LPN - OBOT Nurse

Zepf Center has been serving the Lucas County community for over 50 years. We are the leading provider of behavioral health and substance use disorder services in Northwest Ohio. Services include adult and child psychiatric, substance abuse, case management, residential, Crisis Care, and therapy programs, as well as career development and wellness services. Zepf Center also offers primary care medical services to our patients to contribute to their continuum of care. Zepf Center is a trauma-informed agency and environment for both patients and staff.

The nurse will play a vital role in providing patient-centered care for individuals undergoing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorders. Responsibilities include administering medications (such as buprenorphine), monitoring patient progress, conducting assessments, and supporting care coordination under the supervision of healthcare providers. Strong communication skills, adherence to confidentiality, and a commitment to harm reduction principles are essential.

• All employees within this department will be required to learn all aspects of their position even when tasks/responsibilities are divided among staff member and/or shifts.
• 1st shift in the OBOT Clinic and/or Withdrawal Management Unit
• No Weekends

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Complete vital signs on all patients as policy and prudent judgment indicates.
• Obtain patients urine samples according to prescribed procedure.
• Be familiar with all medications utilized for medication assisted treatment related to AUD, OUD dx.
• Observe, detect, and monitor symptoms, providing patient reassurance and support, ensuring appropriate follow-up and documentation in patient files. This will include observation for physiological withdrawal symptoms.
• Provide medications as indicated and ensure appropriate documentation.
• Be familiar with SUD continuum at Zepf.
• Aid with needed insurance preauthorization for medications.
• Engage in team meetings, actively participate in workflow development.
• Document medical information appropriately in patient records according to established policies.
• Ensure appropriate referral services for patients/applicants to a hospital for necessary medical services, as prudently indicated.
• Provide education to patients regarding medical issues, providing self-care; appropriate taking of medications, disease of addiction, etc.
• Make recommendations for any needed changes in medical policy and procedure.
• Motivate patients to continue in treatment and engage in other beneficial programs Zepf offers.
• Intervene appropriately in crisis situations, using appropriate resources, including 911.
• Maintain a healthy environment, which will promote the withdrawal, intervention, and recovery process.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Specific/Individual Competencies:

• Strong computer skills and ability to operate in the EHR
• Recognize critical results obtained in the assessment and vitals and the importance of urgency in relaying the information to the appropriate provider/practitioner.
• Demonstrate knowledge and ability to implement care within the framework of standard nursing practice and agency policy and procedure.
• Knowledge and ability to administer and dispense medication in accordance with physicians’ orders.
• Knowledge of community resources, hospitals, community mental health services, and other appropriate referrals for use when indicated.

Organizational Competencies:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the agency mission, vision, goals and philosophy as well as the policies and procedures.
• Strives for high client satisfaction by providing leadership and/or assistance to coworkers and clients through the integrated care process.
• Demonstrate consistent professionalism.
• Understand the importance of teamwork and actively working together.
• Exhibits the ability to communicate effectively and approach situations with trauma informed care.
• Abide by the agencies and/or professional code of ethics.
• Successfully complete and obtain BLS and CPI certification

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Able to sit for extended periods of time.
• Able to hear ordinary conversation and phone communications.
• Air-conditioned and/or heated office setting.
• As appropriate and fiscally reasonable.
• Physical demands described are representative of those that must be routinely met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Able to climb stairs
• Ability to perform job responsibilities in a facility with multiple levels and without elevator or mechanical transportation.
• Operates a computer and keyboard

Position Qualifications:

• Active RN or LPN License
• Experience in addiction treatment, behavioral health, or medical detox preferred
• Strong communication and critical thinking skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with patient centered care
• Ability to obtain and maintain licensure and provide documentation for personnel records.