Job Type - 1099/Independent Contractor
Job Summary - APRN - Mental health and Psychiatric Medication Management
The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) specializing in mental health and psychiatric medication management is responsible for diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions through the use of medications, in conjunction with therapeutic interventions. This role involves comprehensive psychiatric assessments, prescribing and monitoring psychiatric medications, and collaborating with mental health professionals to ensure holistic, individualized care for clients. The APRN will manage a caseload of patients with a variety of psychiatric conditions, providing ongoing care and monitoring treatment effectiveness while addressing any medication-related issues.
Key Responsibilities
1. Psychiatric Evaluation and Diagnosis
- Conduct thorough psychiatric assessments for individuals with mental health conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and other psychiatric diagnoses.
- Utilize a range of diagnostic tools, clinical interviews, and patient history to formulate accurate diagnoses.
- Develop individualized treatment plans based on psychiatric assessments, incorporating both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
- Provide psychiatric evaluations for patients to determine the appropriateness of medication therapy.
2. Medication Management
Prescribe, adjust, and manage psychiatric medications (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, etc.), ensuring the proper fit for each patient’s clinical needs.
Monitor patient progress regularly, evaluating the efficacy and side effects of prescribed medications, and making adjustments as necessary.
Educate patients and their families about psychiatric medications, side effects, and the importance of adherence to prescribed regimens.
Collaborate with primary care providers, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to monitor overall patient health and ensure coordinated care.
3. Ongoing Patient Monitoring and Support
- Monitor patients through regular follow-ups and appointments to assess the effectiveness of psychiatric medications and make any necessary adjustments.
- Provide ongoing support to patients by addressing concerns regarding treatment, side effects, and mental health progress.
- Assist patients in managing medication regimens, ensuring adherence, and addressing any barriers to effective treatment.
- Offer crisis intervention as needed, particularly when medication changes or side effects arise.
4. Collaboration and Coordination
- Work in collaboration with therapists, psychologists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
- Participate in case reviews and treatment planning meetings to ensure the best outcomes for patients.
- Provide consultation to other mental health professionals on complex cases and treatment plans.
5. Documentation and Compliance
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records for all patients, including assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, and medication management records.
- Ensure compliance with all state, federal, and organizational regulations regarding psychiatric practice, patient confidentiality (HIPAA), and documentation standards.
- Complete required insurance documentation for billing and reimbursement purposes.
6. Education and Advocacy
- Educate patients and families about mental health conditions and the role of psychiatric medications in treatment.
- Provide psychoeducation on coping strategies, wellness, and self-care techniques to support the patient’s mental health journey.
- Advocate for patients by connecting them with additional resources, community support services, and referrals to other specialists if needed.
7. Professional Development and Continuing Education
- Stay current with the latest research and best practices in psychiatric medication management, mental health conditions, and nursing practices.
- Participate in continuing education opportunities to maintain licensure and expand professional expertise.
- Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to psychiatric care and advanced nursing practice.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
- Degree : Master’s or Doctoral degree in Nursing from an accredited institution with a specialization in psychiatric-mental health.
- Licensure : Active APRN licensure in the state of Nebraska (or the relevant state).
- Certification : Board certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) through a nationally recognized certifying body (e.g., ANCC).
- Experience : Minimum of 2 years of clinical experience in psychiatric nursing or mental health medication management. Experience in a mental health outpatient setting preferred.
- Skills : Proficiency in psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning; experience with various psychiatric medications and their side effects; strong patient communication and relationship-building skills.
Key Competencies
- Psychiatric Expertise : In-depth knowledge of psychiatric disorders and treatment modalities, including psychopharmacology.
- Clinical Skills : Ability to diagnose and treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions and manage complex medication regimens.
- Collaborative : Strong teamwork skills, with an ability to collaborate with mental health professionals and other healthcare providers.
- Patient-Centered Care : Ability to provide compassionate, patient-centered care while considering the individual needs and preferences of each patient.
- Communication : Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
Working Conditions
- Schedule : Full-time or part-time position, with flexibility in scheduling. Evening and weekend hours may be required depending on patient availability.
- Work Environment : Primarily office-based, with some opportunities for telemedicine or home visits, depending on patient needs.
Compensation
- 70%/30% split per patient encounter, paid monthly