As a patient-focused organization, University of Utah Health exists to enhance the health and well-being of people through patient care, research and education. Success in this mission requires a culture of collaboration, excellence, leadership, and respect. University of Utah Health seeks staff that are committed to the values of compassion, collaboration, innovation, responsibility, integrity, quality and trust that are integral to our mission. EO/AA

Job Family

Nursing: Nursing provides patient care, promotes health, prevents illness and supports positive patient care outcomes through comprehensive care and patient advocacy.

Corporate Overview: The University of Utah is a Level 1 Trauma Center and is nationally ranked and recognized for our academic research, quality standards and overall patient experience. Our five hospitals and eleven clinics provide excellence in our comprehensive services, medical advancement, and overall patient outcomes.

Job Subfamily

Mental Health nurses provide specialized care to individuals experiencing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. They work in collaboration with psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and other healthcare professionals to assess, treat, and support patients in various settings.

Career Level

N1: Performs routine patient care assignments and may require intermediate support. Applies theoretical knowledge to clinical practice in structured, low-risk environments. Demonstrates understanding of basic nursing principles and unit protocols. Begins applying foundational knowledge in real-time care. Uses standard procedures and tools to assess and respond to patient conditions. Escalates concerns to senior staff and the medical team. Works under varied levels of supervision depending on skillset. Follows care plans and protocols with limited decision-making. Communicates respectfully with patients and team members. Seeks clarification and feedback to support learning.

Essential Functions

• Performs routine behavioral health assessments, including mental status, suicide risk, and observation level needs; documents findings and escalates concerns per protocol.
• Provides direct patient care in a structured behavioral health environment following established care plans and safety guidelines.
• Supports milieu safety by monitoring patient behavior, maintaining observation protocols, and responding to early signs of escalation.
• Implements basic de-escalation techniques using trauma-informed communication and established protocols.
• Administers medications as prescribed; monitors for expected effects and reports adverse reactions.
• Utilizes standard assessment tools (e.g., suicide screening, CIWA/COWS, Broset) to support clinical decision-making.
• Participates in behavioral emergency response processes in assigned roles with guidance.
• Provides basic patient and family education related to treatment plans, medications, and unit expectations.
• Maintains a safe therapeutic environment by following safety, infection prevention, and behavioral health protocols.
• Communicates patient status, behavioral changes, and concerns with the interdisciplinary team; seeks clarification as needed.
• Participates in handoffs, huddles, and safety checks to support care coordination.
• At the discretion of department operational and patient care needs, this position is required to work rotating schedules, which may include variable hours, weekends, nights, and holidays to meet the staffing and patient care demands of a 24/7 complex health system. Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance during assigned shifts is considered an essential function of the role. 

Licenses Required

• Current license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Utah, or obtain one within 90 days of hire under the interstate compact if switching residency to State of Utah. Must maintain current Interstate Compact (multi-state) license if residency is not being changed to Utah.

• Current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system. The eCredential is to be obtained within 30 days of hire.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

Employee must be able to meet the following requirements with or without an accommodation.

• This position involves intensive work that may exert up to 100 pounds and may consistently require lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling or otherwise moving objects, such as medical equipment, or patients while providing medical care. Workers in this position may be exposed to infectious diseases and may be required to function around prisoners and behavioral health patients.