Substance Use Nurse

The clinic nurse in a CSTAR (Comprehensive Substance Treatment and Rehabilitation) program provides direct, compassionate care to individuals with alcohol or substance use disorders, working under the supervision of a program director. The role blends general nursing duties with specialized care for recovery-focused populations.

Core Responsibilities Direct Patient Care: Monitor physical health, administer medications, and provide basic medical care in accordance with CSTAR protocols and state nursing standards. Health Monitoring: Assess and document patient wellness, track recovery progress, and report concerns to supervising nurses or treatment staff.

Medication Administration: Administer prescribed medications, including those for withdrawal management, following safe handling and documentation procedures. Patient Education: Teach patients and caregivers about disease management, recovery strategies, nutrition, and harm reduction techniques. Specimen Collection: Perform tasks such as blood draws or urine collection for lab testing as part of treatment monitoring.

Safety & Environment: Maintain a safe, clean, and therapeutic environment for patients during treatment. Record Keeping: Maintain accurate, up-to-date health records and submit progress reports as required Collaboration: Work closely with counselors, social workers, and other healthcare providers to support holistic recovery.

Qualifications

Graduate from an accredited practical nursing program and hold a current Nursing license in the state of Missouri. LPN and RN. Certifications: CPR/BLS certification. Skills: Proficiency in medical terminology, use of basic medical equipment, and strong communication skills. Experience: Prior healthcare experience, ideally in substance use disorder or psychiatric settings, is preferred.