Job Description

The Medication Nurse will be responsible for administering the proper dose of methadone to each patient as prescribed by the Medical Director or Clinic Physician. He or she ensures medication accountability. The Medication Nurse assists in the screening of patients and keeps in close contact with counselors regarding patients’ progress. The Medication Nurse will perform duties within the scope of their license or certification which are an addendum to this job description.

Licensure: LPN OR RN

Compensation: $27.00 - 30.00/hr

of Essential Job Functions

The key responsibilities of the Medication Nurse include but not limited to:

Duties and Responsibilities

• Mobile Unit Medication Nurses will be traveling to different locations on the Mobile Unit van, starting at a centralized location.
• Mobile Unit Medication Nurses will need to be able to lift approximately 20 pounds, weights may vary.
• Administer methadone as prescribed by the Medical Director or Program Physician
• Perform evaluation and assessment of new and current patients to determine appropriateness for treatment or need for modifications to their treatment
• Observe and assess patients after the initial dose is administered
• Follow all physician orders
• Assess patients’ appropriateness for dosing
• Collection of urine specimens, filing of contract urines (quantity specified per state/clinic regulations), record urine results in patients’ chart.
• Responsible for maintenance of all medical supply inventories as needed
• Receive medication shipments in accordance with DEA and company procedures
• Achieve certification as a phlebotomist, if specified per state regulations
• Responsible for coordinating and preparing courtesy and vacation dose medication packages
• Participate in training new nurses
• Ensure implementation of quality health standards
• Maintain accurate patient dosing records as well as daily reconciliation and accountability of medication inventory as dispensed from total stock on hand
• Report and document all medication discrepancies and incidents promptly to the Nursing Supervisor and Program Director
• Plan and implement changes necessary for improved functioning of the treatment center
• Attend and function as an active participant in weekly treatment team meetings, as well as outside seminars and training
• Maintain active communication (weekly) with other team members in the nursing department as to relevant program/patient changes
• Maintain and help with a chart monitoring system to track physicals and lab work
• Hold a basic understanding of drug/alcohol abuse and addiction and keep updated on current drug abuse and treatment information - specifically current trends in Opioid Maintenance Treatment
• Participate in and/or helps perform, schedule, or attend monthly treatment center in-service trainings
• Ensure treatment center meets all accreditation standards related to Medical, Health, and Safety issues; and other areas as assigned
• Meet BHG attendance standards and be present and ready for work at the beginning of their established work schedule
• Report any work-related injury or illness, or workplace hazards or security issues immediately to supervisor
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Regulatory

• Responsible for complying with all federal, state and local regulatory agency requirements
• Responsible for complying with all accrediting agencies

Marketing and Outreach

• Participate in community and public relations activities as assigned.

Professional Development

• Responsible for the achievement of assigned specific annual goals and objectives
• Demonstrates the belief that addiction is a brain disease, not a moral failing
• Demonstrates hope, respect, and caring in all interactions with patients and fellow Team Members
• Establishes and maintains positive relationships in the workplace
• Can work independently and under pressure while handling multiple tasks simultaneously
• Makes decisions and uses good judgment with confidential and sensitive issues
• Deals appropriately with others in stressful or other undesirable situations

Training

• Participate in and provide in-service trainings as required by federal, state, local, and accrediting agencies
• Attend conferences, meetings and training programs as directed
• Participate in and/or schedule and attend regular in-service trainings

Other

• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment

Minimum Requirements

The ideal candidate must be licensed as a LPN or RN in the state of employment and be CPR and First Aid certified. Must hold and maintain a valid driver’s license. Experience and understanding of chemical addiction is preferable. In addition to meeting the qualifications, the ideal candidate will embody the following characteristics and possess the knowledge, skills and abilities listed below:

Qualifications

The Medication Nurse must have one of the following qualifications.

• LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)
• RN (Registered Nurse)

In addition to meeting the qualifications, the ideal candidate will embody the following characteristics and possess the knowledge, skills and abilities listed below:

• High integrity
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Sound judgment
• Efficient
• Self-starter
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and under pressure while handling multiple tasks simultaneously
• Ability to make decisions and use proper judgment with confidential and sensitive issues
• Must be able to react quickly and make effective decisions
• Demonstrate basic computer/word processing skills
• Demonstrate basic knowledge and skill in the use of typical office equipment such as calculator, fax machine, copier, computer, telephone, and computer programs
• Working knowledge of dosing equipment, centrifuge, monitoring equipment for physical assessment, test strips, breathalyzers and other medical equipment as needed

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of the requirements that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions to the extent such accommodation does not create an undue hardship on the business.

• Prolonged standing, some bending, stooping and stretching
• Alternate sitting and walking and performing job duties in close proximity with team members
• Variable workload, periodic high stress and activity level
• Standard medical office conditions and environments
• Interactions with patients who may be ill, have infectious diseases, have mental health diagnoses and/or are involved in the criminal justice system
• May require use of protective equipment
• Exposure to blood borne pathogens

Why Join BHG?

• Work-Life Balance Enjoy generous paid time off, holidays, and personal needs. Benefit from flexible schedules with early in/early out hours, no nights, and no Sundays.
• Investment in Your Growth: Prioritize your development with role-based training and advancement opportunities.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Choose from three benefits programs, including health, life, vision, and dental insurance. Enjoy tuition reimbursement and 401K plan with discretionary match.
• Recognition and Rewards: Experience competitive pay, quarterly bonuses, and incentives for certifications or licenses.
• Employee Perks: Access exclusive discounts on various services and entertainment options, and benefit from our Employee Assistance Program and self-care series.

BHG is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer providing equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law.