LVN Dispensing Nurse

Acadia•El Cajon, CA

18d•$35 - $38

About The Position

El Cajon Comprehensive Treatment Center (CTC) is part of Acadia Healthcare's Comprehensive Treatment Centers, a provider of medication-assisted treatment. The Dispensing Nurse (LPN/LVN) provides compassionate, professional care in an outpatient opioid treatment program (OTP), supporting patients seeking recovery from Opioid Use Disorder. The role includes assessing patients, administering medication, monitoring vital signs, educating patients and families, and collaborating with the clinical team to support safe and effective treatment. The nurse follows professional nursing standards and clinic policies and accurately documents and reports patient care and progress. The position is full time, generally 36–40 hours per week, with a Monday–Friday schedule from 5:30 AM to 2:00 PM and rotating Saturday hours from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Approximately 90% of work hours are devoted to medication administration. Depending on clinic needs, the nurse may transport medication to other locations or work on a CTC Mobile Unit. The role is based at El Cajon CTC in California. The stated hourly compensation range is $35.00–$38.00. Eligible positions may qualify for student loan forgiveness through HRSA, depending on clinic-site eligibility.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited school of nursing (LPN/LVN).
Current LVN license in the state of California.
Current CPR certification where required by state regulation.
Ability to operate, monitor, and maintain medical equipment safely and effectively.
Skill in drawing blood and collecting other specimens for laboratory testing.
Proficiency with EMR systems and related clinical software applications.
Competence in patient assessment, including evaluating medical histories, symptoms, and overall condition.
Ability to accurately and consistently monitor and record vital signs, including temperature, pulse, and blood pressure.
Ability to administer medications and treatments as prescribed by a physician and in accordance with clinic protocols.
Ability to observe and document patient responses, side effects, and treatment outcomes.

Nice To Haves

One year of nursing experience in behavioral health, an outpatient treatment program, or the addiction recovery field is preferred.
Training or experience treating patients in an outpatient treatment program is preferred.
Previous nursing experience in addiction recovery or behavioral health settings, including outpatient, residential, or correctional facilities, is highly preferred but not required.
Familiarity with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), including safe handling, administration, and documentation of methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
Experience with medication dispensing, monitoring patient dosing, and observing for adverse reactions or medication interactions.
Understanding of nursing best practices related to substance use treatment, including trauma-informed care and harm reduction principles.
Accurate and timely documentation of medication administration records (MARs), patient vital signs, and incident reports in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
Knowledge of regulatory compliance requirements, including DEA, 42 CFR Part 2, HIPAA, and Joint Commission standards, related to controlled substances and patient care.
Ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, counselors, case managers, and support staff, to ensure coordinated, patient-centered care.

Responsibilities

Work under the supervision of the Nursing Supervisor, Medical Director, and Clinic Director while maintaining professional standards of care.
Prepare and accurately administer medication as ordered by the Medical Director or Program Physician, in a timely manner.
Promptly and accurately document medication administration and nursing care in patient records, including notes on progress and activities.
Safeguard medication stock and maintain accurate medication inventory and records in accordance with DEA, FDA, and other regulatory requirements.
Maintain precise accounting of medication received from suppliers and dispensed to patients.
Conduct and process urine and/or blood samples, read test results, complete intake assessments, and assist with monitoring patient outcomes.
Accurately complete documentation associated with procedures in compliance with clinic standards.
Depending on clinic needs, transport medication to other locations or work on a CTC Mobile Unit.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Competitive 401(k) plan.
Paid vacation and sick time.
Early morning hours offering work/life balance.
Opportunity for growth.
Lower-stress work environment in the medication dispensary.
No heavy lifting of patients and no bedside care.
Stable morning/day shifts and schedule.
Paid training.
Eligible positions may qualify for student loan forgiveness through HRSA, depending on clinic-site eligibility.