CDOC Licensed Practical Nurse - Sterling
State of Colorado
Posted: January 23, 2026 (1 day ago)
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State of Colorado
Colorado Department of Human Services
Location
Colorado, --
Salary
From $43.80
per hour
Type
Full Time
More Healthcare & Medical jobs →Closes
Base salary range: $147,649 - $221,900
Typical requirements: Executive-level leadership experience. Senior executive qualifications required.
Note: Actual salary includes locality pay (15-40%+ depending on location).
This job involves reviewing and analyzing incident reports at a state mental health hospital to identify serious events, ensure proper reporting to authorities, and help improve safety and care for patients with mental health issues.
It focuses on fact-finding, collaboration with leaders, and contributing to quality improvement efforts to prevent future problems.
A good fit would be a registered nurse with strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and experience in healthcare compliance or patient safety in a behavioral health setting.
Assists with the implementation of the CMHHIP Critical Incident Reporting Program as outlined in CRS 25-1-124 (2).
This position reviews and analyzes incident reports, using the standards of practice set by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), and provides follow up for Colorado Mental Health Institute at Pueblo (CMHHIP), Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), and Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS).
Performs a fact finding assessment of each allegation and determines which events constitute a critical incident/occurrence and determines which of those must be reported to Law Enforcement, OCFMH/CDHS Leadership, CMHHIP leadership, the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) or referred to a specific departmental discipline.
Collaborates with Unit Leadership, Department of Public Safety (DPS) and appropriate Department Leadership to respond to and assess serious allegations that may require immediate response of an appointing authority to determine appropriate action to keep patients safe at all times.
Participates in Root Cause Analysis (RCA), and Apparent Cause Analysis (ACA) reviews to direct formulation of quality improvement strategies.
Managers and peers internal, and external to CMHHIP rely on this position when making decisions regarding course of action, policy revisions or systemic hospital procedural changes that would be appropriate to maintain optimum patient safety and ongoing treatment.
Maintains updated knowledge of CMS, TJC and CDPHE standards, and related Colorado statutes: CRS 27-65, CRS 27-50-510, CRS 25-1-124 (2), CRS 25-3-109.
Assists in all onsite survey activities (accompanying surveyors throughout the hospital) and/or provides assistance to Quality Management Leadership as directed during regulatory surveys.
May perform as an adhoc Reference Committee member for the Policy and Procedure process utilizing expertise for ongoing policy and procedure updates..
This position provides clinical judgement and expertise to all aspects of the role as occurrence reporter in accordance with nursing education and licensure as a Registered Nurse.
Duties in this position include:This position is responsible for the implementation of the CMHHIP Critical Incident Reporting Program as outlined in CRS 25-1-124 (2).
Collects, analyzes and reports data related to hospital-wide incidents in order to improve patient and staff safety.
After reviewing the incident and assessing the data collected, this position, in collaboration with the other occurrence reporters, determines the severity of each event and which events constitute an occurrence that must be reported through the iNotify database to OCFMH/CDHS Leadership, CMHHIP leadership as well as those rising to the level of reporting to the CDPHE, BHA, or TJC as a reportable event.
Once assigned, this position continues the review and exploration of the event, performing a RCA/ACA.
Utilizes available investigative tools which includes, but is not limited to, visual review of video footage, performing interviews alone with staff and patients, recording interviews, listening to recordings, searching areas of the hospital, entering patient care areas and reviewing documentation, both within the patient record and outside of that record.
This position uses judgement to prioritize incidents when multiple investigations require simultaneous attention.
This position is required to complete the hospital’s designated verbal and physical deescalation training and CPR in preparation for these on-unit duties.
Collaborates with and advises Program and Unit Leadership, Department of Public Safety and Department Leadership regarding the investigation of serious allegations that may require immediate response of an appointing authority.
Formulates quality recommendations for change or improvement in operating procedures to improve patient safety and quality of care
This position is involved in the completion of Apparent Cause Analyses (ACA) and Root Cause Analyses (RCA) for critical incident investigations.
Reports must be comprehensive, factually accurate, and completed using standard formats.
The RN Critical Incident/Occurrence Reporter ensures documentation supports regulatory reporting, compliance, and continuous quality improvement efforts.
