Program Nurse; RN

Overview

The Program Nurse (RN) functions in a direct care nursing capacity and consults with other clinicians regarding health promotion and maintenance, medication administration, and acute and chronic medical / psychiatric crisis management for persons served with Developmental Disabilities. Acts as the Health Care Supervisor and adheres to Mass Health regulations overseeing the direct and indirect nursing care for members in Day Hab.

Follows Policies and Procedures as outlined by Vinfen in supporting Mass Health regulations, CARF standards, and Vinfen expectations.

• Administers medication and medical intervention to members.
• Participates in interdisciplinary team reviews.
• Obtains physicians’ signatures for participation and approval at the Day Hab.
• Promotes values for members, their support team, and staff.
• Documents any changes in members’ health status in reviews as scheduled or more frequently, if needed.
• Advises management team and other staff of any medical problems that may hinder a member’s progress or may be aggravated by activities or groups provided by the Day Hab staff.
• Coordinates communication/services with day program staff, PCP, guardian, family, and residences when there are changes in a participant’s medical status.
• Obtains and maintains required physician orders and other health related documentation, as required by Vinfen and Mass Health regulations.
• Collaborates with Vinfen Nurse Liaison for issues pertaining to the members supported by both residential and day hab services.
• Completes Admission Summary at intake, Nursing Assessment & Plan of Care of Persons served, and monthly nursing summaries with regard to medical and psychiatric conditions.
• For new members, provides relevant education and training to Day Hab staff regarding medical and other health related issues for members. Provides education, consultation, and training to staff and members regarding changes in health status, health promotion, hygiene, and maintenance.
• Reviews referral information and provides input on perspective members.
• Works as a liaison between program and community health care providers to promote access to community resources, quality urgent, and routine medical/dental care. Prepares information as needed for medical appointments related to medical care management for members during a pandemic, state of emergency, or natural disaster.
• Demonstrates best nursing practices and meets state requirement of continuing education to maintain RN licensure and certifications.
• Maintains current knowledge base of human service issues and trends as related to medical, habilitative, and psychiatric issues.
• Provides direct nursing care to members and assists in health care services provided to members while in day hab service.
• Supports staff in crisis management, using Positive Behavior Support (PBS) and Safety Care.
• Supervises any other nursing staff on site, if applicable.
• Provides assistance and support to other Vinfen Day Hab programs, as needed.
• Maintains updated resume on site.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned.

• Knowledge of Human Services
• Knowledge of documentation requirements: DHSP, Interim DSHP, nursing assessment, written goals, objectives, Provider Support Strategies, data sheets, and letters of medical necessity
• Knowledge and use of different communication, augmentation methods used, and learning styles
• Knowledge of computer applications and equipment
• Knowledge of Code of Ethics
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Ability to make independent judgments and decisions
• Knowledge of relevant policies and procedures
• Knowledge of Best Practices in Nursing
• Ability to work in a professional and confidential capacity
• Sensitivity to cultural, religious, racial, disability, and gender issues
• Knowledge and use of advocacy techniques
• Participatory skills, collaborative skills
• Knowledge of human, legal, civil rights, community, and other resources
• Knowledge of available equipment, therapies, and service providers
• Knowledge of empowerment and self advocacy techniques
• Knowledge of required independent living skills
• Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques
• Ability to…