Lead Dispensing Nurse

Description

Position Overview:

This position performs the duties of the head nurse in charge of dispensing services of the Bayview Substance Use Disorder Services Programs. Requires responsibility for participating in and executing policies, methods and procedures within the field of dispensing methadone- a controlled substance. Provides direct and indirect services for the medication functions of the clinic, provides supervision of the methadone administered to registered inmates of Methadone Treatment Programs in the Bay Area local and county jails. Provides supervision to staff assigned to the methadone-dispensing unit.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Supervising and Administrative Duties

· Develop and provide onboarding, orientation, and ongoing training for nursing staff, including procedures for dispensing and administering methadone in the San Francisco County Jails and in the 21-Day Detoxification and Methadone Maintenance programs.

· Create and maintain efficient schedules and coverage for the nursing team to support dispensing operations seven days a week.

· Work with leadership team on implementing department-wide projects.

· Monitor staffs adherence to Title 9 Regulations and administrative policies through observation, daily audits, and monthly observations.

· Reconciliation of medication inventory.

· Prepare monthly statistical information for Units of Service and unduplicated clients reports.

· Administers medicine according to physician’s orders to clients in a clinical setting in addition to incarcerated clients of participating substance abuse clinics of the Bay Area in the San Francisco County Jails.

· Collaborates and works directly with physicians, counselors, jail medical staff, sheriff’s deputies and Methadone Treatment program personnel throughout the United States.

· Ensures that the dispensing unit has supplies and equipment needed to conduct services effectively.

· Responsible for interdepartmental communications in the clinical setting with medical support staff.

Direct Patient Care and Clinical Duties

· Prepare and measure methadone doses in accordance with written prescriptions and protocols established by the Medical Director.

· Dispense methadone safely and accurately to clients enrolled in the program following state, federal, and program guidelines.

· Monitor and document patient reactions to methadone, including withdrawal symptoms, overmedication, or adverse effects, and notify the provider as appropriate.

· Maintain accurate methadone dispensing logs, inventory counts, and all required records to ensure full accountability and regulatory compliance.

· Ensure secure safekeeping of all controlled medications, ensuring proper safe closure and strict chain-of-custody procedures at the end of each shift.

· Transport and deliver methadone to designated correctional facilities following secure transport protocols when assigned.

· Perform phlebotomy for routine, annual, and diagnostic laboratory testing.

· Conduct ECG/EKG testing, including correct lead placement, acquisition of tracings, and reporting abnormal findings to the healthcare provider.

· Obtain vital signs, complete health assessments, and accurately document clinical findings.

· Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant clinical environment in accordance with infection-control standards.

· Strong skills in record keeping, documentation accuracy, and maintaining confidentiality.

· Maintain strict confidentiality of clinic operations, location, patient information, and staff information in accordance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.

· Performs related or similar duties as required or assigned.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements and Experience:

· Regular and reliable job attendance.

· Valid California driver’s license, if required for assigned duties.

· Effective verbal and written communication skills.

· Able to meet federal, state and local standards following a comprehensive background screening and LiveScan Screening (if duties require).

· Demonstrate respect and understanding when maintaining professional relationships.

· Active, unencumbered Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of California.

· Minimum of two years of clinical nursing experience within a substance use rehabilitation setting.

· Comprehensive understanding of Federal, State, and County regulations governing the handling and dispensing of controlled substances.

· Minimum of three years of supervisory or leadership experience in a healthcare or community setting.

· Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office, Avatar, internet browsers, and electronic medical record systems, with the ability and willingness to learn new technologies.

· As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure environment, all candidates selected for this position will be subject to a comprehensive background check clearance. This clearance is a standard part of our employment process and is conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

· The employee must be able to meet deadlines with time constraints.

Preferred Qualifications:

· Familiarity with community-based healthcare models and delivery systems.

· Demonstrated knowledge of the San Francisco community and local health resources.

· Lived experience or professional background working collaboratively with diverse, underserved, and historically marginalized populations, including communities of color and international cultures.

· Deep cultural humility and a demonstrated commitment to addressing minority health issues and the unique needs of diverse populations with empathy and respect.

· Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment for staff, patients, and families.

· Flexibility to work occasional weekends to support operational needs and continuity of care.

Physical & Additional Requirements:

· Ability to work effectively in an open office environment surrounded by moderate noise and distractions.

· Frequently required to sit; occasionally walk and stand; travel from the building to other sites.

· Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

· Able to meet required state, federal, local and BVHP standards.

· Live Scan fingerprinting and TB clearance as well as any other medical vaccinations may be required.

· At least two COVID-19 vaccinations (preferred).