Dispensing Nurse (208) at Kings View in Tulare, California

Job Description:

Kings View is a nonprofit leader in providing behavioral health services to the underserved community, is currently seeking a driven Dispensing Nurse to join our mission to provide compassionate services to those with limited resources. Our ideal candidate will have a passion to promote social justice and societal awareness, respect for human dignity, and lead with integrity while listening and responding to the community in need.

Dispensing Nurse (208)
Tulare, CA

Under the direct supervision of the Program Director/Manager, 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.

How will I contribute
Safely dispense appropriate daily methadone doses, in accordance with program policy and medical protocols, using automated AVATAR dispensing system, accurately record and maintain all pertinent information data in dispensing system. Process courtesy dose requests from clients home clinic. Take vitals on clients, administer TB tests, and collect blood draws and urine analysis for lab testing, read annual TB tests for clients and staff. Use independent clinical judgment to assess patient substance use/abuse/dependency, along with screening of substance withdrawal symptoms, safety, and other health-related concerns. Provide patient education on substance abuse and the medical consequences, including the interaction of clinic prescribed medications and other substances. Maintain accurate record keeping with understanding of HIPAA, Federal, State & CARF standards & regulations. Order methadone from pharmaceutical supplier, and supplies needed for methadone dispensing, as needed. Note and carry out written, verbal, and telehealth physician orders in client charts and to pharmacies. Review and assist Medical Director with client files (i.e., orders, documentation, filing, etc.); also assisting with peer review process. Record all doses dispensed and account for all methadone used during a dosing shift. Conduct daily dosing calculations on methadone, print daily dosing reports, at the end of dosing shift. Attend and participate in reviews by California DHCS, DEA, Tulare County, and CARF reviews. Schedule/Participate in Treatment Teams, Panel Review, and general weekly staff meetings. Monitor charts for dose discrepancies and take corrective action when needed. Communicate and collaborate with the Clinical Supervisor regarding potential issues/concerns. Explain program rules and regulations to patients during initial dose and as needed. Provide Program Director/Manager, Physician, NP, PA, Counselors, and other staff with pertinent information concerning patients' behavior, financial status, and attendance at the clinic. Initiate appropriate documentation as indicated. Maintain sanitary, cleanliness and organization of dosing station and automated dispensing unit. Provide nursing coverage as needed. Weekend/holiday shift differential pay Other duties as assigned.

What I bring
High School Diploma (or Equivalent) Class C Driving License Graduate of an accredited LVN/LPT/RN nursing program plus one year nursing experience. Fundamental knowledge of professional nursing principles, techniques, basic addiction medicine science, and of community health and welfare resources. Working knowledge of medications, particularly opioids and their administration in a SUD clinical setting. Knowledge of current laws regarding confidentiality in SUD programs, storage of drugs, dispensing and administration. Knowledge of opioid dependent signs/symptoms Ability to carry out written and oral instructions; to exercise judgment in the application of nursing care; to accept and use supervision; to work cooperatively with people; to maintain an objective attitude; to exercise tact and initiative; to stimulate patients and families to constructive actions; to grasp and apply the basic principles of administration and operation of a health program and to communicate effectively. Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Works cooperatively with supervisory counseling staff and demonstrates a non-judgmental and accepting attitude toward the substance use disorder. Requires sensitivity in relating to clients, families, staff, and community. Preferred: Prior experience in substance abuse, mental health treatment, or addiction medicine. Experience and knowledge of working with SUD population. Bilingual (Spanish/English). LVN with experience working in a harm reduction setting and working with Electronic Medical Records preferred. Experience working in SUD MAT program. Experience and knowledge of

Who We Are
Since 1951, Kings View leads the community in providing behavioral health services to the underserved population. We have a strong tradition of commitment, and we focus on serving rural communities where health resources are often limited. Our people treat the community with care and compassion. We stand by our cornerstone and philosophy of valuing each persons worth, dignity and wholeness in body, mind, and spirit. Our principal core values echo throughout the organization and into our patient-focused programs. At Kings View we are dedicated to continuing our demonstration in the unparalleled commitment to wellness and recovery within each community we serve. Join us and apply today.