Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Job Summary

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) provides comprehensive medical care to patients at a drug and alcohol detox facility. The role includes managing acute withdrawal symptoms, addressing co-occurring physical health issues, and supporting patients through the detoxification process. The FNP works collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to ensure safe, effective, and compassionate care for individuals with substance use disorders.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care

• Perform comprehensive health assessments, including physical examinations and health histories, to evaluate the medical needs of patients in detox.
• Develop and implement individualized medical care plans, including detoxification protocols tailored to patients’ needs.
• Prescribe and manage medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and address co-occurring medical conditions.
• Monitor patients for complications during detoxification and provide appropriate interventions.
• Address patients’ chronic and acute medical conditions, referring to specialists as needed.
• Educate patients about health risks associated with substance use, withdrawal, and ongoing recovery.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, and therapists to provide coordinated, patient-centered care.
• Participate in treatment team meetings to discuss patient progress and adjust care plans as necessary.
• Communicate effectively with patients’ families (when appropriate) to provide education and support.

Compliance and Documentation

• Maintain accurate and confidential patient records in compliance with HIPAA, state, and federal guidelines.
• Document patient care activities, including assessments, interventions, and outcomes, in the electronic medical records (EMR) system.
• Ensure adherence to facility protocols, accreditation standards (e.g., Joint Commission or CARF), and applicable laws.

Education and Advocacy

• Educate patients about medications, detoxification procedures, and healthy lifestyle choices to support long-term recovery.
• Advocate for patients’ needs within the treatment team and during transitions of care.
• Stay informed on evidence-based practices for treating substance use disorders and associated medical conditions.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

• Master’s or Doctoral degree in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization.
• Current and unencumbered Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license in the state of operation.
• Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner through ANCC or AANP.
• DEA license with the ability to prescribe controlled substances, including medications for withdrawal management (e.g., buprenorphine).
• CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; ACLS preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as an FNP, preferably in substance use treatment, behavioral health, or primary care.
• Experience managing detoxification and withdrawal symptoms is highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong knowledge of detoxification protocols, substance use disorders, and co-occurring medical conditions.
• Excellent clinical decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish trust with patients and families.
• Proficiency with electronic medical records (EMR) systems.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a detox and treatment facility, with direct interaction with patients in varying stages of withdrawal and recovery.
• May require on-call responsibilities and availability for emergencies.
• Occasional evening, weekend, or holiday work may be required.