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Psychiatric Nurse Rn Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Psychiatric Nurse Rn information

See Virginia salary details

$1.1K

$2K

$2.9K

How much do psychiatric nurse rn jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average weekly pay for psychiatric nurse rn in Virginia is $2,038.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,715.38 and $2,353.85 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Nurse Rn vs Mental Health Nurse?

AspectPsychiatric Nurse RnMental Health Nurse
CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN) license, psychiatric specializationRegistered Nurse (RN) license, mental health specialization
Work EnvironmentHospitals, psychiatric facilities, clinicsCommunity clinics, hospitals, outpatient settings
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities focusing on mental healthCommunity health organizations, hospitals, outpatient centers

Both Psychiatric Nurse Rns and Mental Health Nurses are registered nurses specializing in mental health care. While their credentials are similar, Psychiatric Nurse Rns often work in inpatient psychiatric settings, whereas Mental Health Nurses may work in community or outpatient environments. The roles overlap significantly, but the work setting and focus can differ based on employer needs.

What is a psychiatric nurse RN?

A Psychiatric Nurse RN (Registered Nurse) is a specialized healthcare professional who provides care to patients experiencing mental health disorders or emotional difficulties. They assess patients, administer medications, monitor treatment plans, and offer therapeutic support to individuals and their families. Psychiatric Nurse RNs work in settings such as hospitals, psychiatric facilities, and community health centers, collaborating closely with psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals. Their role is key in helping patients manage symptoms, achieve stability, and improve their overall quality of life.

What are some common challenges faced by psychiatric nurse RNs, and how can they prepare to handle them?

Psychiatric Nurse RNs often encounter emotionally intense situations, such as managing patients in crisis or exhibiting challenging behaviors. Effective communication, de-escalation techniques, and emotional resilience are crucial for success in this role. Working closely with interdisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists, social workers, and therapists, is essential for providing comprehensive care and support. Many organizations offer ongoing training and mental health resources to help nurses manage stress and maintain well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a psychiatric nurse RN?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Nurse RN, you need expertise in mental health assessment, crisis intervention, and psychopharmacology, supported by a nursing degree and RN licensure with potential additional certification in psychiatric-mental health nursing. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), behavioral health documentation systems, and de-escalation tools is often required. Exceptional communication, emotional resilience, and strong observation skills help build trust and ensure patient safety in challenging situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering effective, compassionate care and maintaining a safe therapeutic environment for patients with mental health needs.
Infographic showing various Psychiatric Nurse Rn job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,985 per year, or $51 per hour.

$33.67/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Children's Hospital Of The King's Daughters rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

344th of 1,055 rated hospitals


Job description

  • GENERAL SUMMARY
    • Plans, provides, and monitors individualized psychiatric and medical nursing care in response to specific patient needs. Provides developmentally appropriate psychosocial and clinical care respective to the assigned patient population. Reports to the Director of Patient Care Services – Critical Care.
  • ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
    • Plans, provides, and monitors individualized psychiatric and medical nursing care following established policies, procedures, and regulations.
    • Performs therapeutic nursing interventions as established by individualized plan of care for the preschool, school age or adolescent patient and his/her family.
    • Provides developmentally appropriate psychosocial and clinical care.
    • Communicates and collaborates effectively with all members of the healthcare team.
    • Performs other duties as assigned.
    • Core competencies:
      • Adept in conflict resolution
      • Skilled in intake interviewing
      • Culturally sensitive expertise in crisis intervention techniques
      • Exceptional interpersonal communication
      • Psychiatric population familiarity
      • Psychotropic medication knowledge
      • Understands and evaluates data related to psychiatric emergency: Vital signs/LOC Glasgow coma scale; Lab tests (routine bloodwork, urine toxicology screen)
      • Demonstrated understanding of the Emergency Mental Health Nurse and their role within the ED
      • Demonstrated ability to provide a safe environment and interventions to manage alterations in mental/behavioral health and ensure patient and staff safety
  • LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
    • Current Virginia state license as a Registered Nurse or Registered Nurse holding a valid Compact State license. 
    • CPR Training required and/or must be obtained within 45 days of hire.
    • PALS preferred.
    • RN certification preferred.
  • MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
    • Must have an Associates in Nursing/Diploma in Nursing with applicable experience, however a BSN is preferred.
    • Experience in both pediatric medical and psychiatric settings preferred.
    • Pediatric experience preferred. 
  • WORKING CONDITIONS
    • Expected to work in a patient care environment with minimal exposure to environmental hazards such as, but not limited to, excessive noise, dust, or extremes in temperatures. Exposure to communicable diseases and moderately adverse working conditions due to the need to perform certain patient care activities can be expected.
  • PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
    • Click here to view physical requirements. 

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