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The Licensed Nurse is responsible for the health and dental services of the Head Start/Early Head Start (HS/EHS) Program. This position provides oversight and development of systems, providing and coordinating health services in cooperation with other health care agencies to Head Start/Early Head Start children & families. The health services area of the program is an integral part of the larger system of services provided by HS/EHS and plays an important part in supporting the goals of the program. This includes ensuring compliance with performance standards and recognized best practices in health and dental services and community networking. The Licensed Nurse is a member of the HS/EHS Management Team and works in tandem with other program coordinators and specialists.

The Licensed Nurse:

• Reviews and revises the health work plan annually. Develops a system for administering and monitoring the health work plan. Monitors compliance with the Performance Standards in the Child Health and Developmental Service Area.
• Establishes policies and procedures for the health portion of the program with parents and staff that support the effective implementation of health services.
• Develops a list of local health and related resources and defines procedures for the effective use of these resources. Initiates and establishes working relationships with local providers through contractual agreements as appropriate.
• Establishes a system for providing health education to families through workshops, parent meetings, handouts, etc.
• Develops and implements and system of continuous monitoring and evaluation of actives within the program. Keeps complete records and documentation of all contacts.
• Develops a system for maintenance of individual health records on children. Reviews, evaluates, and interprets health records, vital statistics and other data affecting health services.
• Establishes a yearly system of training and health education for staff, to include CPR, First Aid and Nutrition.
• Responsible for the planning, convening and implementation of policies and/or procedures of the quarterly Health Services Advisory Council meetings.
• Develop a developmentally appropriate health education curriculum for children and parents that can be integrated into program activities.
• Identifies and establishes a rapport with health professionals to provide services to the program such as vision and dental screenings, nutrition.
• Knowledge of community health resources to assist families.
• Conducts monthly visits for Head Start/Early Head Start in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards and licensing.
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of Performance Standards with specific knowledge of Child Health.
• Participates in the staffing of children as needed and is responsible for all health recommendations, as needed.
• Serves as a specialist to teachers and family service workers.
• Attends trainings, seminars, and meetings as deemed necessary by the Director.
• Follows the state and federal regulations pertaining to Child Abuse and Neglect. Maintains strict confidentiality of all information.
• Develops medical protocols as necessary to support "least restrictive environment" for children.
• Observes assigned classrooms regularly and provide consultation related to health, safety, and sanitation issues.
• Other duties as assigned to ensure the successful operation of the program.

The above knowledge and abilities are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree in health services and/or Registered Nurse in the State of Missouri.

Candidates must have:

• Considerable knowledge of general health, dental, human development, community health, nursing principles, practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of public health programs and the availability of such programs in the community.
• Knowledge of all city, state, and federal guidelines related to health care.
• Must demonstrate proficiency in the operation and maintenance of instruments and equipment used in patient care in performing any required procedures.
• Bachelor's degree in health/nutrition services.
• A registered or licensed practical nurse in the state of Missouri required.
• At least three (3) years of experience working with disadvantaged and low-income clients and one year experience in an administrative area is preferred.
• At least (1) year experience in an administrative area.
• Must have a valid driver's license.

*Per program policies a health exam, clear tuberculosis screen, Hepatitis A vaccination and background check are required for hire.

We offer a positive work environment, competitive salary and an excellent benefit package. Preference will be extended to applicants with the appropriate degree. Current and former Head Start parents will receive preference for employment vacancies for which they are qualified.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service or status, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other status protected by law.