To: Board of Supervisors
From: Anna Roth, Health Services Director
Report Title: Add Two (2) Charge Nurses to Youth Stabilization Crisis Unit in Health Services Department
☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee
RECOMMENDATIONS:
ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26344 to add two (2) Charge Nurse (VWTF) positions at salary plan and grade L35-1883 ($14,486.39-$18,091.51) in the Behavioral Health Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit in the Health Services Department.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Upon approval, adding these 2 positions will have an annual cost of $697,319.16 funded by Mental Health Realignment with pension costs of $101,871.12. This cost will be offset by the termination of contract #74-671 which had an annual cost of $6,582,084.
BACKGROUND:
Behavioral Health is looking to permanently fill critical positions at the new Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit located in Martinez. Services were originally provided through contract #74-671 which has since been terminated.
The Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit is dedicated treatment space for children and youth ages 6-17 who are suffering a psychiatric emergency. A multi-disciplinary team is needed to provide full coverage to staff a 24/7 facility as required by State Department of Health Care regulations. The two Charge Nurses are required to oversee the flow of the unit, coordinate client care and ensure that staff resources are allocated effectively. They manage shift assignments, prioritize client needs, serve as a resource person for nursing staff on clinical issues and provide direction to nursing staff.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
Contra Costa Health would not be able to provide critical services to youth suffering psychiatric emergencies and would not be in compliance with State Department of Health Care regulations.