DEFINITION: Under the direct supervision of the Clinic Coordinator and the Medical Director, the Dispensing Nurse measures, records and dispenses doses of methadone to patients in treatment for opiate addiction; reconciles methadone inventory; and provides other related nursing duties.
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Possession of a valid license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of California and one year of experience in an outpatient facility.
OR
Possession of a valid license to practice as a Vocational Nurse in the State of California and three (3) years' experience in an outpatient facility. One-year (1) experience working in a methadone clinic may be substituted for three years' experience in other outpatient setting.
2. Experience working in a Methadone Clinic or with clients with substance abuse problems is preferred.
3. Must possess basic computer skills including but not limited to the ability to learn the Addiction Management System (AMS).
4. Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of clients/patients suffering from opiate addiction and/or other drugs/alcohol.
5. Ability to analyze and interpret data to determine treatment recommendations and priorities.
6. Ability to screen for psychoactive substance toxicity, intoxication, and withdrawal symptoms.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES:
1. Sets up pipette for dosing and dispense methadone.
2. Records doses dispensed on individual client dosing sheets and cumulative daily dispensing records.
3. Verifies patient identification to ensure that correct dosages are administered.
4. Prepares daily tally of methadone dispensed, including measuring and reconciling of methadone inventory, and weighing empty bottles.
5. Assesses patients before dosing, and again 30 minutes after dosing for new patients.
6. Reads PPD's and records results on individual patient dosing sheet.
7. Responsible for opening and closing facility, dispensing clinic, and safe.
8. Prepares daily patient absentee report.
9. Dispenses, prepares, and issues take-home dosages of methadone.
10. Notes Physician / Physician Assistant orders.
11. May collect urine samples.
12. May oversee patient self-administration of other medications.
13. Assists in maintaining cleanliness and orderliness of dispensing apparatus and clinic area.
14. Responds to inquiries made by patients in person or by telephone and makes and/or records inquiries of patients regarding their health needs.
15. Maintains professional and ethical behavior and attitude at all times.
16. Performs other nursing duties related to the duties above which will facilitate the provision of health care services
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
1. Attends work regularly and punctually; is readily accessible during work hours to peers; limits absences from own duty stations and limits visits and activities which distract others from their performance of duties.
2. Works cooperatively with immediate supervisor, with department members, and with other Council staff persons, as required
3. Treats all patients / clients / visitors with respect and courtesy.
4. Remains competent in skills required for position.
5. During the initial thirty (30) days of employment, becomes and remains knowledgeable about and in compliance with the Council's and Department policies and procedures in the following areas:
a. Confidentiality of patient / client / fellow employee and supplier records
b. Patient's rights and responsibilities.
c. Professional and business ethics.
d. Continuous quality and improvement.
e. Safety and security of person and property.
f. Infection control.
g. Hazardous materials and waste.
h. Life safety and emergency preparedness.
6. Maintains a working knowledge about and in continued compliance with all of those areas listed under item (5) throughout your employment with the Council.
7. Provides education appropriate to the age of the patients / clients / visitors served; remains competent in skills required to educate patients and clients or varying age and with varied educational and other life experiences.
8. As a condition of employment, a physical examination and drug-free status is required.
8. Is able to work and/or interact satisfactorily with a workforce and public, which is ethnically and culturally diverse.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $29.00 - $37.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Medical specialties:
Physical setting:
Standard shift:
Weekly schedule:
License/Certification:
- LVN or RN (Required)
- BLS Certification (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Oakland, CA 94607 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Oakland, CA 94607: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person