Trach​/Wound Care Nurse

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for trach changes, trach tie changes, and wound care, per physician's orders and CHC policy. Assesses problems and anticipates potential problems, and reacts appropriately. Understands and follows instructions from various practitioners, including physicians, nurse managers, and charge nurses. Abides by the IL Nurse Practice Act and IDPH rules and regulations.

• Administers and charts treatments and medications
• Maintains the treatment cart in a clean and orderly manner
• Makes frequent rounds to all assigned patients to assess patients and anticipate problems
• Directs team assistants as needed
• Documents the stage, measurements (length, width, and depth), and condition (color, odor, drainage) of all breakdowns in the decubitus care book and medical record
• Notifies the physician of all new-onset breakdowns by completing an Encounter
• Monitors the healing process of all breakdowns; informs nursing management and physician using the Encounter Form
• Completes trach tube changes per trach change schedule and CHC procedures and documents same in the medical record, on the MAR, and checks to chart
• Documents problems or issues on the interdisciplinary progress
• Maintains an extra trach and a step-down trach (per
  
  D. order) at each patient's bedside
• Participates in quality improvement activities; precepts new employees and provides training for caregivers/guardians as needed
• Sees that all equipment is in working order and that supplies are available
• Abides by CHC policies
• Performs other duties as assigned

• IL Registered or Licensed Practical Nurse
• Must be able to lift and carry patients up to 50 pounds
• Good visual and auditory acuity; must be able to walk, stand, stop, and kneel for extended periods
• Use of both arms in the provision of care; ability to move quickly from place to place
• Good oral and written communication skills

• Usual works in a well-lighted, well-ventilated area
• May come in contact with potentially infectious material