What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community Health RN position at PALO ALTO COUNTY HEALTH SYSTEM?
Our Community Health Registered Nurses play a vital role in promoting wellness and improving the health of individuals, families, and the communities we serve. As a Community Health RN, you will provide professional nursing services in homes, clinics, schools, and community settings while helping patients achieve and maintain optimal health. This position will be primarily responsible for delivering school nursing services, supporting the health, safety, and well-being of students while collaborating with families, educators, and community partners. You will work independently and collaboratively with physicians, healthcare providers, patients, families, and community resources to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care throughout Palo Alto County.
In this role, you will assess patients' health status, living environments, and social factors to identify healthcare needs and develop individualized plans of care. You will provide skilled nursing services, patient and family education, health counseling, care coordination, and referrals to community resources when appropriate. Responsibilities include implementing and evaluating care plans, identifying medically at-risk individuals, assisting patients in accessing preventive and supportive services, and supervising Home Health Aides to ensure quality care delivery. You will also serve as a trusted resource for health-related consultation and education within the community.
Your responsibilities include maintaining accurate and timely documentation, supporting agency policies and procedures, and contributing to a high-quality, patient-centered care environment. You will participate in community health initiatives, wellness programs, screenings, clinics, and educational outreach opportunities designed to improve the health of community residents. Under the guidance of departmental leadership, you will assist in identifying community health needs, developing programs, evaluating service effectiveness, and supporting continuous quality improvement efforts. You will actively pursue professional development opportunities and stay current with healthcare regulations and best practices.
This role requires strong clinical assessment abilities, excellent communication and organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Candidates must be graduates of an accredited nursing program and hold a current Iowa Registered Nurse license. A Bachelor's Degree in Nursing is preferred. Current BLS certification, completion of Dependent/Adult Abuse Mandatory Reporting requirements, basic computer proficiency, and the ability to work flexible hours and participate in on-call rotations are required. Candidates must possess a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation for travel throughout the service area. Previous home health or medical-surgical nursing experience is preferred; however, committed and motivated nurses are encouraged to apply.
Employee Benefits
PACHS offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial stability, and professional success.
Health & Wellness
- Two medical plan options (PPO and HDHP) with no-cost preventive care
- Employer HSA contributions for HDHP participants
- Dental insurance with 100% preventive coverage
- Vision coverage
- Discounted membership to the Arthur & Audrey Smith Wellness Center
Financial Security
- Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS)
- Employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D insurance
- Optional voluntary life insurance
- Employer-paid Short-Term Disability
- Employer-paid Long-Term Disability
- Voluntary Accident and Critical Illness coverage
Time Off & Lifestyle
- PTO begins accruing on your first day
- PTO cash-out program available up to four times per year
- Holiday Club payroll savings program
Support & Resources
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering 24/7 confidential counseling, financial coaching, legal support, and more
About Palo Alto County Health System
Palo Alto County Health System is the healthcare hub of choice in Northwest Iowa, committed to delivering exceptional patient-centered care supported by a culture of teamwork, respect, and compassion. PACHS provides a family-oriented and supportive workplace where employees feel valued, appreciated, and empowered to grow professionally. When you join PACHS, you join a mission-driven team dedicated to caring for our community — and for one another.