New Jersey Administrative Code
Title 10 - HUMAN SERVICES
Chapter 161B - STANDARDS FOR LICENSURE OF OUTPATIENT SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER TREATMENT FACILITIES
Subchapter 12 - DETOXIFICATION SERVICES
Section 10:161B-12.2 - Staff qualifications

1. Outpatient detoxification services shall be under the direction of a medical director who meets the requirements set forth in 10:161B-1.4, and who can demonstrate at least two years of direct experience in the provision of detoxification services.

2. If the program employs physicians under the direction of the medical director, such physicians shall not be required to be ASAM-certified but shall meet the experiential requirements of two years of direct experience providing detoxification services, and shall be supervised by the medical director.

3. If the program elects to employ advanced practice nurses (APNs) or physician assistants (PAs) to supplement the services of the medical director or other physicians, such practitioners shall operate in accordance with all applicable State statutes and rules. APNs and PAs shall be required to have at least two years of direct experience in the treatment of substance abusing and dependent individuals, including the provision of detoxification services.

4. A registered professional nurse shall be on duty at the program during all hours of operation when clients being detoxed are present. The registered professional nurse shall have specific training and experience in substance abuse treatment, including detoxification services. The registered professional nurse shall assess each client daily, seven days a week, including assessment of withdrawal symptoms using established written protocols, vital signs and drug screening in accordance with program policies. If the program administers medication onsite, the registered professional nurse shall reassess vital signs and withdrawal symptoms prior to the client's departure.

5. The program shall employ a director of substance abuse counseling who meets the qualifications set forth in 10:161B-1.8.