Registered Nurse

POSITION SUMMARY

The Registered Nurse (RN) will assist medical director in providing 24-hour nursing care and supervision to patients being treated in our withdrawal managment level of care (ASAM 3.7).  This will be directed care of clients withdrawing from alcohol and/or drugs in a structured inpatient detoxification setting and indirect care for clients who have completed withdrawal and have moved to lower level of treatment. The RN is responsible for assisting with admission process, assessment, medication administration, symptom management, patient education, obtaining laboratory specimens, and coordination of multidisciplinary care to promote safe detoxification and transition to ongoing recovery services.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct comprehensive nursing assessments including substance use history, physical history and mental health history


• Monitor withdrawal symptoms and vital signs using CIWA/COWS or other appropriate tools.


• Administer medications per provider orders and monitor patient responses.


• Identify and respond promptly to medical or psychiatric emergencies (e.g., seizures, suicidal ideation).


• Provide trauma-informed care and emotional support during detoxification.


• Educate patients on detox expectations, medications, substance abuse disorders, health and wellness.


• Collaborate with providers, counselors, and case managers for individualized treatment plans.


• Assist with obtaining medical records


• Assist with scheduling of medical visit


• Participate in interdisciplinary meetings and ensure continuity of care through handoffs.


• Accurately document assessments, interventions, and responses per facility policy.


• Ensure compliance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and state nursing regulations.


• Conduct suicide risk and safety assessments; intervene using non-restrictive de-escalation techniques.


• Maintain a therapeutic environment, monitoring for elopement or behavioral risks.


• Assist with labs, EKGs, and medical consult coordination as ordered.


• Promote hydration, nutrition, hygiene, and sleep during withdrawal.


• Support ongoing recovery motivation and discharge planning.

SCOPE OF PRACTICE

The RN practices within the scope defined by the New Mexico Board of Nursing and facility policies. Duties include assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of nursing care, medication administration, withdrawal management, and crisis intervention. The RN collaborates with the multidisciplinary team to ensure

safe, effective, and compassionate care for all patients.

DOCUMENTATION & COMPLIANCE 

Nursing documentation must be accurate, timely, and complete in the electronic medical record (EMR). The RN

ensures compliance with facility policy, accreditation standards, and confidentiality requirements under HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2. Participation in quality improvement and audit processes is expected.