Provides nursing care including detoxification services to patients with mental health illnesses and addictions.

Assesses, plans, implements and evaluates nursing care for patients according to accepted nursing practice and standards; nurses patients through withdrawal / maintenance / stabilisation interventions; perform treatment planning using AOD treatment models; assesses level of client’s need for medical / social detoxification and medication management; works in consultation with other health professionals and members of health teams, and co-ordinates the care of patients; provides interventions, treatments and therapies such as medications, and monitors responses to treatment and care plans; assists in planning for discharge and relapse prevention using community resources and family/ whanau/social support systems; promotes health and assists in preventing ill-health by participating in health education and other health promotion activities; answers questions and provides information to patients and families about treatment and care; supervises and co-ordinates the work of enrolled nurses and other health care workers.

Works indoors in detoxification clinics, hospital wards and clinics and other health care facilities in private and public hospitals, medical centres and specialist practices and clinics. Works in adequately lit, heated, ventilated and clean, well maintained and hygienic workspaces. Frequently works shifts.

• Light to heavy physical demand.
• Sits occasionally during patient briefings, writing reports and at staff meetings.
• Stands and walks frequently to monitor and examine patients, gather and use equipment, medications and deliver other medical interventions.
• Lifting up to a heavy demand will be required when moving patients.
• Occasional bending, squatting, crouching, stretching, twisting and reaching may be required when carrying out nursing procedures.
• Frequent contact with body fluid and materials will necessitate the use of protective clothing and gloves and safety procedures will be adhered to.
• Occasional repetitive hand and finger movements will be necessary when using computers and writing notes.
• There will be frequent use of medical equipment and materials including medicines, medical instruments, blood pressure and temperature taking equipment, medical dressings and sterilising equipment.
• Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with nursing, observation, evaluation, assessment, communication, interpersonal, organisational, problem solving and decision-making capabilities.

• A relevant tertiary qualification, Registration and a current Annual Practising Certificate is required (ANZSCO Skill Level 1).
• In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.