The Physician Assistant (PA) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) will provide direct medical care in RNP’s First Step program. The provider will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to assess, diagnose, and manage clients undergoing mental health and substance use treatment including withdrawal from alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines. This role ensures safe, evidence-based, and compassionate care while maintaining compliance with state, federal, and agency standards.
First Step (Residential Detoxification Program) This is a highly structured inpatient medically monitored detoxification program, located in Bridgeport, Connecticut. This program offers individual counseling, group therapy, case management, referral services for continuing care, and medical management. First Step is a CARF accredited, DPH licensed 27 bed residential detox unit for individuals aged 18 and over struggling with addiction to alcohol, opiates and/or benzodiazepines.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Clinical Care
- Conduct comprehensive medical and psychiatric assessments on admission, including history, physical exam, and withdrawal risk evaluation.
- Initiate, adjust, and monitor medication-assisted withdrawal protocols
- If needed, order and interpret laboratory and diagnostic tests.
- Manage acute withdrawal symptoms, complications, and co-occurring conditions within scope of practice.
- Provide ongoing evaluation of client stability, response to treatment, and appropriateness for continued care.
- Collaborate with staff including nurses, counselors, and case managers to develop individualized treatment plans.
Regulatory & Documentation
- Ensure documentation meets standards under ASAM criteria, 42 CFR Part 8, SAMHSA OTP Guidelines, and applicable state regulations.
- Complete timely and accurate progress notes, orders, and discharge summaries in the client’s chart.
- Adherence to medication safety protocols.
Collaboration & Communication
- Participate in team rounds and interdisciplinary case conference discussions.
- Provide consultation and guidance to nursing staff regarding medication protocols and clinical decision-making.
- Communicate with external providers, hospitals, and community partners as needed for continuity of care.
Education & Support
- Educate clients on withdrawal symptoms, treatment options, relapse prevention, and harm reduction.
- Support nursing and counseling staff with training on SUD, mental health and withdrawal management best practices.
Qualifications
- Current licensure as a Physician Assistant (PA-C) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in the State of Connecticut psych certified is preferred.
- DEA and CT Controlled Substance Registration required (or ability to obtain prior to start).
- Experience in addiction medicine, psychiatry, emergency medicine, or internal medicine is strongly preferred.
- Strong clinical judgment, crisis management, and communication skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, 24/7 clinical environment.
