Job Description
Job DescriptionJob Summary
The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) provides comprehensive medical care to patients at a drug and alcohol detox facility. The role includes managing acute withdrawal symptoms, addressing co-occurring physical health issues, and supporting patients through the detoxification process. The FNP works collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to ensure safe, effective, and compassionate care for individuals with substance use disorders.
Key ResponsibilitiesPatient Care
- Perform comprehensive health assessments, including physical examinations and health histories, to evaluate the medical needs of patients in detox.
- Develop and implement individualized medical care plans, including detoxification protocols tailored to patients’ needs.
- Prescribe and manage medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and address co-occurring medical conditions.
- Monitor patients for complications during detoxification and provide appropriate interventions.
- Address patients’ chronic and acute medical conditions, referring to specialists as needed.
- Educate patients about health risks associated with substance use, withdrawal, and ongoing recovery.
Collaboration and Communication
- Work closely with physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, and therapists to provide coordinated, patient-centered care.
- Participate in treatment team meetings to discuss patient progress and adjust care plans as necessary.
- Communicate effectively with patients’ families (when appropriate) to provide education and support.
Compliance and Documentation
- Maintain accurate and confidential patient records in compliance with HIPAA, state, and federal guidelines.
- Document patient care activities, including assessments, interventions, and outcomes, in the electronic medical records (EMR) system.
- Ensure adherence to facility protocols, accreditation standards (e.g., Joint Commission or CARF), and applicable laws.
Education and Advocacy
- Educate patients about medications, detoxification procedures, and healthy lifestyle choices to support long-term recovery.
- Advocate for patients’ needs within the treatment team and during transitions of care.
- Stay informed on evidence-based practices for treating substance use disorders and associated medical conditions.
QualificationsEducation and Certification
- Master’s or Doctoral degree in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization.
- Current and unencumbered Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license in the state of operation.
- Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner through ANCC or AANP.
- DEA license with the ability to prescribe controlled substances, including medications for withdrawal management (e.g., buprenorphine).
- CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; ACLS preferred.
Experience
- Minimum of 2 years of experience as an FNP, preferably in substance use treatment, behavioral health, or primary care.
- Experience managing detoxification and withdrawal symptoms is highly desirable.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong knowledge of detoxification protocols, substance use disorders, and co-occurring medical conditions.
- Excellent clinical decision-making and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish trust with patients and families.
- Proficiency with electronic medical records (EMR) systems.
Work Environment
- Work is performed in a detox and treatment facility, with direct interaction with patients in varying stages of withdrawal and recovery.
- May require on-call responsibilities and availability for emergencies.
- Occasional evening, weekend, or holiday work may be required.