The Licensed Vocational Nurse provides essential nursing services to adult patients in an acute inpatient psychiatric setting, including medication administration and monitoring. They also participate in treatment team meetings and maintain accurate medical documentation in accordance with clinical protocols.
Requirements summary
Candidates must hold an active and unrestricted LVN license in California and possess at least two years of experience in a behavioral health or hospital setting. Proficiency in psychiatric nursing techniques, patient safety standards, and effective communication is required.
professional certificateassociate degreePhlebotomyDe-escalationHIPAATreatment planningPatient careRegulatory complianceTeam collaborationMedication administrationCrisis interventionPatient safetyTrauma-informed careBehavioral healthClinical documentationNursing assessmentElectronic health recordsPsychiatric nursing
Job description
Licensed Vocational Nurse – Inpatient
Department
Inpatient
Schedule: 12-hour shifts
AM:7:00 AM – 7:30 PM
NOC:7:00 PM – 7:30 AM
Position Summary
Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) at Ocean View Psychiatric Health Facility play a vital role in delivering high-quality care to adult patients in an acute inpatient psychiatric setting. Under the supervision of the Director of Nursing and direct oversight of the Charge RN, LVNs provide essential nursing services in accordance with clinical protocols, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
LVNs may function as medication nurses or floor nurses, with responsibilities including medication administration, monitoring adverse reactions, assisting with admissions and discharges, and maintaining timely and accurate documentation. This role also involves active participation in treatment team meetings and the development of individualized care plans. A strong commitment to patient safety, professional communication, and collaborative teamwork is essential to success in this position.
Key Responsibilities
Administer medications accurately andmaintainmedication room/cart per clinical best practices and regulations
Monitor patients for adverse drug reactions; report observations to physicians, pharmacists, and charge nurses
Perform nursing activities as assigned within scope of practice and under RN supervision
Assistwith patient admissions and discharges
Complete andmaintainthorough documentation in the medical record within establishedtimeframes
Participate actively in treatment team meetings
Knowledge of medicationside effects, normal dosages, and contraindications for all administered medications
Perform clinical procedures as directed by physicians
Minimum Qualifications
Graduate of an accredited Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) program
Active and unrestricted LVN license issued by the State of California
Ability to pass a facility-administered medication test during orientation and prior to independently administering medications
Benefits
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Medical insurance
Shift differential
Professional growth opportunities
401(k) retirement savings plan
Demonstrated competency in behavioral health nursing and patient care techniques
Ability to provide safe, effective care to adult psychiatric patients in an inpatient setting
Understanding of psychiatric regulations, HIPAA, patient rights, and applicable accreditation standards (e.g., The Joint Commission, Title 22)
Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a behavioral health, healthcare, or hospital setting (role-specific equivalent acceptable)
Demonstrated ability to remain calm, composed, and effective in high-stress or crisis situations
Strong teamwork and collaboration skills across disciplines and departments.
Demonstrated sound professional judgment; clinical judgment where applicable to licensure/role
Proficiencyin the use of computers and standard keyboard functions for data entry and electronic documentation
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Ability to read, write, and communicate fluently in English
Current CPR, BLS, and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain within90 daysof employment
Preferred Qualifications
Associate degree in nursing, behavioral health, or a related field preferred
Current phlebotomy certification
Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a behavioral health, healthcare, or related human-services setting (role-specific equivalent acceptable)
Prior experience using Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems for documentation and coordination of care
Proficiencywith Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Teams) and/or cloud-based communication platforms (e.g., Slack, Zoom)
Bilingual in English and Spanish, or other languages commonly spoken by the patient population
Crisis prevention/intervention training (e.g., HWC, CPI, PMAB) or de-escalation certification
Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles and culturally responsive practices
Leadership experience ordemonstratedcapacityto mentor others (if applicable to the role)
Benefits
$2.00/hour shift differential for eligible NOC (overnight) shifts
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for qualifying employees
401(k) retirement savings plan
Supportive, team-oriented work environment
Opportunities for professional growth, training, and advancement within the organization
Physical & Environmental Requirements
Frequent walking, standing, sitting, twisting, and bending arerequired.
Mustpossessadequate auditory capacity to communicate clearly and follow verbal instructions.
May berequiredto lift and carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
Ability to safelyassistwith the physical management, lifting, or repositioning of adult patients, including those who may be physically resistive or assaultive, potentially weighing 100 pounds or more,in accordance withfacility safety protocols and training.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
Must be able tooperatestandard office and/or clinical equipment requiring repetitive hand movements, manual dexterity, and fine finger coordination, including the use of computers, telephones, and related devices.
Special Conditions
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of Live Scan fingerprinting, background check clearance, and verification of required licenses, certifications, and education
Satisfactory completion of professional reference checks
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States; Ocean View does not provide visa sponsorship for certain roles unless otherwise specified.
Compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), The Joint Commission, and HIPAA standards
Compliance with all required health screenings and immunizationsin accordance withregulatory guidelines and facility policy, which may include tuberculosis (TB) testing, N95 fit testing, annual trainings, and proof of vaccination for certain communicable diseases
Availability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, or variable shifts as needed, based on operational or patient care needs.
Demonstrate understandingand becompliant with Patients' Rights, LPS Statutes, and Seclusion and Restraint Protocols.
