Behavioral Health Registered Nurse

Job Description

Job Description

A hospital in Ottumwa, IA is seeking a Behavioral Health Registered Nurse to join its inpatient behavioral health team. This role focuses on providing direct nursing care to patients experiencing acute and chronic mental health conditions in a structured clinical environment.

Position Overview

The Behavioral Health RN is responsible for delivering safe, therapeutic nursing care to patients within a behavioral health setting. Care is provided in alignment with established psychiatric nursing standards and hospital protocols, with an emphasis on patient safety, stabilization, and support.

This position requires strong communication skills, sound clinical judgment, and the ability to respond effectively to behavioral health crises while maintaining a therapeutic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct nursing care to behavioral health patients in an inpatient setting
• Conduct ongoing patient assessments and monitor mental and physical status
• Support safety protocols and de-escalation techniques as needed
• Administer medications and monitor patient response
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary treatment teams including psychiatry and social work
• Document patient care accurately and in a timely manner
• Support individualized care plans and treatment goals
• Respond to behavioral health crises and emergency situations appropriately
• Maintain compliance with hospital and behavioral health standards

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Registered Nursing program required
• Active Iowa RN license or compact license permitting practice in Iowa required
• Current Basic Life Support (BCLS) certification required
• Strong communication, de-escalation, and critical thinking skills required
• Ability to work effectively in a structured behavioral health environment required

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holiday benefits
• Retirement savings program
• Continuing education and professional development support
• Structured inpatient behavioral health practice environment
• Opportunities for skill development in psychiatric nursing care