STATE OF CONNECTICUT EXECUTIVE BRANCH JOBS

Licensed Practical Nurse (21 Hour)

Part-Time

Recruitment #210714-5415HN-001

Introduction



Do you want to make a difference while participating in a dynamic and reciprocal health care environment? If so, we have an excellent opportunity to join our team!

The State of Connecticut, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) seeks qualified individuals for Licensed Practical Nurse (PCN 112393 & 112398). These positions are located in Dutcher Services at Whiting Forensic Hospital in Middletown, easily accessible off of Route 9! We offer a second shift (3:00PM – 11:30PM) schedule working 3 days per week; part-time, 21 hours per week. Please note:  working mandatory overtime as necessary for operational needs is a requirement of these positions.
  • PCN 112393 - Week 1: Saturday, Sunday, Monday; Week 2: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
  • PCN 112398 - Week 1: Saturday, Sunday, Thursday; Week 2: Friday, Monday, Tuesday
    **These are hazardous duty positions**
Whiting Forensic Hospital specializes in providing inpatient services to individuals involved in the criminal justice system. The hospital consists of 91 maximum security beds and 138 enhanced security beds. Services are provided to individuals who are admitted under the following categories: Psychiatric Security Review Board commitment, Criminal court order for restoration of competency to stand trial, Civil commitment (voluntary or involuntary) and Transfer from the Department of Correction (during period of incarceration or at end of sentence). Discharge options are dependent on legal status and the purpose of admission.

DISCOVER THE OPPORTUNITY TO:
  • Participate in groups for patients which may include assistance with daily living
  • Participate in community and medical trips
  • Experience with forensic patients while assisting with transitioning into the community
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.

WHAT WE OFFER:
  • A Hazardous Duty pension plan
  • Excellent health benefits along with additional supplemental benefits
  • A challenging and rewarding experience
  • A healthy work-life balance for all employees

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 submission.

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.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, mental health, and substance abuse disorders 
  • Experience with patients/clients with psychiatric disabilities in a hospital setting
  • Experience advocating for services that meet client needs
  • Experience in participating with the development of nursing care and treatment plans
  • Experience in working as part of a multidisciplinary team
  • Experience with a variety of medical and mental health providers in order to coordinate care for client’s behavioral and medical health needs
  • Experience using de-escalation skills in order to utilize least restrictive measures

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.