LPN - Acacia Network

Under supervision of the Program Director, the Licensed Practical Nurse (Buffalo, NY) is responsible for dispensing of methadone. The LPN will follow the standard of the outpatient treatment program as well as all governing agencies. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities as defined by the ADA to perform the essential functions of the job.

The functions below outline the general responsibilities associated with this position. Each of these functions is considered critical to effective department operations and our Mission. It is expected that all staff in this position will have satisfactory attendance and will perform these functions as assigned in a competent, cooperative, and timely manner. The Job Description will be reviewed periodically for accuracy and/or adjusted according to business necessity.  The salary range is $27- $29.00/HR

KEY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Follow accepted standards of nursing practice in providing direct care, performing procedures, and using equipment. Ensures that the findings of the nursing assessment, the comprehensive care plan, and recommendations for nursing follow-up are documented dated, and signed in the client's record

• Carries out daily tasks, pertaining to methadone dispensing, administration of methadone, observation of methadone with documentation of observation.

• Maintains accurate documentation of daily methadone dispensing log.

• Assesses clients at the time of intake, and then on an on-going basis. If new medical or nursing needs are apparent, communicates these to the client's primacy counselor/ medical director.

• Coordinates all necessary client services with other interdisciplinary team members in the comprehensive care planning process

• Provides nursing care to clients on a routine and crisis basis

• Maintains accurate documentation of all nursing activities

• Participates in the formulation and evaluation of effectiveness of nursing standards within the department and participates in appropriate Continuous Quality Improvement activities

• As a part of the initial evaluation and the 90-day reassessment, reviews client's medical history including medication

• With the Medical Director, maintains adequate infection control standards

• Ensures the provision and coordination of staff teaching regarding prevention, transmission, risk reduction and risk elimination strategies for HIV/AIDS

• Carries out established policies and procedures for medication and treatment administration

• Assists with obtaining blood work for admissions and annual examinations; to include HIV testing.

• Upon admission and at annual examination, placing PPD, reading PPD's within the appropriate time frame and documenting in client's chart.

• Providing educational health related materials at admission, and as needed or requested by client or as medically/clinically indicated.

• Documents pertinent information regarding client conditions as per policy/procedure

REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Diploma or GED in an equivalent related field required.

• Graduate of accredited Nursing School.

• Current and unrestricted License registration in NYS as a Licensed Practical Nurse required.

• Experience working in an addiction setting required.

• NARCAN certified

• BLS/CPR certification is required.

• Infection Control Certification (approved by NYSED or NYSDOH, 3.0-4.0 Hours)

• Ability to use business acumen to exercise good judgment and decision-making. Ability to deal with sensitive issues with diplomacy and discretion.

• Must be able to multitask with strong organizational skills.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and able to communicate both verbally and in written form.

• Commitment to cultural diversity and sensitivity.

• Ability to maintain a professional demeanor under pressure and operate with a keen sense of urgency and commitment to quality.