STATE OF CONNECTICUT EXECUTIVE BRANCH JOBS

Licensed Practical Nurse (35 Hour)

Recruitment #200831-5415HN-001

Introduction

Our mission at the State of Connecticut, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), is a health care agency whose mission is to promote the overall health and wellness of persons with behavioral health needs through an integrated network of holistic, comprehensive, effective, and efficient services and supports that foster dignity, respect, and self-sufficiency in those we serve.

Are you a self-starter?  Do you have a passion for supporting others?  Do you want to make a difference while participating in a dynamic and reciprocal health care environment in the public sector?  If so, we want you to join us! 

The DMHAS, Southeastern Mental Health Authority (SMHA) seeks qualified individuals for the position of Licensed Practical Nurse within the Behavioral Health Home Team located at 401 West Thames Street, Building 301, Norwich, CT 06360.  The work schedule is 1st shift, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, 35 hours per week.  The position number is 124057. 

In this role you will: 

  • Initiate contact with clients who are difficult to reach and engage; 
  • Provide clients with information, education, and support so they can make informed decisions about care options as well as link clients to services through referrals; 
  • Help clients set up and prepare for medical, behavioral health, social service, and/or community support appointments; 
  • Accompany clients to appointments in order to facilitate a better understanding of the appointment, instructions and results; 
  • Provide follow-up with the client after appointments by educating them on the importance of preventive medicine, screenings and medications: 
  • Educate and coach clients regarding healthy lifestyles and healthy eating habits; 
  • Assist with tracking client data points; and 
  • Establish and maintain relationships with local hospitals and local community health centers. 
We participate in a generous and competitive benefits plan that includes healthcare coverage, a retirement plan as well as paid time off!

Selection Plan

Please ensure that your application is complete and you have included your resume in the “Resume Tab” of your application as you will be unable to make revisions once you submit your application into the JobAps system.  Individuals considered for interview will be required to submit additional documentation supporting their qualification(s) for this position. These documents may include performance reviews, attendance, supervisory references, college transcripts, licensure, etc.  You do not have to attach these documents to your application.

Should you have questions pertaining to this recruitment, please contact Doreen Clemson at Doreen.Clemson@ct.gov or (860) 262-7116.

PURPOSE OF JOB CLASS (NATURE OF WORK)

In a state facility, this class is accountable for rendering bedside care or mental health services to individuals with physical and/or intellectual disabilities in instances where the services of a registered nurse are not required.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Assists doctors and nurses in the general care and treatment of individuals; measures doses and administers medications including insulin injections; documents medications using appropriate forms; performs narcotic counts; checks and may administer intravenous medications; reports changes in individuals to doctors; ensures that restraints are applied correctly; transcribes doctors medication orders; dispenses certain medications in doctor’s absence; applies topical medication; takes and charts temperatures, pulses and respirations; performs simple nursing treatments; monitors general individual needs including personal hygiene; reports on individual conditions and behavior; keeps the unit safe and healthy; administers enemas or suppositories; performs Foley catheterization care; orients individuals concerning medications and their use; may perform emergency first aid; may drive individuals to necessary appointments/outings; performs related duties as required.

DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES: performs the full range of duties as described in the class specification for the Lead Developmental Services Worker.

DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SERVICES: performs the full range of duties as described in class specifications for the Mental Health Assistant 1 or Mental Health Assistant 2.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY

Knowledge of practical nursing specialties and bedside care; knowledge of various medications used in conjunction for the care of individuals who have physical and/or intellectual disabilities; knowledge of infection control practices; some knowledge of nutrition and diets; basic knowledge of medical and lab sciences; considerable interpersonal skills; ability to keep records; some ability to lead staff.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

License or temporary permit to practice nursing in Connecticut by the State Board of Examiners for Nursing.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES: Incumbents in this class may be required to possess and retain a valid Connecticut Motor Vehicle Operator's license, Public Passenger Endorsement or Commercial Driver's license for designated positions.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Incumbents in this class may be required to lift/restrain individuals; may have some exposure to communicable/infectious diseases and to some risk of injury from assaultive/abusive individuals; may be exposed to disagreeable conditions.

Conclusion

AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.