University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health (UM UCH) offers the residents of northeastern Maryland an unparalleled combination of clinical expertise, leading-edge technology, and an exceptional patient experience.
A community-based, integrated, non-profit health system, our vision is to become the preferred, integrated health system creating the healthiest community in Maryland. We are dedicated to maintaining and improving the health of the people in our community through an integrated health delivery system that provides high quality care to all. Our commitment to service excellence is evident through a broad range of health care services, technologies and facilities. We work collaboratively with our community and other health organizations to serve as a resource for health promotion and education.
Today, UM UCH is the leading health care system and second largest private employer in Harford County. Our 3,500 team members and over 650 medical staff physicians serve residents of Harford County, eastern Baltimore County, and western Cecil County.
University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health owns and operates:
University of Maryland Harford Memorial Hospital (UM HMH), Havre de Grace, MD
University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Medical Center (UM UCMC), Bel Air, MD
The Upper Chesapeake Health Foundation, Bel Air, MD
The Patricia D. and M. Scot Kaufman Cancer Center, Bel Air, MD
The Senator Bob Hooper House, Forest Hill, MD
Job Description
JOB SUMMARY:
This role utilizes the nursing process to triage, direct and deliver psychiatric and mental health care to the population in the Crisis Center.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Identifies and documents accurately the physical, psychosocial, educational, spiritual/cultural, and discharge planning needs and goals of the guest.
2. After initial assessment, develops and prioritizes plan of care based on assessments, treatment team collaboration, and guest/family desired outcomes.
3. Implements the plan of care by performing evidence-based interventions and treatments specific to the diagnosis or problem; sets priorities and organizes work effectively. Always assists others in implementing care.
4. Demonstrates ability to function effectively in clinical emergencies following established protocols and utilizes therapeutic communication with patients, families, and/or significant other. Identifies and reports all safety concerns.
5. Performs lab draws, urine drug collection, and filling medication as ordered. May need to obtain medication during off-business hours including nights and weekends.
6. Provides health teaching that addresses such topics as risk-reducing behaviors, activities of daily living, infection prevention behaviors, behavioral health (mental health and substance use) education, medication education, tobacco cessation, wellness and recovery, as per scope of practice.
7. Assures the Environment of Care is maintained according to regulatory guidelines and best practice standards. Assists with all guest needs and care which may include but is not limited to cleaning rooms, beds and urgent care chairs/tables, meal distribution and clean up, food storage and safe handling, as well as personal care needs including showers.
8. Responds to emergency situations as required (i.e. performs CPR; administers naloxone).
9. Evaluates and documents the effectiveness of the planned strategies in relation to patient responses and attainment of the expected outcomes.
10. Ensures compliance with all National Patient (Guest) Safety Goals.
11. Models use of therapeutic and effective communication, utilizing Motivational Interviewing and AIDET communication models.
12. Attains knowledge and maintains competency that reflects current nursing practice by demonstrating skills and competencies for adult and geriatric patients, positive and compassionate communication, and best practices for de-escalation and management of aggression.
13. Interacts with and contributes to the professional development of peers and colleagues; assists others with implementation of care.
14. Partners with others to effect change and generate positive outcomes through treatment team collaboration and utilizing communication procedures, measurement based tools.
15. Maintains a spirit of collaboration, growth, and learning.
16. Integrates ethical provisions in all areas of practice by delivering care that protects guests, promotes wellness and recovery, provides quality services and outcomes, and delivers services that uphold each guest’s self-empowerment, dignity, rights and confidentiality.
17. Integrates evidence-based findings into practice; participates in quality improvement efforts.
18. Considers factors related to safety, effectiveness, cost and impact on practice in the planning and delivery of care: uses supplies and equipment in a cost-effective manner.
19. May precept. Delegates tasks and duties in compliance with policy and scope of practice, in a manner that results in efficient and effective care of guest.
20. Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education & Training: Graduate of an accredited school of nursing is required; Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred. Currently licensed RN in the state of Maryland. BLS certification is required.
Work Orientation & Experience: Two (2) years of previous nursing experience is required. Previous psychiatric nursing/mental health experience is preferred.
Skills & Abilities: Ability to: a) convey effective verbal and written communications; b) follow directions; c) organize and manage time effectively setting appropriate priorities; d) to make independent decisions consistent with current policies, procedures and nursing standards; e) perform simple mathematical functions correctly; f) adapt hours of availability to variable and changing needs of the hospital, including all shifts; g) effectively function as a member of a collaborative team; and h) respond to emergency situations appropriately, i) perform lab draws and urine drug screens as ordered.
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Compensation:
Pay Range: 38.11
Other Compensation (if applicable):
Review the 2025-2026 UMMS Benefits Guide