LPN or RN, Crisis Unit

Reports to: RN Program Manager, Substance Use

Location: Heritage Behavioral Health Center, Decatur, IL

Schedule: Full-time, Rotating days including holidays and weekends (6:00 AM - 6:00 PM)

Position Overview:

Heritage Behavioral Health Center is seeking a full-time Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to provide care to patients with mental health and behavioral health needs. The nurse supporting the Crisis Unit will play a critical role in the coordination, administration, and monitoring of medications, as well as supporting the overall health and wellness of patients in both the crisis unit and residential rehabilitation settings. This position will involve collaboration with pharmacy services, preparation and distribution of self-administered medications, and wellness checks for patients. The nurse will not be primarily located on the 4th floor but will work closely with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive patient care.

This is a full-time position requiring a commitment of 40 hours per week, rotating 12-hour shifts (6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.), alternating between three shifts one week and four shifts the next.

Core Responsibilities:

Nursing Care

• Collaborate with Behavioral Health staff to ensure proper observation and support of patients in the Crisis Unit and Residential Rehabilitation settings during self-administration of medications
• Work closely with the pharmacy to ensure medications are available and appropriately prepared for use in the crisis unit and residential rehabilitation settings
• Facilitate referrals and linkage to appropriate healthcare services for patients requiring ongoing medical care or support
• Conduct group wellness sessions for residential rehab clients every Wednesday morning on any wellness topic of choice, focusing on promoting mental, physical, and emotional health
• Conduct regular wellness checks to monitor patients' physical health, including vital signs, symptoms, and any concerns related to their mental health or crisis recovery
• Document and report any significant changes in patient condition or behavior
• Administer medications according to provider orders and established protocols
• Communicate effectively with the Crisis Unit staff to provide updates on patient status, medication needs, and any medical concerns
• Assist with triage, assessment, and coordination of care by collaborating with healthcare professionals to address a variety of urgent healthcare concerns
• Support the delivery of urgent care services, including basic wound care, vital sign monitoring, and medication administration as needed, while maintaining a patient-centered approach

Medication Management & Support

• Administer prescribed medications (including long-acting injectables) as ordered
• Monitor for adverse reactions and report concerns to appropriate medical staff
• Provide medication education to support safe and effective medication use
• Coordinate with pharmacy to ensure timely refills and medication availability

Care Coordination & Communication

• Communicate clearly with providers regarding changes in patient condition or care needs
• Facilitate referrals and linkage to appropriate medical and behavioral health services
• Collaborate with team members to address urgent medical needs and support timely care
• Assist with triage support and coordination of follow-up care

Documentation & Compliance

• Ensure timely, accurate, and complete documentation in the electronic health record
• Maintain organization of supplies, medications, and nursing tools across settings
• Support adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and care standards

Performance Expectations / What Success Looks Like

The RN or LPN will be successful in this role when:

• Clients receive timely, coordinated, and compassionate care across clinic settings
• Medication administration and monitoring are accurate, safe, and well-documented
• Communication with providers and team members is clear, proactive, and effective
• Care is organized, efficient, and responsive to client needs
• Clients and team members feel supported, respected, and engaged in the care process

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to engage individuals and reduce barriers to accessing care
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to problem-solve, multi-task, and manage a high level of activity
• Ability to work both independently and within a multidisciplinary, team-based environment
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to respond effectively in urgent or emergency situations
• Strong customer service skills and a compassionate, patient-centered approach

Education and Experience:

• Active, unrestricted State of Illinois Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensure and a minimum of two years of nursing experience
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Compassionate and empathetic demeanor with a commitment to patient-centered care

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $28-$35 per hour (based on experience)

Sign-On Bonus: RNs are eligible for a $7,000 sign-on bonus and LPNs are eligible for a $5,000 sign-on bonus, each with a 1-year service commitment. Bonuses are paid out in increments within the first 6 months of employment.

Heritage also offers the following with this position:

• Generous Time Off: Vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave
• Wellness Benefits: Every other Friday off (paid), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and fitness reimbursement
• Insurance: Health, dental, vision, flex spending accounts (healthcare, dependent care), and additional life insurance
• Retirement: 401(k) and Roth options
• Professional Growth: Tuition assistance and continuing education opportunities