American Psychiatric Nurses Association Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inpatient Psychiatric Unit is a 25-bed adult acute, non-forensic, milieu-based inpatient psychiatric unit licensed by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.

The unit provides care for adults ages 18 and older experiencing acute episodes of mental illness requiring a higher level of supervision and intervention than can be provided through outpatient or crisis services. Patients admitted to the unit have a primary psychiatric diagnosis and may also receive:

• Medical Detoxification services
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
• Support for Substance Use Disorders (SUD)
• Multidisciplinary behavioral health care in a highly collaborative environment

The nursing team works closely with psychiatrists, therapists, social workers, case managers, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient-centered care focused on stabilization, safety, recovery, and discharge planning.

Role Overview & Daily Responsibilities

Position Summary

The Charge Nurse serves as a clinical leader, mentor, and operational resource for the nursing team while maintaining a strong bedside presence. This individual oversees daily unit operations, coordinates patient care activities, supports team members, and promotes a safe, therapeutic environment for patients and staff.

Leadership Focus

This role offers a unique balance of:

• Clinical Leadership
• Team Mentorship
• Operational Coordination
• Patient Advocacy
• Direct Clinical Engagement

The Charge Nurse has a significant impact on both individual patient outcomes and overall unit performance.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Lead daily shift operations on the inpatient psychiatric unit
• Coordinate patient assignments and workflow
• Support and mentor nursing staff
• Serve as a clinical resource during complex patient situations
• Ensure a safe therapeutic milieu for patients and staff
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members
• Participate in crisis intervention and de-escalation efforts
• Support admission, treatment, and discharge processes
• Monitor quality of care, patient safety, and regulatory compliance
• Promote evidence-based psychiatric nursing practices
• Advocate for patients and families

Work Environment

• Fast-paced behavioral health environment
• High-acuity psychiatric patient population
• Strong emphasis on teamwork, communication, and safety
• Opportunity to lead while maintaining direct patient care involvement

Required Skillset

• Active Registered Nurse (RN) licensure
• Strong clinical nursing foundation
• Ability to lead in a fast-paced healthcare environment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong critical thinking and clinical judgment
• Ability to work collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams
• Commitment to patient-centered care
• Ability to handle crisis situations calmly and effectively

Preferred Skillset

• Previous psychiatric/behavioral health nursing experience
• Charge nurse, team lead, preceptor, or supervisory experience
• Experience with acute inpatient psychiatric populations
• Experience with substance use disorder treatment and MAT programs
• Experience working in high-acuity healthcare environments
• Behavioral health de-escalation and crisis intervention expertise
• Previous mentoring or staff development experience

Core Characteristics

• Leadership presence
• Sound clinical decision-making
• Team-focused mindset
• Adaptability in high-acuity environments
• Strong patient advocate
• Positive, collaborative communication style
• Confidence in managing challenging situations
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development
• Passion for behavioral health and recovery-focused care

Professional Organizations

• American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA)
• Virginia Nurses Association (VNA)
• American Nurses Association (ANA)
• Behavioral health nursing networks and associations

Sign-On Bonus

• Sign-On Bonus available for qualified candidates

Relocation Assistance

• Relocation Assistance available for qualified candidates

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Bachelor's of Science in Nursing or currently enrolled in an accredited nursing BSN/MSN program that will be completed within 5 years of hire.

Experience: RN Clinician 2 or higher who has been employed on the unit for 6 months or has had previous Charge Nurse experience from another unit/organization.

Licensure: Licensed to Practice as a Registered Nurse in the Commonwealth of Virginia. American Heart Association (AHA) Health Care Provider BLS certification required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Job requires standing for prolonged periods, frequently traveling and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull 20 - 50lbs. May be exposed to chemicals, blood/body fluids and infectious disease.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Paid Time Off, Long-term and Short-term Disability, Retirement Savings

• Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts

• Certification and education support

• Generous Paid Time Off

UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report "Best Hospitals" guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as "High Performing" in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children's is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.