Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (DNP / APRN)

Job Description

Job Description

About Ascent Behavioral Hospital

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.

Requirements

QualificationsRequired:

• Current, unrestricted APRN licensure in the State of Utah
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with APRN designation
• DEA registration (or eligibility to obtain)
• Prescriptive authority in accordance with Utah law
• Strong clinical, interpersonal, and documentation skills
• CPR certification
• Ability to pass required background checks

Preferred:

• Experience in adolescent psychiatry or inpatient behavioral health settings
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care models
• Experience working in multidisciplinary hospital environments
• National certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods
• Ability to work in a secure psychiatric treatment environment
• Exposure to patients experiencing emotional distress or crisis situations

Benefits

Why Join Ascent Behavioral Hospital?

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in adolescent mental health care
• Collaborative, mission-driven clinical culture
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package
• Supportive leadership and interdisciplinary teamwork
• Opportunities for professional growth and continued clinical development

EEO Statement

Ascent Behavioral Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment is based on qualifications, merit, and the needs of the hospital.

Ascent Behavioral Hospital provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Ascent Behavioral Hospital complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment where the company operates. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Ascent Behavioral Hospital expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Ascent Behavioral Hospital employees to perform their job duties may result in disciplinary action up to and including discharge.