LPN Dispensing Nurse

Acadia•Chattanooga, TN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Volunteer Comprehensive Treatment Center (CTC) in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is part of Acadia Healthcare’s Comprehensive Treatment Centers, a provider of medication-assisted treatment. The nursing team provides safe, efficient, and compassionate medication dispensing to patients seeking recovery from Opioid Use Disorder. The Dispensing Nurse (LPN/LVN) provides professional nursing care in an outpatient opioid treatment program. The role involves assessing patients, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, educating patients and families, and collaborating with the clinical team to support safe, effective treatment. The nurse follows professional nursing standards and clinic policies and ensures accurate documentation and reporting of patient care and progress. This is a full-time position with scheduled hours Monday through Friday, 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM, and rotating Saturdays, 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The role is primarily medication administration in a medication dispensary. Depending on clinic needs, the nurse may transport medication to other locations or work on a CTC Mobile Unit.

Requirements

Graduate from an accredited school of nursing as an LPN/LVN.
Current LPN license in the state of Tennessee.
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 monitor and accurately 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.
Ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary clinical team.

Nice To Haves

One year of nursing experience in behavioral health, an outpatient treatment program, or addiction recovery is preferred.
Training or experience treating patients in an outpatient treatment program is preferred.
Previous nursing experience in addiction recovery or behavioral health settings, such as 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 in 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.
Experience with accurate and timely documentation of medication administration records, patient vital signs, and incident reports in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
Knowledge of regulatory requirements such as DEA, 42 CFR Part 2, HIPAA, and Joint Commission standards related to controlled substances and patient care.
Proven ability to collaborate with physicians, counselors, case managers, and support staff to provide 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 medications as ordered by the Medical Director or Program Physician.
Document medication administration and nursing care promptly and accurately in patient records, including progress and activities.
Safeguard medication stock and maintain accurate medication inventories and records as required by the DEA, FDA, and other regulatory agencies.
Maintain precise accounting of medication received from suppliers and dispensed to patients.
Devote approximately 90% of work hours to medication administration; perform other duties as assigned by the Medical or Clinic Director during remaining time.
Conduct and process urine and/or blood samples, read test results, complete intake assessments, and assist in monitoring patient outcomes.
Complete documentation associated with procedures accurately and 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

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