Substance Use Nurse

About Us

Join Betty Jean Kerr People's Health Centers and make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families throughout the St. Louis area. As a mission-driven healthcare organization, we are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care to those who need it most. We offer rewarding healthcare careers, competitive benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive, collaborative culture. If you are seeking a career that provides purpose and opportunity, Betty Jean Kerr People's Health Centers is the place to grow, make a difference, and build a rewarding future.

Employee Perks:

• Affordable Medical & Prescription Drug Benefits
• Healthcare/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Dental & Vision
• PTO & Sick Time Accrual
• 10 Paid Holidays
• 401K Employer Match up to 4%
• Voluntary Short-Term Disability
• Employer Paid Long-Term Disability
• Legal Plan/ Plus Parent Plan
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employee Discount Programs for Travel, Entertainment, Childcare, Auto & More

About the Role:

The Substance Use Nurse plays a critical role in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals affected by substance use disorders. This position involves comprehensive assessment, monitoring, and support of patients throughout their treatment journey, ensuring safety and promoting recovery. The nurse collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized care plans that address both physical and psychological aspects of substance use. By educating patients and their families, the nurse empowers them with knowledge and resources to sustain long-term wellness. Ultimately, this role aims to improve patient outcomes by delivering holistic nursing care within a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in the practicing state or region.
• Completion of an accredited nursing program (Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Nursing).
• Experience or clinical exposure in addiction medicine, mental health, or related healthcare settings.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of substance use disorders and related health complications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in Addiction Nursing (e.g., Certified Addictions Registered Nurse - CARN).
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree or higher.
• Experience working within multidisciplinary teams in behavioral health or substance use treatment programs.
• Training in motivational interviewing and trauma-informed care.
• Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems and data documentation standards.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough patient assessments including medical history, substance use patterns, and current health status.
• Administer medications and monitor for side effects or withdrawal symptoms in accordance with treatment protocols.
• Develop and implement individualized nursing care plans in collaboration with healthcare providers and counselors.
• Provide education and counseling to patients and families about substance use disorders, treatment options, and relapse prevention strategies.
• Document patient progress accurately and maintain compliance with legal and ethical standards.
• Coordinate referrals to community resources and support services to facilitate comprehensive care.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient care and contribute nursing perspectives.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of best practices and emerging trends in substance use treatment.

Skills:

The Substance Use Nurse utilizes clinical assessment skills daily to evaluate patient conditions and identify needs accurately. Effective communication and counseling skills are essential for educating patients and building therapeutic relationships that encourage engagement in treatment. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities enable the nurse to respond promptly to changes in patient status and adjust care plans accordingly. Collaboration skills facilitate seamless coordination with healthcare teams, ensuring comprehensive and integrated care delivery. Additionally, proficiency with documentation and healthcare technology supports accurate record-keeping and compliance with regulatory requirements.