Licensed Practical Nurse

Job Summary

Addiction Specialist LPNs provide nursing support to clients receiving treatment for substance use disorders. Under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN) or licensed provider, LPNs assist with data collection, medication administration, and client education. LPNs provide compassionate care, help maintain a therapeutic environment, and serve as an essential part of the interdisciplinary team.

Because substance use treatment requires collaboration, LPNs must work effectively with RNs, Nurse Practitioners, physicians, counselors, case managers, and support staff.

Job Duties/Responsibilities

Professional & Organizational Responsibilities

• Uphold the Mission Statement of Cairn Recovery Resources.
• Maintain professional relationships with clients and staff.
• Comply with all agency policies, including client rights, safety rules, code of ethics, and all applicable state and local regulations.

Clinical Support Duties (Within LPN Scope of Practice)

• Assist with intake procedures by collecting health data and documenting findings for review by an RN or provider. (LPNs may gather information but may not independently perform or interpret a full nursing assessment.)
• Obtain and record vital signs; recognize abnormal parameters and report immediately to RN or medical providers.
• Collect data related to withdrawal symptoms (COWS, CIWA) and document findings for RN/provider interpretation. (LPNs may not independently “evaluate” withdrawal scores but may assist in scoring under supervision.)
• Maintain general knowledge of ASAM levels of care to support communication and coordination with clinical staff.
• Coordinate with the medical providers to complete prior authorizations for client medications.
• Administer medications as ordered by a licensed prescriber, within LPN scope and organizational protocols.
• Perform medication counts with another qualified employee; identify discrepancies and report immediately.
• Assist with urine drug screens, breathalyzer procedures, and oral swab collections; report results to appropriate staff.
• Provide individual nursing support visits as delegated by an RN or provider.
• Assist case management or nursing staff in arranging higher levels of care when needed.
• Respond to medical emergencies within LPN scope; activate emergency services and notify appropriate staff and providers.

Medication-Related Duties

• Administer medications and injections as permitted by Ohio LPN scope and organizational protocols.
• Assist in calling prescriptions to the pharmacy at the direction of a prescriber.
• Coordinate obtaining medications or injections from outside pharmacies.
• Document therapeutic response or side effects and report concerns to RN or provider.

Documentation Responsibilities

• Document all patient interactions thoroughly and accurately, including:
• Health data collection during intake
• Nursing support visits
• Patient phone calls within scope
• Medication administration
• Withdrawal symptom observations and reporting
• Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA at all times.

Care Coordination & Education

• Assist in coordination of referrals to PCPs, dental providers, and specialists as directed by the provider.
• Support nursing staff in developing and delivering patient education groups on appropriate topics (nutrition, hygiene, medication adherence, etc.).
• Participate in required training, including CPI, Narcan, and any mandated internal education.
• Attend all staff meetings and contribute insights to improve safety and quality of care.
• Run OARRS reports and route to the appropriate provider.

Additional Duties

• Complete required competencies annually in Relias.
• Maintain a clean, safe clinic environment through miscellaneous office and clinical support tasks.

Qualifications:

• Experience in behavioral health, substance use treatment, or a related field preferred.
• Experience with data collection and documentation in a healthcare setting.
• Strong communication skills and ability to provide patient education.
• Administrative or coordination experience is beneficial.

Skills Required:

• Understanding of substance use disorders and basic treatment concepts.
• Familiarity with COWS and CIWA tools for observational data collection.
• Current BLS certification.

Other Job Requirements:

• Hold and maintain an unrestricted Ohio LPN license.
• Maintain a valid Ohio driver's license with a good driving record.
• Complete background check, drug screen, NPI, and Medicaid billing enrollment.
• Travel as required on company time.
• Provide reliable transportation for job responsibilities.

Pay: $28.00 - $32.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35.0 – 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person