Assertive Community Treatment Nurse (RN/RPN)

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of Island Health (Vancouver Island Health Authority), patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Under the general direction of the team leader or designate, serves as a Mental Health & Addictions Nurse in a multidisciplinary Assertive Community Treatment or intensive outreach team. Services are primarily provided in community settings but may also occur in facility settings as required. Provides core mental health and addictions services including assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, and support for clients in partnership with client, family and community health care resources. In response to an identified client rehabilitation plan, develops, plans, implements, and maintains a full range of clinical services and client centered rehabilitation programs.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training And Experience

Graduation from a recognized nursing program plus a minimum of one year's recent psychiatric nursing experience with adults with a variety of mental disorders. A minimum of six months of experience supporting mental health clients in a community setting or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Registration with BC College of Nurses and Midwives as a practicing RN registrant or a practicing RPN registrant. Current CPR certification required.

Knowledge of Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) model; assessment and treatment and case management methodologies; learning theories of mental disorder and intervention strategies. Knowledge of relevant mental health and addictions legislation including legal statutory boundaries governing consumer rights. Knowledge of community mental health and addictions programs, services, resources and promotion. Knowledge of other health disciplines (including primary care physicians) and their role in client care.

Skills And Abilities

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing;
• Demonstrated ability to use the nursing process in mental health treatment programs i.e. such as assess (physical, mental/physiological/functional and environmental), plan, implement, make decisions, organize, prioritize, evaluate and communicate as required;
• Ability to administer and monitor the side effects of psychotropic medications;
• Ability to work independently in a community setting;
• Ability to work effectively and cooperatively in a team environment;
• Demonstrated ability to practice initiative, good interpersonal, crisis intervention, leadership and teaching skills, and effective communication and counseling with individuals, families and groups; and demonstrated critical thinking and problem solving skills;
• Ability to manage aggressive behaviour and to use non-violent crisis intervention and behavioural management techniques where appropriate;
• Ability to adapt and accept change as the program evolves;
• Physical ability to perform the duties of the job;
• Ability to operate related equipment.
• Ability to operate applicable computer systems
• Valid Class 5 BC driver's license and use of a personal vehicle available to travel between work sites.
• Travel is a requirement of this position and transportation arrangements must meet the operational requirements of the Program