LVN Dispensing Nurse

Job TitleOutpatient MAT Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) LVN Dispensing NurseJob DescriptionEl Cajon Comprehensive Treatment Center (CTC), located in El Cajon, CA, is part of Acadia Healthcare's Comprehensive Treatment Centers, the leading provider of medication-assisted treatment in the nation. Our nursing team provides compassionate, high quality safe and efficient medication dispensing to patients that are seeking recovery from Opioid Use Disorder.The Dispensing Nurse (LPN/LVN) provides compassionate and professional care in an outpatient opioid treatment program (OTP) setting. This role includes assessing patients, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, educating patients and families, and collaborating with the clinical team to ensure safe and effective treatment. The nurse upholds all standards of professional nursing practice and clinic policies while ensuring accurate reporting and documentation of patient care and progress.ResponsibilitiesWork under the supervision of the Nursing Supervisor, Medical Director, and Clinic Director while maintaining professional standards of care.Prepare and administer medication as ordered by the Medical Director or Program Physician accurately and in a timely manner.Document medication administration and nursing care in patient records promptly and accurately, including notes on progress and activities.Ensure the safekeeping and accurate inventory of all medication stock and records as required by the DEA, FDA, and other regulatory agencies.Maintain precise accounting of all medication received from suppliers and dispensed to patients.Dedicate approximately 90% of work hours to medication administration activities; the remaining time may be assigned to other duties by the Medical or Clinic Director.Conduct and process urine and/or blood samples, read test results, complete intake assessments, and assist in monitoring patient outcomes.Complete all documentation associated with these procedures accurately and in compliance with clinic standards.Depending on clinic needs, may be required to transport medication to other locations or work on a CTC Mobile Unit.Perform other duties as assigned.QualificationsYour Education, Skills and Qualifications:Graduation from an accredited school of nursing (LPN/LVN)Prefer 1 year of nursing experience in behavioral health, outpatient treatment program, or addiction recovery field.Training or experience treating patients in an outpatient treatment program, preferred.Ability to operate, monitor, and maintain medical equipment safely and effectively.Skilled in drawing blood and collecting other specimens for laboratory testing.Proficient in EMR systems and related clinical software applications.Competent in patient assessment, including evaluating medical histories, symptoms, and overall condition.Ability to monitor and record vital signs such as temperature, pulse, and blood pressure accurately and consistently.Ability to administer medications and treatments as prescribed by a physician in accordance with clinic protocols.Ability to observe and document patient responses, side effects, and treatment outcomes to ensure safe and effective care.Preferred Experience:Previous nursing experience in addiction recovery or behavioral health settings, such as outpatient, residential, or correctional facilities, is highly preferred but not required.Familiarity with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), including the safe handling, administration, and documentation of methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.Experience in medication dispensing, monitoring patient dosing, and observing for adverse reactions or medication interactions.Understanding of nursing best practices related to substance use treatment, including trauma-informed care and harm reduction principles.Accurate and timely documentation of medication administration records (MARs), patient vitals, and incident reports in accordance with state and federal guidelines.Knowledge of regulatory compliance requirements (e.g., DEA, 42 CFR Part 2, HIPAA, and Joint Commission standards) related to controlled substances and patient care.Proven ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, counselors, case managers, and support staff, to ensure coordinated, patient-centered care.Licenses/Certifications:Current LPN/LVN license in the state of CaliforniaCurrent CPR certification where required by state regulation.We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment, regardless of an individual's characteristics protected by applicable state, federal, and local laws.