RN/RPN, Substance Use Services - Rapid ACC Addictions Clinic FN

Fraser Health Authority; New Westminster; On-site; CAD 57,060 - 81,994; Full time

Job summary

Fraser Health Authority in New Westminster seeks a dedicated Registered Nurse/Registered Psychiatric Nurse to provide and coordinate care for clients with problematic substance use. You will work as part of a collaborative team, delivering crisis counseling and essential nursing interventions while ensuring compliance with health standards.

The ideal candidate will have a solid nursing background, experience in addictions, and a commitment to community health. Join us to empower individuals and families on their journey to recovery.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an approved Nursing Program with current practicing registration.
• Completion of approved addictions or substance use training.
• One year's recent related experience in an addictions environment.

Responsibilities

• Plan and provide direct nursing care to clients in compliance with standards of practice.
• Process physician orders, administer medications, and monitor effects.
• Manage emergencies including drug overdose and assaults.

Skills

Mental health and substance use client assessment

Crisis intervention

Knowledge of psychopharmacology

Effective communication skills

Person-centered care

Organizational skills

Education

Graduation from an approved Nursing Program

BCCNM registered

Completion of approved addictions training

Job description

Salary

The salary range for this position is CAD $41.42 - $59.52 / hour.

Job Summary

We invite you to apply today and find out why employees recommend Fraser Health to their friends as an exceptional place to work. We are committed to planetary health, we value diversity, and seek to maintain an environment of respect, caring, and trust. If you're ready to join a team dedicated to providing care and support, apply now. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families, empowering them on their journey to recovery.

Detailed Overview

In accordance with British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives standards and Fraser Health mission, the Registered Nurse/Registered Psychiatric Nurse provides and coordinates nursing care to clients experiencing problematic substance use, including assessment, referrals, counselling, client and family teaching and follow‑up, and health promotion activities. Demonstrates nursing expertise and provides clinical leadership through direct care activities such as nursing assessments, crisis intervention, treatment and group facilitation.

Responsibilities

• Plan and provide direct nursing care to clients in compliance with standards of practice by reviewing client/family history, conducting physical and psychosocial assessments, developing a client‑specific care plan, and collaborating with other health care team members.
• Process physician or nurse practitioner orders, administer medications, carry out treatments, and monitor and document the effects.
• Manage emergencies including drug overdose, heart attack, assaultive behaviour and seizures, responding appropriately and following established policies such as initiating CPR, alerting ambulance and/or police.
• Consult and collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to identify and resolve client/family issues in care conferences, rounds and staff meetings.
• Provide crisis counselling to clients who present to the Emergency Department, IPU and medical wards, including short‑term follow‑up per approved treatment plans. Teach clients and family members about illness prevention, health maintenance and health promotion strategies.
• Demonstrate responsibility of the authorized RN/RPN prescriber per BCCNM standards, identifying when client needs exceed scope of practice.
• Participate in quality improvement and risk management activities, including identifying high‑risk situations, evaluating changes in practice, and conducting safety audits.
• Act as a clinical resource to clients, families and health care professionals, explaining nursing decisions and providing consultation.
• Maintain clinical records, including electronic health records, progress notes, interventions, teaching and discharge summaries.
• Perform intake functions, conduct mental health assessments, develop comprehensive treatment plans, administer prescribed medications, and monitor client response.
• Maintain a safe environment for clients, visitors and employees by following safety and emergency procedures.
• Participate in program development and delivery of clinical services, including development and evaluation of client program activities.
• Identify learning needs, review with the Client Care Coordinator and engage in activities to meet those needs.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures, interpreting them for clients, agencies and the public.
• (If applicable) Plan, coordinate and deliver educational sessions to clients, families and community agencies on topics such as detoxification, relapse prevention and coping skills.
• (If applicable) Provide outreach nursing care to clients in home or suitable settings, assessing substance use, monitoring withdrawal, and arranging physician appointments.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications

Education, Training & Experience

Graduation from an approved Nursing Program with current practicing registration as a Registered Nurse and/or Registered Psychiatric Nurse with the BCCNM. Completion of approved addictions or substance use training, or a substance use certificate program, and one year's recent related experience in an addictions environment, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. May require current approved Standard First Aid Certificate and current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate (CPR) level C. May require skills and experience in facilitating psycho‑educational groups. May require valid Class 5 Driver's License and access to a personal vehicle with appropriate insurance coverage. May require eligibility for completion of BC Provincial Opiate Addiction Treatment Support Program course and approved related preceptorship.

Skills and Abilities

• Complete initial and ongoing mental health and substance use client assessment and provide nursing care through appropriate interventions, including crisis intervention.
• Knowledge of mental illness and substance use treatment.
• Knowledge of psychopharmacology (indications and side‑effects).
• Knowledge of counselling and group facilitation skills.
• Knowledge of legislation and government policies related to mental health and substance use practices.
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with clients, families, the public, medical staff and interprofessional team members.
• Promote person‑centered care and demonstrate empathy for clients, families and caregivers, with sensitivity to diverse cultures and advocacy for special populations.
• Educate clients and families about essential health topics.
• Organize and prioritize work.
• Collaborate with and promote cooperation among interprofessional care team members.
• Use factual information and evidence‑based practice to support nursing decisions and actions.
• Operate related equipment, including computer applications.
• Possess physical ability to perform job duties.

About Fraser Health

Fraser Health is the heart of health care for over two million people in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley in British Columbia. We are committed to planetary health, value diversity, and maintain an environment of respect, caring, and trust.

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