Psychiatric Triage RN

OverviewWill conduct assessments to determine the disposition that best addresses a patient's needs; Will provide clinical interventions which best support the patient's stabilization and resolution of the crisis or problem; Work with referral sources to facilitate admissions to the behavioral health unit(s) of the facility.ResponsibilitiesPatient Rights and Organization Ethics Ensures patient dignity and respects patient's values. Employee answers the phone in a courteous and efficient fashion, responding accurately to all requests for information and routine phone calls. As assigned, greets visitors, patients, and their families coming to the unit. Employee displays empathetic and helpful attitude. Operates within ethical standards. Schedules assessments and appointments accurately. Improving organizational Performance Identifies areas needing improvement and utilizes the facility performance improvement process. Actively participates in department processes as requested. Responds quickly and accurately to all intake calls to the unit. Accurately gathers and records information on intake form. Displays good communication and patient assessment skills. Communicates results and trends to Manager. Provides feedback to Manager on ongoing basis in regards to concerns, improvements, changes, etc. Care of Patient Monitoring and supervision of behavioral health patients in ER. Assessment, referrals and linkages for ER patients. Provide direct care such as crisis counseling, proving psychosocial support, assessment of danger to self or others and de-escalation. Management of the Environment of Care Ensures facility is safe and reports deficiencies to Manager. Continuum of Care Consulting with receiving ER or Psychiatric Emergency Services staff on medical clearance for patients being transferred for admission Provides resources and support for patient before, during and after treatment of patient. Coordinate admission between referral source and appropriate unit. Management of Information Request, gather and obtains information from all resources on patients in order to facilitate appropriate treatment decisions. Completion of Inquiry Form for each patient seen in ER and for each referral received during shift. Gathering / reviewing of clinical data on patients referred for admission Consultation with receiving facility psychiatrist regarding ER patients and referrals requesting psychiatric admission. Verification of insurance coverage and pre-certification for all psychiatric hospitalizations. Perform various clerical assignments and other duties as assigned by the Manager or appropriate staff. Ensures confidentiality of all information encountered Develops and maintains an effective department computer system Surveillance, Prevention and Control of Infection Utilizes universal precautions at all times to prevent and control infection General RequirementsDCH Standards :

• Maintains performance, patient and employee satisfaction and financial standards as outlined in the performance evaluation.
• Performs compliance requirements as outlined in the Employee Handbook
• Must adhere to the DCH Behavioral Standards including creating positive relationships with patients / families, coworkers, colleagues and with self.
• Performs essential job functions in a manner that ensures the safety of patients, visitors and employees.
• Identifies and reduces unsafe practices that may result in harm to patients, visitors and employees.
• Recognizes and takes appropriate action to reduce risks and hazards to promote safety for patients, visitors and employees.
• Requires use of electronic mail, time and attendance software, learning management software and intranet.
• Must adhere to all DCH Health System policies and procedures.
• All other duties as assigned.QualificationsMasters in Social Work (MSW), with licensure, Licensed Counselor, OR Registered RN If RN, BSN preferred. Current Alabama licensure required. Minimum two years' experience in a psychiatric setting preferred. Must have good communication and patient assessment skills. Must be able to read, write legibly, speak, and comprehend English.WORKING CONDITIONS :
• Environmental
• Potential exposure to communicable diseases and blood and / or body fluids.
• Requires wearing common protective or safety equipment
• CRT monitor exposure.
• Physical
• Sedentary work
• Periods of standing, walking, sitting; repetitive tasks / motions;
• Must have good manual dexterity.
• Physical presence onsite is essential.
• Hearing and vision must be normal or corrected to within normal range.
• Able to perform the duties with or without reasonable accommodation. Psychological
• Make decisions under pressure,
• manage anger / fear / hostility / violence of others appropriately;
• Must be able to manage stress appropriately,
• Handle multiple priorities, ability to work alone and work in areas that are confined and / or crowded