Licensed Practical Nurse

Position Title: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Location: Substance Abuse Facility, Florida
Reports To: Director of Nursing (DON)

Position Summary

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) (under the supervision of an RN) will provide direct nursing care to patients in a substance abuse treatment setting, including detoxification, residential, and outpatient programs. This role requires strong clinical skills, excellent communication, and the ability to work in a team-oriented environment. The LPN ensures safe and effective medical care, supports patients through withdrawal management, and works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary treatment team to promote recovery. Nursing practice must comply with Florida Board of Nursing regulations, Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF 65D-30) standards, HIPAA, OSHA, and accrediting body requirements (Joint Commission or CARF).

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Care and Patient Support

• Perform comprehensive, patient-specific nursing assessments, including medical history, vital signs, suicide risk screenings and substance use history and report findings to RN/Provider.
• Provide direct patient care during detoxification and throughout the treatment continuum.
• Administer medications safely, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT) under the direction of RN/Provider. Monitor the patient for adverse effects and report findings to RN/Provider.
• Collect patient copays to confirm that patient medications are delivered in a timely fashion.
• Adhere to HIPAA protocols by ensuring patients are discharged with proper medication and paperwork.
• Consistently demonstrate considerate and empathetic care while maintaining professionalism. 
• Maintain a hospitable and welcoming demeanor to new and current patients.
• Ensures confidentiality compliance (HIPAA & 42 CFR Part 2) when discussing patient related concerns
• Implement physician orders, monitor withdrawal symptoms, and perform routine nursing evaluations and report findings to RN/Provider.
• Provide education to patients and families on medications, diagnoses, and wellness practices as directed by RN/Provider
• Respond promptly to medical and psychiatric emergencies, including overdose and withdrawal complications and report findings to RN/Provider.

Documentation & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Florida DCF 65D-30 detoxification and residential treatment standards.
• Uphold confidentiality under HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 at all times.
• Ensure documentation accuracy and timeliness based off justification of medical necessity.
• Follow and adhere to all company policies and procedures.
• Accurately update all nursing logs as needed including infection control, hospital logs, medication logs, incident reports, and any additional logs provided by DON.
• Follow facility policies for controlled substance handling and medication administration.
• Protect patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA.

Collaboration & Communication

• Participate in treatment planning with Providers, RNs, DON, therapists, case managers, and other staff.
• Provide patient education regarding medications, withdrawal, relapse prevention, and health maintenance as directed by RN. 
• Attend and participate in monthly nurses meeting, scheduled shifts, and any additional company meetings and/or trainings
• Collaborate with medical providers, RNs, and DON regarding medication efficacy and management.
• Communicate effectively with patients and families in a compassionate, supportive manner.

Safety & Quality Care

• Monitor patient safety and participate in infection control, fall prevention, and risk management programs and report any findings to RN/Provider.
• Ensure compliance with CDC, Florida Department of Health, OSHA standards for bloodborne pathogens and workplace safety.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and accreditation preparation activities.

Qualifications

• Current Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in the State of Florida (unencumbered).
• Minimum 1–2 years of nursing experience preferred in substance abuse, behavioral health, or psychiatric care.
• Knowledge of detox protocols, MAT (e.g., buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone), and behavioral health nursing practices.
• CPR/BLS certification required; ACLS preferred.
• Strong assessment, communication, and crisis intervention skills.

Work Environment

• Substance abuse treatment facility (detox, residential).
• May involve exposure to patients in withdrawal or psychiatric crisis.
• Requires flexibility for shifts, weekends, holidays, and on-call coverage.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and provide patient care for extended periods.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.