Dispensary Nurse

Since 1972, Therapeutic Health Services (THS) has provided evidence-based, culturally appropriate and compassionate behavioral health treatment, programs and services for children, youth, and families with substance use and mental health disorders. We are on the frontlines:

• Fighting the region’s opioid epidemic
• Providing behavioral health support for those experiencing homelessness
• Lowering barriers to behavioral health for youth and adults who have had challenges accessing quality care
• Specialists in serving the needs of the BIPOC and LGBTQIA communities
• A family of caring and compassionate providers dedicated to serving the most vulnerable in our community

Position Type: Full-Time

Schedule: Monday – Friday, Rotating Saturdays

Pay Range: $38.00-$45.00

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBLITIES: Responsible for the safe and efficient dispensing of methadone medication to patients in compliance with WAC, FDA, DEA, regulations, and clinic policies and procedures, within a correctional healthcare setting. Works collaboratively with internal staff and providers, correctional facility staff, and external providers to ensure safe and effective delivery of services to patients. Serves patients at the following correctional facilities: King County Jail – Downtown Seattle and Maleng Regional Justice Center (Kent). 

EXAMPLES OF WORK:

1. Prepare, dispense, and administer prescribed medications according to provider orders and policies and procedures.
2. Secure, transport, count, and reconcile controlled substances according to chain-of-custody procedures.
3. Maintain current inventory of medications that are to be transported to the correctional facility and medical supplies in secure environment.
4. Provide education to patients regarding MAT, medication adherence, and program guidelines.
5. Collaborate with medical providers, counselors, and correctional health staff to ensure continuity of care, internal and external. Frequent interaction with correctional officers, healthcare staff, and patients.
6. Document assessments and patient encounters into EMR system and reports to supervisor and correctional facility staff.
7. Submit all required paperwork as outlined by policies and procedures (internal and external paperwork)
8. Alert treatment staff of any observed changes in patient’s status.
9. Maintain accurate medication administration records and electronic health records.
10. Monitor patients for medication effectiveness, side effects, adverse reactions, and potential drug interactions.
11. Accounts for all medication used during a dispensary shift. Ensures accuracy of records to avoid medication discrepancies and take corrective action as needed.
12. Completes medical intakes for new patients and explains the proper use of dispensed medication and its effects to clients.
13. Respond to patient requests, calls, and health concerns.
14. Follows all THS policies and procedures.
15. Performs TB tests on staff and patients, as needed.
16. Inventories medical supplies, as needed.
17. Attend all scheduled trainings.
18. Other duties as assigned.

1. A current license to practice as a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse in the State of Washington, with at least 3 years experience.
2. Current CPR/BLS certification.
3. Experience working in an OTP required.
4. Must pass background screening and King County facility security clearance requirements (requires WA State Driver’s License and SSN Card).
5. Ability to work independently and exercise sound clinical judgment.
6. Must have reliable transportation and have clean driving record.
7. Requires standing, walking, and transporting medication supplies.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to use a computer, telephone, and standard office equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout program locations as needed.
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to travel between organizational sites and attend meetings as required.
• Ability to work in a behavioral health and social services environment.

Benefits:

• Are offered to all Full-Time & Part-Time staff.
• Employer paid medical/dental/vision insurance packages.
• Employer paid life insurance.
• 12 accrued vacation days per year.
• 12 days sick leave accrual per year.
• Mental Health Day.
• 1 Personal Day.
• 12 Paid Holidays.
• Flexible Spending Plan.
• 403(b) Retirement plan.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Training Allowance/License Reimbursement.
• We are also a Second Chance Employer.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Accommodations may be provided in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value diversity in our workforce.