Job Description
$5000 SIGN ON BONUS AVAILABLE! ½ Paid at 90 Day of Successful Employment – ½ Paid at 180 Days of Successful Employment Bonus Can Only Be Received Once in a 12 Month Period Re-Hires Subject to Additional Review & Requirements Program: Intellectual Disability Services Position: Registered Nurse Reports to: Regional Service Director Salary: Starting at $79,000 Job Type: Full Time Function: The Registered Nurse (RN) serves as a key clinical support professional and an essential member of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT). The RN is responsible for the health oversight and clinical well-being of individuals served under the Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) Community Waiver Program. The role ensures compliance with CMS standards and the Alabama Board of Nursing’s Nurse Delegation Program (NDP). This includes routine health monitoring, medication oversight, staff training, and coordination of care. Know How: The ideal candidate holds a current Alabama RN license and has at least one year of clinical nursing experience, preferably in developmental disabilities or community-based care. They have strong knowledge of health needs common among individuals with IDD, are skilled in physical assessment, and understand pharmacology—especially psychotropic medications. Proficiency in documentation systems like Therap and experience with the Nurse Delegation Program (NDP) are required. The candidate must demonstrate effective communication, organizational, and teamwork skills, with the ability to train and support LPNs and DSPs. Basic computer literacy is also essential. Principal Activities: 1. Health Monitoring & Clinical Oversight Conduct routine health monitoring through physical assessments, including vital signs, system reviews, and behavioral observations. Respond promptly and appropriately to medical emergencies, illness, or changes in health status. Integrate health needs into person-centered support plans and contribute to the development and review of health-related goals. 2. Medication Administration & Management Ensure medications are administered per physician orders and documented accurately on the Electronic Medication Administration Records (EMAR). Conduct biweekly medication audits, including MAR reviews and medication counts, to ensure compliance with ADMH and CMS standards. Oversee proper medication storage, security, and disposal protocols. Provide training and delegated oversight of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) as MAC workers and LPNs per the Alabama NDP, including competency verification in medication administration and health-related tasks. 3. Documentation & Communication Maintain timely, accurate, and complete nursing documentation in the agency’s electronic health record (e.g., Therap). Document and review all health interventions, PRN administration, incidents, injuries, illnesses, and suspected abuse or neglect. Update individual care plans and specialized protocols (e.g., diabetes, seizure management) based on physician input and observed health needs. 4. Specialized Medical Oversight Supervise and ensure implementation of specialized medical protocols (e.g., wound care, seizure protocols, diabetic care). Conduct and document monthly DSP trainings on protocol adherence, early symptom recognition, and individualized care procedures. Participate in Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) meetings, especially when medical decisions or input are required. 5. Coordination with Medical Providers Schedule and coordinate appointments with healthcare providers, including physicians, therapists, labs, and pharmacies. Document appointment outcomes, lab results, physician recommendations, and treatment plans in the electronic health record system. Monitor follow-up compliance and communicate outcomes with the IDT to ensure continuity of care. 6. Staff Supervision & Training Supervise LPNs and ensure compliance with delegated tasks as outlined in the NDP. Provide clinical guidance and mentorship to healthcare and support staff. Deliver ongoing health-related training for residential staff, including topics such as infection control, emergency procedures, medication safety, and recognizing signs of medical distress. 7. Quality Assurance & Compliance Conduct scheduled monthly nursing audits of group homes and service settings to ensure regulatory compliance. Monitor dietary services and meal p