What are the responsibilities and job description for the Health Home Nurse position at Behavioral Health Group?
Home Health Nurse (LPN) –
Locations: Pawtucket, RI & Johnston, RI
Behavioral Health Group (BHG) is the largest network of Joint Commission-accredited treatment centers and the leading provider of opioid addiction treatment services. We are dedicated to helping individuals overcome substance use disorders. With over 115 locations in 24 states, our team of more than 1,900 employees serves over 42,000 patients.
Job Summary
The Home Health Nurse is responsible for administering methadone as prescribed by the Medical Director or Clinic Physician and ensuring medication accountability. This role involves supporting the treatment and recovery process by coordinating with healthcare providers, making appropriate referrals, and performing health assessments. The nurse will play a key role in promoting wellness and recovery through community outreach and reducing illicit drug use.
Key Responsibilities:
- Healthcare Coordination:
- Collaborate with the Medical Director or Clinic Physician to administer methadone in accordance with prescribed dosages.
- Ensure medication accountability and accurate patient dosing records.
- Conduct ongoing health assessments, identifying health issues, behaviors, and barriers to care.
- Coordinate with pharmacies, labs, and community providers to integrate medical and substance use treatment.
- Assess patient appropriateness for dosing and provide necessary follow-up care.
- Patient and Community Engagement:
- Actively collaborate with counselors to monitor and support patients' progress.
- Build partnerships with community providers to enhance patient access to resources and care coordination.
- Conduct outreach to encourage engagement with healthcare providers for chronic disease management and addiction recovery.
- Educate patients and their families on addiction, treatment options, and available resources.
- Professional Development and Training:
- Achieve assigned annual goals and objectives.
- Participate in all required training sessions and maintain compliance with federal, state, and accrediting agency standards.
- Obtain phlebotomy certification, as required by state regulations, and participate in training new nurses.
- Medication and Supply Management:
- Administer methadone and manage medication inventory following DEA and company guidelines.
- Prepare and coordinate medication packages for courtesy and vacation doses.
- Report any medication discrepancies or incidents to the Nursing Supervisor and Program Director.
- Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, as well as licensing and accrediting requirements.
- Support the treatment center in meeting all accreditation standards related to medical, health, and safety issues.
- Case Management and Team Collaboration:
- Provide case management services, including advocacy for patients, family education, and referrals to community resources.
- Participate in weekly treatment team meetings and maintain active communication with nursing team members.
- Assist in maintaining chart monitoring systems for physicals and lab work.
Minimum Requirements:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of employment.
- Current CPR and First Aid certification.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Experience in chemical addiction or substance abuse treatment preferred.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency in data entry and basic computer skills.
- Ability to work independently, handle multiple tasks, and manage high-pressure situations.
- Working knowledge of medical equipment such as dosing equipment, centrifuges, test strips, and breathalyzers.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand for prolonged periods, bend, stoop, and stretch.
- May require alternate sitting and walking during work duties.
- Ability to work in close proximity to team members and interact with patients, some of whom may have infectious diseases, mental health diagnoses, or criminal justice involvement.
- Exposure to bloodborne pathogens and the potential use of protective equipment.
Working Conditions:
- Medical office setting with variable workload and periodic high-stress levels.
- Exposure to patients with complex health needs related to addiction, chronic diseases, and mental health conditions.
Why Join BHG?
Work-Life Balance: Enjoy generous paid time off, holidays, and personal needs. Benefit from flexible schedules with early in/early out hours, no nights, and no Sundays. Manageable Workload.
Investment in Your Growth: Prioritize your development with role-based training and advancement opportunities.
Comprehensive Benefits: Choose from three benefits programs, including health, life, vision, and dental insurance. Enjoy tuition reimbursement and competitive 401K match.
Recognition and Rewards: Experience competitive pay, quarterly bonuses, and incentives for certifications or licenses.
Employee Perks: Access exclusive discounts on various services and entertainment options, and benefit from our Employee Assistance Program and self-care series.
At BHG, we thrive on the greatness of our people. Join us and become part of a community that values excellence, integrity, and making a real difference in the lives of others.
BHG is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer providing equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law.