St. John’s Recovery Place
1125 N Summit Street, Crescent City, FL 32112
Licensed Practical Nurse
LPN Job Description – Detox / Residential Inpatient Treatment Center (Substance Use & Mental Health)
Position Summary
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides direct nursing care to patients in a detoxification and residential inpatient setting, supporting individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. Working under the supervision of an RN or physician, the LPN assists with medical stabilization, psychiatric support, medication management, and ongoing monitoring to promote safe withdrawal and emotional stabilization.
Key Responsibilities
1. Patient Assessment & Monitoring
Perform initial and ongoing nursing assessments of both physical and mental health status
Monitor vital signs, withdrawal symptoms, mood, behavior, and cognition
Utilize standardized tools (e.g., CIWA, COWS, suicide risk screenings)
Identify and report changes such as anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, psychosis, or agitation
2. Medication Administration
Administer prescribed medications, including:
Detox protocols (e.g., benzodiazepines, buprenorphine)
Psychiatric medications (e.g., antidepressants, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics)
Monitor for effectiveness, side effects, and adverse reactions
Ensure accurate documentation in medication administration records (MAR)
3. Detoxification & Mental Health Support
Assist in managing acute withdrawal symptoms and emotional distress
Provide supportive care for patients experiencing panic, cravings, mood instability, or trauma responses
Monitor for medical and psychiatric emergencies (e.g., seizures, delirium tremens, suicidal behavior)
4. Therapeutic Patient Interaction
Build rapport using trauma-informed and nonjudgmental communication
Provide emotional support and de-escalation during crises
Reinforce coping skills and encourage engagement in therapy and group programming
5. Patient Care & Daily Living Support
Assist with hygiene, nutrition, hydration, and sleep routines
Observe patient behavior and participation in treatment activities
Promote a structured, supportive, and recovery-focused environment
6. Documentation
Maintain accurate, timely documentation of:
Medical and mental health assessments
Behavioral observations
Interventions and patient responses
Ensure compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards
7. Collaboration
Work closely with an interdisciplinary team, including:
RNs and physicians
Psychiatrists and mental health therapists
Case managers and behavioral health technicians
Communicate patient progress, risks, and care needs
8. Safety & Crisis Management
Minimum Requirements
Maintain a safe therapeutic environment for patients and staff
Recognize and respond to psychiatric crises, including aggression or self-harm risk
Follow facility protocols for observation levels, restraints (if applicable), and emergency response
Required Qualifications
Active LPN license for the State of Florida
CPR/BLS certification
Experience in behavioral health, mental health, or substance use treatment preferred
Preferred Skills
Knowledge of co-occurring disorders (dual diagnosis)
Strong assessment and de-escalation skills
Ability to remain calm in high-stress or emotionally intense situations
Compassionate, patient-centered, and trauma-informed approach
Work Environment
24/7 inpatient setting (including nights, weekends, holidays)
Fast-paced, high-acuity environment
Frequent interaction with patients experiencing withdrawal, cravings, anxiety, depression, or other psychiatric symptoms
Typical Patient Population
Individuals detoxing from substances (alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, etc.)
Patients with co-occurring mental health disorders such as:
Depression
Anxiety disorders
PTSD
Bipolar disorder
Hours: 12 hour shifts
Pay: $25.00 and up
Minimum Requirements:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with a strong interest in detox and residential treatment, including care for patients with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. Eager to apply foundational nursing skills while gaining specialized experience in withdrawal management, psychiatric support, and trauma-informed care. Quick learner with a commitment to patient safety, compassionate care, and professional growth.
How to apply:
Please email resume to [email protected] or call 904.990.1200 ext 121
