Registered Nurse III

Registered Nurse III

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is seeking a qualified nursing professional with strong leadership skills for our Registered Nurse III (RN III) position. The RN III provides consultation and oversight for the Medication Administration Program (MAP) in designated Central West state operated homes. The incumbent will work with agency staff to assure accuracy and efficiency in their medication administration practices by providing formal and on-the-job training as needed.

The preferred candidate should model a positive and competent image that supports the agency's mission and operational policies while maintaining regulatory and departmental compliance.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):
Coordinates, implements, and supervises the administrative and clinical operations of the Central West State Operated MAP program. Originates and updates agency MAP Provider Policies as needed. Maintains MAP Trainer certification and provides initial and ongoing training to agency staff. Completes regular reviews of the MAP program in designated community homes to ensure compliance with DDS and DPH policies, regulations, and procedures.

Makes recommendations for program and staff improvement as needed, confers with management team on issues, and conducts individual and group supervisory meetings with community home staff. Performs related duties such as compiling statistics, preparing reports, and reviewing and analyzing trends on MAP related topics within Central West State Operated program. Fosters high standards of resident care through the provision of diligent orientation and continuing education efforts of staff including Healthcare Advocacy, Essential Skills, Infection Control, First Aid/CPR, and other health-related topics.

Maintains personal/professional growth and proficiency by attending professional meetings, conferences, and continuing education programs to remain current with healthcare trends and contemporary nursing practices; maintains professional licenses and certifications, and shares knowledge with other staff within the department.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Proficient understanding of the principles and practices of professional nursing. This includes standard nursing policies, emergency procedures and other methods/techniques including safe administration of medications. Experience in providing care for people with developmental disabilities such as Autism, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy. Capacity to maintain accurate records and exercise discretion in handling confidential information. Possess creativity, integrity, and initiative; ability to provide critical thinking skills to address clinical issues.

Competent in communicating information and subject matter expertise in a clear and constructive manner. Demonstrated success in the development and implementation of quality care. Skilled at working independently and able to travel throughout the Central West Region. Basic familiarity with PC-based systems and Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Please Note:

This position is located in Commonwealth Community Program in Northampton, MA. This position will also provide support to the Templeton Community Service program in Baldwinville, MA. At times this position will provide support to the Central Residential Service program located in Worcester, MA. The position requires significant travel throughout the Central West Region.

Schedule:

Monday through Friday - 9:00am - 5:00pm. Days off:
Sunday/Saturday Flexibility is required to meet the needs of the program.

About the Department of Developmental Services:
The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages…