What are the responsibilities and job description for the Nurse Practitioner position at Meharry Medical College?
Nurse Practitioner (NP) performs various functions, such as diagnose, treat and manage certain diseases; perform physical exams and order tests; and write prescriptions. The NP can work without doctor supervision and can be a patient's primary care provider. This position will also practice primary care and family medicine in collaboration with a faculty physician.
Daily Operations:
- Performs preliminary assessment of patient through observation and interview, and physical assessment; appropriately diagnose and treat identified health problems within scope of practice; identifies patient’s concerns.
- Communicates procedures to patient to maximize emotional and physical comfort. Communicates procedures to patient to maximize emotional and physical comfort. Evaluates findings of examinations and procedures performed; documents in patient’s record
- Notifies physician when finds problems or abnormalities; performs physician examinations and procedures according to guidelines; documents inpatient chart. Identifies patient/family education needs regarding health status. Completes reports and submits to supervisor as requested. Maintains strict confidentiality in matters relating to patients and clinic personnel.
- Utilized appropriate channels to communicate stressful situations and problems. Maintains flexibility in relation to patient assignment and work schedule.
- Demonstrates accurate knowledge of legal implications and appropriate application of clinical and administrative policies and procedures.
- Demonstrates accurate knowledge and appropriate application of clinical and administrative policies and procedures.
- Practices current safety knowledge, infection control and sterilization policies, and procedures.
- Actively participates in Quality Assessment programs
- Responds appropriately in actual or simulated emergencies and demonstrates knowledge of fire, STAT and disaster procedures.
- Provides proper cleaning and care for equipment and supplies and preventive maintenance for equipment
- Performs other related duties as assigned by Executive Director, Medical Director or Supervisor.
Required Skills:
- Demonstrates a general understanding and knowledge of primary care, family medicine, and the Elam Mental Health Center Clinic office standards, procedures, medical terminology, and medical office practices.
- Demonstrates a general understanding and knowledge of front/back office standards, procedures, medical terminology, and medical office practices.
- Ability to handle multiple tasks, independently, under pressure.
- Core Competencies; Patient Assessment, Clinical Procedure with Scope of Service
- Knowledge of examination, diagnostic, and treatment room procedures.
- Knowledge of medical equipment and instruments to administer patient care.
- Knowledge of OSHA, Infection Control, and safety hazards and precautions to establish a safe working environment.
- Knowledge of chart documentation requirements and recording test results.
- Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, and the public.
- Ability to maintain quality control standards.
- Ability to interpret, adapt and apply guidelines and procedures.
- Ability to operate computer and printer, general office equipment, and telephone equipment
Required Education and Experience:
The educational requirements for nurse practitioners vary by state but most require a Master's or Doctoral degree or post-Master's certificate.
Preferred graduate of an approved adult or family nurse practitioner program. Must be a registered nurse in the State of Tennessee and be board certified/board eligible to practice as an adult or family nurse practitioner. Eligible for a certificate of fitness to prescribe medication in the State of Tennessee, if applicable.