Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (DNP / APRN)

Ascent Behavioral Hospital Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

At Ascent Behavioral Hospital, we provide compassionate care, helping adolescents navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation in a supportive and safe environment. We are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to adolescents who are in need of our services. We uphold the highest standards of integrity, respect, and excellence while fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and safety.

Position Summary

The Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (DNP / APRN) is a licensed advanced practice provider responsible for the psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and ongoing medical oversight of assigned patients. This is a pivotal role within our interdisciplinary treatment team of psychiatrists, therapists, nursing, and direct care staff, working collectively to ensure safe, effective, and coordinated psychiatric care. The APRN practices in full accordance with licensure and state regulations, upholding the highest standards of clinical quality, documentation, and patient engagement. This may be a full time role or also available remote admissions on-call (via phone).

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, including history, mental status exams, and risk assessments.
• Prescribe, monitor, and manage psychotropic medications in accordance with evidence-based practice and regulatory standards.
• Develop, implement, and adjust individualized medication treatment plans aligned with overall treatment goals.
• Monitor medication efficacy, side effects, contraindications, and adherence.
• Collaborate with the hospital's medical director, psychiatrists, therapists, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary team members to coordinate care.
• Participate actively in treatment team meetings, case reviews, and discharge planning processes.
• Provide patient and family education regarding diagnoses, medications, risks, benefits, and treatment expectations.
• Ensure accurate, timely, and compliant documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Respond to psychiatric emergencies and provide clinical guidance during crisis situations.
• Ensure compliance with hospital policies, Joint Commission standards, and state and federal regulations.
• Support quality improvement initiatives and evidence-based clinical practices.

Essential Functions

• Perform psychiatric assessments and medication management services for adolescent patients.
• Maintain a consistent patient caseload and ensure continuity of care throughout hospitalization.
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians regarding medication changes and treatment progress.
• Coordinate care transitions, including medication reconciliation and discharge planning.
• Collaborate with nursing staff to ensure safe medication administration and monitoring.
• Participate in on-call coverage as required by hospital operations.
• Uphold ethical standards, professional boundaries, and patient confidentiality at all times.

Competencies

• Clinical Judgment: Applies advanced assessment and diagnostic reasoning skills.
• Collaboration: Works effectively within an interdisciplinary treatment model.
• Communication: Communicates clearly with patients, families, and staff.
• Patient Focus: Demonstrates empathy, professionalism, and trauma-informed care.
• Accountability: Maintains high standards of documentation, compliance, and follow-through.
• Adaptability: Responds effectively in fast-paced, high-acuity clinical environments.
• Technical Expertise: Demonstrates strong knowledge of psychopharmacology and psychiatric best practices.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• This position does not have direct supervisory responsibility but may provide clinical guidance and consultation to nursing and clinical staff as appropriate.

Ascent Behavioral Hospital