Travel Nurse RN - Behavioral Health
Willimantic, CT
First Connect Health
5x8 hrs, Evenings
Referral Bonus

RN - Detox (Addiction Medicine) – Willimantic, CT

Contract Duration: 13 Weeks (04/27/2026 – 07/25/2026)

Shift: Nights (23:00 – 07:30) | Sunday – Thursday (40 Hours Weekly)

Job Summary

Seeking a compassionate and clinically vigilant RN for their Acute Care Evaluation (Detox) unit at The Ridge Recovery Center. This role focuses on the medical management of patients in the acute phase of withdrawal from alcohol and other substances. Working the night shift, you will be the primary clinical lead during hours where withdrawal symptoms often peak, requiring sharp assessment skills and the ability to provide both medical intervention and emotional support.

Key Responsibilities

• Withdrawal Monitoring: Perform serial assessments using standardized protocols such as CIWA (Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol) and COWS (Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale).
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Administer and monitor the efficacy of detox medications (e.g., Suboxone, Methadone, benzodiazepines, or clonidine) to manage autonomic instability and patient comfort.
• Seizure & Delirium Precautions: Identify early markers of severe withdrawal, including Delirium Tremens (DTs) or seizure activity, and initiate emergency protocols as needed.
• Holistic Care: Support patients through the psychological distress of early sobriety, providing a safe and non-judgmental environment.
• Documentation: Utilize Epic to track vitals, medication administration, and behavioral changes.
• Collaborative Planning: Coordinate with the interdisciplinary team to prepare patients for the next level of care (Residential or Outpatient treatment).

Requirements & Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum 2 years of acute care nursing experience is required.
• Preferred Specialties: Strong preference for candidates with a background in Behavioral Health or Addiction Medicine.
• Licensure: Active Connecticut (CT) RN License.
• Certifications: AHA BLS (Required).
• Technical Skills: Epic EMR experience is highly preferred.

Unit & Facility Details

• Address: Willimantic, CT 06226.
• Cost Center: 20200.711050.
• Schedule Perk: Fixed Sunday through Thursday schedule, providing a consistent Friday/Saturday weekend.

Clinical Spotlight: The Detox Night Sentinel

In a detox setting, the "NOC" shift is the most critical period for patient safety. Physiological withdrawal symptoms frequently intensify overnight, and the risk of autonomic hyperreactivity (tachycardia, hypertension, tremors) is highest. Your expertise in differentiating between "drug-seeking behavior" and "true clinical distress" is vital. By providing timely medication and reassessment, you prevent patients from "leaving against medical advice" (AMA) and ensure they survive the most dangerous phase of their recovery journey.

Willimantic is a unique, historic "Thread City" located in the quiet corner of Connecticut, home to Eastern Connecticut State University.