Description

The consulting nurse is assigned to a specific case load serving medically and behaviorally complex individuals. The consulting nurse will float between assigned caseload to complete skilled nursing tasks, assessments, and medical oversight.

PRIMARY PURPOSE:  Use nursing skills to ensure that individuals maintain good health and are able to participate in desired daily activities and relationships.

KEY ACTIVITIES:

1. Initial assessment when each individual moves in and ongoing assessment of each person.
2. Assist the Program Manager with medical case management, attending doctor’s appointments when needed to facilitate effective care.
3. Contact with hospitals, working with hospital staff, discharge coordinators and case managers to ensure continuity of care during any hospitalizations.
4. Attend staff meetings to discuss observations and concerns and provide on-going staff training.
5. With the Director of Nursing, develop policies and procedures specific to the individuals’ needs for medical intervention and safeguards.
6. Facilitate the acquisition and repair of all adaptive equipment. Monitor adaptive equipment for safety, ensuring staff know how to use it.
7. Observe care routines as needed including personal hygiene, transfers, eating, and monitoring for safe and effective care.
8. Complete medical progress notes when medical status changes or nurse intervention is needed.
9. Update Health Care Records in the HCSIS system.
10. Regular review of medications and side effects.
11. Review of medical and medication documentation to ensure it is complete and accurate.
12. Oversight of fall prevention measures for the home
13. For diabetics, ensure that the ADA diabetic standards of care are met.
14. Participate in clinical meetings with the individual, the service coordinator, the Coordinator of Behavioral and Mental Health, day and residential staff and families to problem solve and coordinate care.
15. LPN consulting nurses may not act as a MAP Consultant for any program. MAP questions must be referred to the agency MAP consultant or an RN.
16. At times administer medication when in the assigned home.
17.  Staff training in medical protocols, personal care skills, specific treatments, and healthy lifestyles.

OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED:

• On-call one weekend every 6 weeks, as well as holiday on-call obligations
• Go on outings with the individuals
• Assess medical equipment for appropriateness and safety
• Update medical records
• In some homes, order medications
• Review medication sheets and medical documentation

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS:

• Current Massachusetts LPN or RN license
• Experience working with elders and people with Intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Clinical, organizational and communication skills
• Regular and predictable attendance.
• Valid driver’s license with a minimum of 1 year driving experience.