Description
Every effort has been made to identify the essential functions of this position. However, it in no way states or implies that these are the only duties you will be required to perform. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or is an essential function of the position.
Administrative Functions
- Assist the Director of Nursing Services in directing the day-to-day functions of the nursing activities in accordance with current rules, regulations, and guidelines that govern the long-term care facility.
- Participate in developing, maintaining, and updating written policies and procedures that govern the day-to-day functions of the nursing service department.
- Ensure that reference material (e.g., PDRs, regulations, professional standards of practice) maintained at the nurses' stations is current.
- Recommend written material that will assist the nursing service department in meeting the day-to-day needs of the resident.
- Ensure that the Nursing Service Procedures Manual is current and reflects the daily nursing procedures performed in the facility.
- Ensure compliance with procedures set forth in the Nursing Service Procedures Manual by all nursing service personnel.
- Make written and oral reports/recommendations to the Director concerning the operation of the nursing service department as necessary.
- Periodically review the department's policies, procedure manuals, job descriptions, and make recommendations for revisions.
- Assist in developing methods for coordinating nursing services with other resident services to ensure continuity of care.
- Ensure all nursing personnel are in compliance with their job descriptions.
- Participate in the facility's quality assurance program for the nursing service department.
- Participate in facility surveys by authorized agencies as requested.
- Review and update the resident's discharge plan as necessary and assist in planning the nursing services portion of the discharge plan.
- Meet with nursing staff and support personnel to plan services, programs, and activities.
- Admit, transfer, and discharge residents as required.
- Complete accident/incident reports as necessary.
- Interpret department policies to personnel, residents, visitors, and agencies.
- Perform administrative duties like completing forms, reports, and evaluations.
- Ensure confidentiality of resident and facility information and report violations.
Committee Functions
- Attend and participate in various facility committee meetings.
- Assist in preparing reports on nursing service programs and activities.
- Provide information to the Quality Assurance and Assessment Committee.
- Participate in developing agendas for the Care Plan Committee meetings.
- Implement committee recommendations as instructed by the Director.
Personnel Functions
- Ensure sufficient staffing of licensed nurses and nursing assistants.
- Develop work assignments and delegate duties appropriately.
- Ensure all nursing assistants are properly trained and supervised.
- Conduct daily rounds to monitor staff performance and report findings.
- Monitor absenteeism and staffing adequacy.
- Ensure policies and dress codes are followed.
- Review complaints and grievances from staff.
- Maintain good interdepartmental relationships.
- Create a positive work environment.
- Meet regularly with staff to address issues and improve services.
- Review and evaluate staffing and make personnel recommendations.
- Administer disciplinary actions fairly and without discrimination.
- Report occupational exposures and security violations.
- Ensure security of computer workstations and patient information.
Nursing Care Functions
- Inform staff of new admissions and prepare rooms accordingly.
- Greet and escort new residents.
- Coordinate with physicians and staff for resident care planning.
- Monitor and evaluate residents' physical and emotional status.
- Ensure direct nursing care is provided by qualified personnel.
- Review nurses' notes and ensure documentation accuracy.
- Provide direct care as necessary.
- Start IVs, collect specimens, and perform vital signs as ordered.
- Manage resident admissions, transfers, and discharges.
- Report issues to the Director and assist in corrective actions.
- Arrange transportation for discharges and notify families of resident status.
Staff Development
- Develop and conduct in-service training programs.
- Assist in planning clinical supervision for trainees.
- Participate in continuing education to maintain licensure.
Safety and Sanitation
- Assist in developing safety standards.
- Ensure proper handling of hazardous materials and use of PPE.
- Monitor cleanliness and sanitation of work areas.
- Participate in infection control and reporting procedures.
- Ensure safety protocols are followed in equipment use and resident handling.
Equipment and Supply Functions
- Recommend equipment and supply needs.
- Maintain adequate stock levels.
- Assist in preventive maintenance of equipment.
- Ensure safe operation and proper use of equipment.
- Monitor supply usage to prevent waste.
- Maintain MSDSs for hazardous chemicals.
Care Plan and Assessment Functions
- Participate in assessments and development of care plans.
- Encourage resident participation in care planning.
- Review and update care plans regularly.
- Ensure staff are aware of and follow care plans.
- Review and evaluate residents' treatments and goals.
Budget and Planning
- Stay informed about economic conditions affecting nursing services.
- Recommend equipment and resource adjustments.
- Report suspected fraud or financial irregularities.
Supervisory Requirements
- Assist in supervising and managing nursing staff.
- Delegate authority and responsibilities appropriately.
Qualifications
- Must have a Nursing Degree from an accredited institution.
- Training in rehabilitative and restorative nursing preferred.
- Minimum 2 years experience in a long-term care setting preferred.
- Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.
- Ability to interpret policies, procedures, and technical information.
- Ability to apply mathematical concepts.
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
- Leadership and supervisory abilities.
- Knowledge of laws, regulations, and standards governing nursing facilities.
- Patience, tact, and a positive attitude.
- Willingness to learn and adapt new practices.
- Ability to communicate effectively with residents, families, and staff.
- Must hold a current, active RN license and CPR certification.
- Knowledge of PCC preferred.
- Maintain ongoing licensure and certifications.
Physical Demands
Must be able to move throughout the workday, handle physical tasks, and cope with emotional stress. Must meet health requirements and be able to lift at least 25 pounds.
Work Environment
Work may involve office and clinical areas, with exposure to various hazards and stressful situations. Flexibility to work beyond regular hours and respond to emergencies is required.