LPN

Acacia Network•New York, NY

9d•$37 - $39

About The Position

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) works under the supervision of the Nurse Supervisor/Manager (RN) and in collaboration with the Program Director. The LPN is responsible for safely and efficiently dispensing methadone and other medications used in the integrated outpatient program (CDOP/OTP), including buprenorphine, naltrexone, and naloxone, and for performing nursing assessments and functions within the LPN’s scope of practice. The role collaborates with behavioral health and medical team members and organizational leadership in the development, management, and operation of the OTP, following organizational standards, policies, and philosophy.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least three years of practical experience in a health care facility.
Active, unrestricted Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in New York State.
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Current New York State-approved Infection Control certification (4 hours, valid for 4 years).
Specific training in chemical use, abuse, and dependence related to the services provided.
Complete mandated reporter training (2 hours) before the hire date.
Knowledge of the substance/alcohol dependence and use population.
Excellent computer skills and familiarity with electronic OTP dispensing systems.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and make decisions using business acumen.
Ability to multitask and strong organizational skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills and verbal and written communication abilities.
Commitment to cultural diversity and sensitivity.
Ability to maintain a professional demeanor under pressure and demonstrate urgency and commitment to quality.

Responsibilities

Dispense methadone doses in accordance with clinic procedures and applicable DEA, OASAS, SAMHSA, and DOH regulations.
Maintain medication inventory and related computations, reports, dispensing logs, and daily accountability records, including calibration, spillage, compliance, and inventory swapping.
Assess each client’s alertness and orientation when dispensing medication.
Maintain security of the dispensing area and medication inventory, and report suspected diversion to the immediate nursing supervisor.
Use the computer system to dispense methadone.
Complete nursing assessments and evaluations during intake, client visits, annual evaluations, and as needed during crises.
Review clients’ medical histories and medications during initial evaluations and 90-day reassessments.
Document, date, and sign nursing assessment findings, comprehensive care plans, and nursing follow-up recommendations in client records.
Communicate newly apparent medical or nursing needs to clients’ primary counselors and the medical director.
Perform vital signs, phlebotomy, and laboratory collection procedures according to CLIA guidelines for intake, annual examinations, and other required evaluations and assessments.
Conduct and document tuberculin implantation and reading within the appropriate timeframe at admission and annual examinations.
Coordinate staff education on HIV/AIDS prevention, transmission, risk reduction, and risk elimination strategies.
Provide health education materials at admission and when requested or medically or clinically indicated.
Deliver nursing care courteously and in accordance with clinic policies, procedures, and accepted standards of practice.
Follow infection control standards and collaborate with the Medical Director on infection control.
Coordinate client services with interdisciplinary team members through comprehensive care planning.
Maintain accurate documentation of nursing activities.
Assist Acacia Network OASAS programs when nursing shortages occur.