Floating is rare on this unit and typically limited to the CNA; may be required in very rare circumstances

Requirements

• Active Iowa (IA) or Compact RN license required
• Current certifications required: BLS and ACLS (AHA)
• Minimum 1 year of RN experience required
• BSN not required
• MEDITECH experience is a plus
• CPI or MOAB (Management of Aggressive Behavior) certification preferred within 6 months for longer assignments

Additional Information

• Candidates must reside more than 50 miles from the facility to be eligible
• Orientation consists of 1–2 shifts depending on experience level and comfort
• Staff are expected to arrive 15 minutes prior to shift for report
• Holiday coverage is required on a rotating basis, working approximately every other holiday
• Black scrubs are standard for RNs and LPNs; plain-color or mental health-themed T-shirts are acceptable; avoid hoodies or jackets with strings/hoods; sweatshirts are welcome as the unit can be cold
• Overnight support includes a house supervisor, with the director available for urgent needs
• The unit is described as a close-knit, supportive team environment with a passion for mental health care; candidates with the right personality and attitude are encouraged to apply even if psychiatric experience is limited