The Esketamine Nurse is responsible for the safe administration, monitoring, and documentation of intranasal esketamine (Spravato) therapy for patients with treatment-resistant depression and related conditions. This role ensures compliance with FDA requirements, provides patient education and support, and collaborates closely with prescribing providers and the interdisciplinary mental health team.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Care
* Administer intranasal esketamine (Spravato) according to provider orders
* Perform pre-treatment assessments, including vital signs, mental status, and eligibility screening
* Monitor patients during and after treatment for at least two hours, assessing for adverse effects such as dissociation, sedation, blood pressure changes, nausea, or anxiety
* Respond appropriately to adverse reactions and medical or psychiatric emergencies
* Provide post-treatment discharge assessments and ensure patients meet criteria for safe discharge
Patient Education & Support
* Educate patients on the esketamine treatment process, expectations, risks, side effects, and post-treatment restrictions
* Offer therapeutic support and reassurance during treatment sessions
* Reinforce safety instructions, including transportation requirements and activity limitations
Documentation & Compliance
* Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation in the electronic health record
* Ensure compliance with Spravato program requirements, including enrollment, monitoring, and reporting
* Track treatment schedules, outcomes, and patient progress
* Maintain confidentiality and comply with organizational policies
* Keeping records and safe storage of esketamine following protocols of S8 medications.
Collaboration & Operations
* Coordinate care with psychiatrists, nurses, therapists, pharmacists, and administrative staff
* Assist with scheduling, patient flow, and clinic operations related to esketamine services
* Participate in quality improvement initiatives and ongoing training related to esketamine therapy
* Maintain a clean, safe, and therapeutic treatment environment
Required Qualifications
* Active and unrestricted RN license
* Current BLS certification
* Minimum of 1 year of nursing experience (psychiatric, behavioral health, infusion, or outpatient clinical experience preferred)
* Strong assessment, monitoring, and critical-thinking skills
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Preferred Qualifications
* Experience in psychiatric or mental health nursing
* Experience working in outpatient or ambulatory care settings
* Comfort working with patients experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mood disorders
Physical & Environmental Requirements
* Ability to monitor patients for extended periods
* Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations
* Work in a clinical setting with potential exposure to patients in acute psychological distress
Work Schedule
* Typically outpatient clinic hours; two half days or one and a half days a week (willing to add more time when service expands further)