Health - LPN (MAT Clinic)

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), under the direction of the Nurse Practitioner (NP) is responsible for providing outpatient ambulatory nursing services to eligible individuals and promoting continuity of care. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in the MAT Clinic is a vital member of the healthcare team responsible for providing direct patient care, medication administration, and support to individuals undergoing medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders. The position is responsible for the coordination of services, patient education, and preventive health maintenance services to clinic patients with a specific focus on patients with substance abuse disorders and their recovery. The position is responsible for providing patient care within the scope of practice.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (includes, but is not limited to, the following)

• Provides and documents direct patient care by the institutional and health center guidelines for adult and pediatric patients.
• Ensures the safety and well-being of clients.
• Prepares patient and equipment required for appointment and assists provider as needed.
• Identifies patients who require attention and collaborates with the medical team in arranging for appropriate care.
• Operates, monitors, and maintains specialized equipment i.e., autoclave, surgical instruments, sterilization/packaging, and medical equipment.
• Administer PO, IM, SQ, ID, IV medications and immunizations as ordered.
• Monitors and orders medical supplies and equipment.
• Plans and initiates nursing action based on nursing assessment and best practices.
• Assist in day-to-day clinic operations in collaboration with RN and NP, including patient phone calls, patient education, pharmacy requests, test results, etc.
• Conduct initial assessments of patients to gather information on medical history, substance use, and overall health.
• Evaluate patients for opioid use disorder and assist in determining eligibility for MAT.
• Provide education to patients about their medications, including benefits, potential side effects, and adherence to treatment plans.
• Educate patients on harm reduction strategies and support a healthy lifestyle.
• Offer basic counseling and emotional support to patients as they progress through the MAT program.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.
• Work collaboratively with registered nurses, physicians, counselors, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care.
• Participate in team meetings to discuss patient progress and adjust treatment plans.
• Regularly monitor patients' progress and document observations.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records, including medication administration records.
• Respond to and manage emergencies or crises within the clinic.
• Collaborate with emergency services when necessary.
• Advocate for patients' rights and ensure they receive compassionate and respectful care.
• Assist patients in navigating the healthcare system and accessing additional support services.
• Monitor and promote medication compliance among patients.
• Conduct regular drug testing to ensure patients are following treatment protocols.
• Engage in health promotion activities to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, especially among individuals with a history of substance use.
• Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity in providing care to a diverse patient population.
• Stay updated on the latest developments in MAT, addiction medicine, and related healthcare fields through ongoing education and training.
• Acquire proficiency in tasks and procedures related to walk-in clinic operations.
• Demonstrate the ability to respond promptly and efficiently to walk-in clinic demands.
• Engage in cross-training modules focused on medical and nursing responsibilities.
• Exhibit competence in offering support in medical/nursing scenarios when required.
• ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES: (includes, but is not limited to, the following)

• Promotes continuity of care, standardized patient education, and prevention services.
• Collaborates with health care providers within and outside the Health Division.
• Participates in process improvement activities including quality improvement.
• All other job-related duties as assigned under the scope of practice.

CONTACTS:           

Immediate peers, peers in other departments, immediate supervisor/manager, managers in other departments, customers, and outside vendor/service providers.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Position medium with the lifting of 20 pounds maximum and frequent lifting/carrying up to 10 pounds. Physical factors include constant use of hearing, smell, near/midrange/far vision, depth perception, color/field of vision, typing; frequent standing, walking, sitting, carrying/lifting, pushing/pulling, stooping, kneeling, bending; occasional reaching, manual handling, and patient transfers. Working conditions include exposure to weather, extreme heat/cold, wet/humidity, noise, and air quality Potential hazards include constant patient contact, computer, and medical equipment use; infectious exposure and exposure to needles/syringes; and exposure to electric shock and chemicals. The position must follow Universal Precautions and wear personal protective equipment as required when performing or assisting others in the performance of duties.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education:     Must have graduated from a Practical Nursing program.

Experience:    Minimum one-year experience with direct patient care required.  Experience in addiction medicine or a related field is preferred.

Certification/License: LPN Licensure in the State of Michigan is required. Must have a valid driver’s license and be insurable by the Sault Tribe Insurance Department. Must comply with annual driver’s license review and insurability standards with the Sault Tribe Insurance Department. Will be required to undergo and successfully pass a background check. Must maintain a good moral character standing. Will be required to complete and pass pre-employment drug testing. 

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:   Knowledge of Nursing Theory, Skills, and Best Practice Standards is required. Knowledge of Tribal organizational policies, tribal services, and tribal service areas is preferred. Knowledge of HIPPA regulations and Health Care Laws is required. Knowledge of Infection Control, Safety Regulations, and Health Care Accreditation is required. Knowledge of boundaries, ethics, delegation, and Scope of Practice is required. Knowledge of clinical documentation and electronic health record systems is required. Knowledge and ability to use word processing, spreadsheet, and data base software required including electronic health record charting. Must have problem-solving skills. Must be able to work under pressure and handle difficult situations. Must be able to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Must be able to advocate for patients. Must be able to plan, manage and evaluate patient care (ambulatory) and handle multiple projects. Must maintain confidentiality. Native American preferred.

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