Registered Nurse/ Licensed Practical Nurse

AHG MASTER•Elgin Township, IL

10d•$32 - $41•Onsite

About The Position

The Registered Nurse (RN) / Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides essential support to individuals with mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders in an inpatient setting. The role blends clinical care, patient education, and active engagement in the milieu to support safety, stability, and recovery.

Requirements

Current, unrestricted RN or LPN license in the state of IL
Updated and Current BLS
CPI/Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (or equivalent) within required timeframe (preferred/required per site).
1+ year in behavioral health, substance use, detox, residential, or inpatient setting preferred; new grads considered with strong interest/aptitude.
Ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure or crisis situations.
Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
Proven ability to manage stress and maintain professional boundaries in challenging environments.
Proficiency in Microsoft Windows, email, Microsoft Word, timekeeping software, and general computer navigation.
Strong written communication skills with an emphasis on professional correspondence, reports, and documentation.
Ability to analyze, interpret, and act on information from emails, letters, policies, and procedures.

Responsibilities

Perform comprehensive nursing assessments (medical, behavioral, and substance use history), including withdrawal risk (e.g., CIWA, COWS) and suicide/self‑harm risk (e.g., C‑SSRS).
Initiate and monitor withdrawal and stabilization protocols; administer PRN/scheduled medications per standing orders and provider directives.
Monitor patient responses to medications and treatment interventions and promptly report significant changes or concerns to the appropriate staff.
Collaborate with the interdisciplinary treatment team, including Behavioral Health Technicians (BHTs), clinicians, medical providers, and case management staff to support coordinated patient care.
Engage with patients to support individualized treatment plans, encourage participation in recovery programming, and provide support during behavioral health or substance use–related crises.
Administer/dispense medications accurately and efficiently in accordance with provider orders, facility protocols, and applicable regulations.
Complete medication reconciliation; maintain strict chain‑of‑custody for controlled substances; conduct counts and resolve discrepancies.
Follow up with provider notes, to accurately obtain medication orders.
Lead or cofacilitate psychoeducation groups, and regularly provide education on medication management, and other related topics, including relapse prevention, health promotions, etc.
Document assessments, care plans, medication administration (MAR), withdrawal scales, progress notes, and incidents accurately and on time in the EHR.
Follow procedures for sharps, bloodborne pathogens, and post‑exposure protocols.
Follow procedures for infection control, including Administer injections when ordered (Tuberculin), Check PPD results and facilitate further action when necessary.
Obtain vitals, baseline labs, ECGs as indicated (e.g., QTc monitoring for antipsychotics/ methadone), urine toxicology, and pregnancy tests when appropriate.
Adhere to infection prevention/standard precautions; complete fall risk, elopement risk, and safety assessments; maintain a clean and safe care environment.
Ensure compliance with regulatory standards including state nursing regulations, HIPAA, and facility policies.
Maintain a safe, therapeutic, and respectful treatment environment for patients and staff.