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Shift: Nights, 3x12hrs
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Hours: 36 hrs/wk
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Start Date: Jun 8, 2026
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Length: 13 weeks
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Openings: 1
American Traveler is seeking an experienced RN for a Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) position at an acute care facility in Iowa, requiring at least 1 year of RN experience and active IA or compact licensure.
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Acute care psychiatric unit licensed for 10 inpatient beds, serving adults (18+) only
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Patient population includes those in psychiatric crisis, including suicidal ideation, psychosis, and other mental health conditions qualifying as a danger to self or others — violent patients or those with complex medical needs are not admitted
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Day shift staffing includes one RN, one LPN, and one tech; night shift includes one RN and one tech
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CNA support available 24/7; a psychiatrist or ARNP rounds daily from 8am–4pm with on-call coverage after hours
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No telemetry on this unit; IVs are used infrequently
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RN responsibilities include admissions, discharges, shift assessments, and medication administration; day shift has a heavier medication pass
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Physical restraints are used when a patient poses an imminent risk to self or others, most often via a restraint chair
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RT services are available if needed; RN administers treatments such as inhalers and nebulizers
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Charting via MEDITECH
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13-week contract with three 12-hour night shifts per week
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Cyclic 6-week schedule, subject to change based on staffing needs
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Weekend rotation is approximately every 3rd weekend, subject to change
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On-call may be required in the event of low census, with the expectation to return if admissions are anticipated
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Floating is rare on this unit and typically limited to the CNA; may be required in very rare circumstances
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Active Iowa (IA) or Compact RN license required
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Current certifications required: BLS and ACLS (AHA)
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Minimum 1 year of RN experience required
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BSN not required
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MEDITECH experience is a plus
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CPI or MOAB (Management of Aggressive Behavior) certification preferred within 6 months for longer assignments
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Candidates must reside more than 50 miles from the facility to be eligible
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Orientation consists of 1–2 shifts depending on experience level and comfort
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Staff are expected to arrive 15 minutes prior to shift for report
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Holiday coverage is required on a rotating basis, working approximately every other holiday
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Black scrubs are standard for RNs and LPNs; plain-color or mental health-themed T-shirts are acceptable; avoid hoodies or jackets with strings/hoods; sweatshirts are welcome as the unit can be cold
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Overnight support includes a house supervisor, with the director available for urgent needs
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The unit is described as a close-knit, supportive team environment with a passion for mental health care; candidates with the right personality and attitude are encouraged to apply even if psychiatric experience is limited
