Adult Acute Psychiatric RN (Locked Unit)
Cooperstown, New York
Bassett Medical Center

Job Opportunity: Travel RN - Psychiatric Nursing

Location: Cooperstown, New York
Specialty: RN Psych
Employment Type: Travel
Contract Length: 12 weeks

Unit Overview

• Unit Type: Adult Acute Psychiatric Unit (Locked Unit)
• Patient Population: Adults 18+ with psychiatric and dual-diagnosis conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, psychosis, and substance/alcohol-related disorders
• Unit Size: 14 beds, expanding to 20 beds within 3–6 months
• Environment: Secure, locked behavioral health setting
• Patient Mix: Variable daily, with a blend of diagnoses and acuity levels

Staffing Model

• Nurse-to-Patient Ratio: 1:7 at full census (2 nurses per shift)
• Tech/NA Support: Typically 2 techs per shift; may reduce to 1 if census is low, with float support as needed
• Team Composition: 2 RNs and 1 to 2 NAs/Techs per shift

Clinical Expectations

• Primary RN Responsibilities: Medication administration, documentation, clinical oversight/support for NAs
• Direct Care: May assist with patient care including 1:1 observation
• Safety Measures:

  • Restraint/seclusion room available on unit
  • Security assists with restraints; nurses will receive de-escalation training (TRUST training planned)
  • Hourly rounding required with rotating patient checks
• Certifications: No current required de-escalation certification, but TRUST training will be implemented

Scheduling Details

• Shift: Night shift (1900–0730)
• Schedule: Variable nights including weekdays and weekends based on need
• Weekend/Holiday Work: Required
• On-Call: None
• Floating: Rare, as this is the only psych unit in the facility

Additional Notes

• Fast-paced acute behavioral health setting
• Flexibility required; nurses may occasionally perform nurse tech duties or 1:1 safety monitoring
• Unit expansion underway with supportive leadership for traveler integration

Required Credentials and Certifications

• MMR
• Fit Test
• Hepatitis B
• Influenza Vaccine
• TB Test and Annual TB Questionnaire
• Varicella
• Driver's License/State ID
• Physical/Health Statement
• BLS Certification
• License/Certificate Verification
• Nursys verification and license submission required
• Professional references, background checks, drug screen, employment verification, education verification, and other facility-specific forms and checklists

This position is ideal for RNs experienced or interested in psychiatric nursing within an adult acute locked unit, comfortable with a dynamic patient population and safety-focused environment.