What are the responsibilities and job description for the Registered Nurse Stroke Coordinator position at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center?
Description
Position Summary
The Stroke Coordinator (Registered Nurse) supports the coordination and delivery of neurology care services across outpatient and inpatient settings. This role functions in a primarily clerical and care coordination capacity within the outpatient clinic, while also providing limited direct patient care duties within scope of licensure, including obtaining vital signs and health histories. The Stroke Coordinator (RN) collaborates with neurologists, registered nurses, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure efficient scheduling, authorization, follow-up, and telemedicine support for stroke patients.
Primary Responsibilities
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary responsibilities.
1. Obtain and document vital signs, medication reconciliation, and comprehensive health histories.
2. Prepare patients for provider evaluation.
3. Perform basic clinical documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR).
4. Communicate patient concerns or changes in status to the supervising RN or provider.
5. Obtain prior authorizations for outpatient appointments, diagnostic imaging, and post-visit testing (e.g., MRI, CT, vascular studies, cardiac monitoring, specialty referrals).
6. Schedule follow-up appointments, diagnostic studies, and ancillary services.
7. Track completion of ordered tests and ensure timely follow-up.
8. Communicate with insurance companies, patients, and external providers to coordinate care.
9. Maintain organized documentation and ensure accuracy in the EMR.
10. Assist with referral processing and medical records requests.
11. Round with the neurologist using telemedicine equipment in the inpatient setting.
12. Prepare patients for tele-stroke evaluations.
13. Assist with positioning and operating telemedicine carts during consultations.
14. Serve as a liaison between bedside nursing staff, neurologists, and ancillary departments during tele-stroke encounters.
15. Ensure documentation and required forms are completed appropriately.
16. Assist with maintaining program documentation and regulatory requirements.
17. Support data collection for performance metrics and quality improvement initiatives.
18. Help coordinate education materials for patients and staff.
Competencies
1. Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate effectively in English (other languages desirable)
2. Ability to concentrate when there are numerous interruptions.
3. Knowledge of automated systems and basic computer software.
4. Ability to type 50 wpm.
5. Ability to meet deadlines and work with time constraints.
6. Ability to use appropriate discretion in handling confidential material and information.
7. Good telephone techniques.
8. Ability to deal with the public in a tactful manner.
9. Ability to perform detailed assignments, work accurately, follow directions, and assess priorities.
10. Strong organizational and time management skills
Supervisory Responsibility
None.
Requirements
Required Education and Experience
Licensed Registered Nurse (RN) with current and active license with the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN).
Preferred Education and Experience
1. Minimum of 1–2 years of clinical or ambulatory care experience
2. Experience in neurology, cardiology, or emergency care
3. Previous experience with insurance and pre-authorizations, similar medical facility, or physician’s office preferred.
4. Familiarity with telemedicine platforms