This position maintains personal competency in wellness checks, as affirmed by the Nurse Educator. Performs audits by video review and other means to ascertain appropriateness of practice or procedure.
As a direct large aspect to the implementation and analysis functions of the Critical Incident Reporting Program, the RN Critical Incident/Occurrence Reporter applies advanced nursing clinical judgment and professional expertise to evaluate incidents within a clinical context both for this position’s assigned workload, and as consultant to the Occurrence Team overall.
Using the patient record and other informational sources, this position assesses the medical, and behavioral factors surrounding each occurrence, using their professional training and experience to identify potential risks to patient safety, staff well-being, and quality of care.
Based on this clinical insight, this position provides evidence-based recommendations for corrective actions, system improvements, and patient care strategies to the occurrence team as needed.
Acute Care or Specialty Experience: General clinical experience in an acute care setting is highly valued; provides a strong foundation in patient care processes and potential risks.
Experience in behavioral health is ideal.
Clinical Assessment Skills:
The ability to quickly and accurately assess a situation and patient condition is crucial for determining the severity and type of event that needs reporting.
Incident Reporting Systems:
Direct experience using electronic incident reporting systems is ideal.
Investigating Occurrences: Experience in investigating incidents, conducting mini root cause analyses, and determining if an event meets reporting criteria is essential.
Data Collection and Analysis:
The role involves participation in collecting, analyzing, and reporting data related to incidents to identify trends and potential issues for patient and staff safety improvements.
Prior experience with quality improvement initiatives and data is important, as the role is often integrated with a hospital's Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) team.
Familiarity with the rules, regulations, and reporting requirements of regulatory entities like the Joint Commission and the state's Department of Public Health is ideal.
FULL BACKGROUND CHECK: This position will have direct contact with vulnerable persons (as defined by C.R.S.27-90-111: "Direct contact" means providing face-to-face care, training, supervision, counseling, consultation, or medication assistance to vulnerable persons, regardless of the level of supervision of the department employee.
"Direct contact" may include positions in which persons have access to or unsupervised time with clients or patients, including but not limited to maintenance personnel, housekeeping staff, kitchen staff, and security personnel.)
A pre-employment criminal background check will be conducted as part of the selection process as this position is deemed to have direct contact with vulnerable persons.
Felony convictions, conviction of crimes of moral turpitude, or convictions of misdemeanors related to job duties may disqualify you from being considered for this position.
Should your background check reveal any charges or convictions, it is your responsibility to provide the CDHS Background Unit with an official disposition of any charges
CDHS Selection Process ExplanationEmployment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40/hrs per week). Part-time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications.
Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements.
Preferred Qualifications & Competencies:
Relevant years of state service experience.
Minimum Qualification Screening Process A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position.
You must complete the official State of Colorado online application. Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process.
You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached."You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process.
Part-time work experience will be prorated.Comparative Analysis Process – Structured Application Review After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve a review and rating of all the information you submit.
Your Work Experience/Job DutiesDocument your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications.
Supplemental Questions Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully.
We will rate your answers based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing).Appeal RightsYou may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated.
You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on the State Personnel Board website.You or your representative must sign and submit the official appeal form for review.
You can find the official appeal form here.
You must be deliver the official appeal form to the State Personnel Board:By email (dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us), orPostmarked in US Mail to(1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203, or Hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), orFaxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department’s action.Contact the State Personnel Board for assistance:At (303) 866-3300, or Refer to the Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, within the Rules webpage.
How to apply to the State of Colorado
For additional recruiting questions, please contact: tricia.jepsen@state.co.us
About Us & Benefits:
If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS).
Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado.
Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS. In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:
Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans
Employer supplemented Health Savings Account
11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave
State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center
Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more
Remote work arrangements for eligible positions
Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Our Values:
We believe in a people-first approach: We prioritize the needs, well-being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve.
We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide.
Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement.
We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado.
Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public.
We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy.
Collaboration helps us rise together: We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans.
ADAA Accommodations:
CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment.
This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship.
If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to cdhs_ada@state.co.us.
~THE STATE OF COLORADO IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER~
We are committed to increasing a “Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a “Colorado for ALL” drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.~THE STATE OF COLORADO IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER~
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