Residential Mental Health Units... need advice

[ex1140]

Hi, currently I am working on a residential floor at the VA. It is comprised of a substance abuse unit, post traumatic stress disorder unit, and psyhcosocial unit. I float between the units, and they are all on the same floor. I don't pass medications, I only chart if an incident occurs, and I don't have a supervisor on the floor. I am somewhat like a baby sitter... for adults. The patients or residents if you will are free to leave the floor as they wish, but they can only leave the facility if they have a pass. I have seen two people overdose, and one person bring alcohol on the unit, substance abuse unit. And last week I encountered what appeared to be the worst panic attack I have ever seen.

Can anyone relate to this type of position. I would love to work for this VA on a permenant basis, BUT...not on this floor. I don't like not having a supervisor on the floor...and I don't like all the freedom. And I don't like the fact that I don't give meds. I am under contract and I really don't want to return to this floor. Please tell me if you can relate or if you have any advice. Thanks...

[Thunderwolf, MSN, RN]

The patients or residents if you will are free to leave the floor as they wish, but they can only leave the facility if they have a pass. I have seen two people overdose, and one person bring alcohol on the unit, substance abuse unit.

In my opinion, a substance abuse unit which permits this coming and going (with evidence of intoxication and overdose by its patients/residents) is but a substance abuse unit in name only. So, the question begs, what are they treating? Not much.

And no supervision...not good.

My friend, despite what the VA may offer you there....you can do better than this.

Peace

[Mr Ian]

Please explain a "VA" ?

Sounds weird set up - if you're there just to chart clinical incidents - what happens to them when you chart them? What other purpose do you serve? Is there any therapeutic intervention?

[Thunderwolf, MSN, RN]

VA=Veterans Administration, Gov treatment center/hospital facility for prior military service members

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

ex1140, you're in a dangerous situation, both for your safety (and the clients') and for your license. I suspect this place is as it's been for a long time and the powers-that-be have lost energy and/or don't know what to do to make appropriate changes. I hope there are other staff members there. If you're the only staff person, please reconsider working there. Actually please reconsider it anyway. What you described is a setup for disaster.