Description:
$10,.000 sign on bonus
I. JOB SUMMARY: The Direct Care Nurse provides specialized nursing care to individuals with medical and physical disabilities in an Intermediate. This includes performing nursing duties under a person-centered care model, ensuring high-quality care that supports each individual’s health plan. The nurse will be expected to work in a collaborative environment with healthcare professionals, caregivers, and families, providing consistent care, support, and advocacy for the individuals in the facility.
II. RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Assessment:
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Conduct comprehensive, daily physical and health assessments of assigned individuals to monitor their medical conditions, growth, and development.
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Identify and respond to any changes in the health status of the individual in a timely manner.
B. Monitoring:
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Continuously monitor individuals' health conditions, including vital signs, medication effectiveness, and physical status throughout shifts.
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Regularly review care plans, ensuring that any changes in conditions or needs are addressed.
C. Administration of Medications and Treatments:
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Administer prescribed medications, tube feedings, and treatments in accordance with medical orders and care protocols.
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Ensure proper documentation and tracking of medication administration and treatment outcomes.
D. Documentation:
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Document all nursing interventions, assessments, and any changes in condition accurately and promptly in the electronic health record (EHR).
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Ensure that all documentation meets facility standards and supports quality care delivery.
E. Procedures:
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Provide and assist with medical procedures as needed, including wound care, and tracheostomy care, based on the training and needs of the individual.
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Ensure that all procedures are conducted safely and in alignment with the facility’s protocols.
F. Emergency Response:
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Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies, including medical crises or accidents, by providing immediate care and implementing emergency protocols as necessary.
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Maintain readiness to provide care in urgent situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the individual.
G. Inventory Management:
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Maintain an inventory of nursing supplies and medications, ensuring timely ordering, restocking, and tracking of medical equipment.
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Monitor expiration dates for medications and supplies, ensuring proper handling and disposal according to facility policies.
H. Policy Adherence:
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Adhere to all facility policies, safety protocols, and regulatory guidelines, including those for infection control, emergency procedures, and patient confidentiality.
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Participate in regular audits and reviews to ensure compliance with all policies.
I. Continuing Education:
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Participate in ongoing professional development and continuing education, staying current with best practices in pediatric nursing care, especially for individuals with complex medical needs.
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Attend mandatory in-services, workshops, and additional training as required by the facility.
J. Supervision and Leadership:
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Act as Charge Nurse as assigned, providing leadership and guidance to other nursing staff.
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Provide preceptorship for new nursing staff, supporting their integration into the team.
K. Care Plan Development and Participation:
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Collaborate with the interdisciplinary healthcare team to develop, review, and update individualized care plans (ISP) to meet the evolving needs of each individual.
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Ensure care delivery is consistent with the individualized plans and that all goals are met.
L. Collaboration with Healthcare Team:
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Work closely with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care and support for individuals.
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Communicate any concerns or changes in an individual’s condition to the appropriate team members and family members.
M. Advocacy and Support:
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Advocate for the rights and well-being of each individual, ensuring their dignity, comfort, and quality of life are maintained.
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Provide emotional support to both individuals and their families, fostering positive relationships.
N. Documentation and Reporting:
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Document all activities related to nursing care and medical treatments in a timely and accurate manner.
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Ensure proper communication of individual health statuses, treatment outcomes, and progress to families, staff, and the healthcare team
Requirements:
Conduct:
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Complies with attendance and punctuality policies.
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Works collaboratively with all team members and is respectful toward families, staff, and visitors.
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Follows instructions with a positive attitude and a willingness to support others.
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Acts as an ambassador for the facility, ensuring a professional demeanor in all interactions.
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Wear appropriate job attire and ID badge as required.
Qualifications:
Education:
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Must be a graduate of an accredited nursing school.
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Must hold a valid, active Virginia LPN or RN license
Experience:
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Preferably one year of experience in pediatric or medical/surgical nursing.
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Experience in care for individuals with complex medical conditions, including those requiring specialized equipment (e.g., tracheostomies), is highly desirable.
Certifications:
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Current CPR certification.
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Additional training and certifications may be required, particularly for specialized care needs (e.g., tracheostomy).
Skills and Abilities:
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Ability to make critical nursing decisions in emergency situations.
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Knowledge and skill in administering medical treatments and specialized nursing techniques.
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Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
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Ability to collaborate effectively with families, team members, and external healthcare providers.
Physical Requirements:
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Ability to lift up to 35 pounds and assist with patient mobility.
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Ability to stand, sit, and walk for extended periods as needed.
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Strong vision and hearing abilities to monitor patient health and ensure accurate assessments.
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Must always wear company-issued ID.
Additional Requirements:
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Flexibility in work hours: Must be willing to work a variety of shifts as required by the facility, including weekends, holidays, and emergencies.
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Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, contributing to a collaborative, person-centered care environment.
Core Values:
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Kind: Providing compassionate care with patience and understanding.
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Compassionate: Responding to the needs of individuals with empathy and genuine concern.
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Person-Centered: Tailoring care to the unique needs and preferences of each individual.
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Engaging: Actively participating in activities that enhance the quality of life of individuals.
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Collaborative: Working together with team members, families, and healthcare providers for the benefit of each individual.
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Fun: Creating an enjoyable, positive environment for both individuals and team members.
