Treatment Nurse at Aviara Healthcare Center in Encinitas, California

Job Description:

Job Title: Treatment Nurse

Position Overview:

The Treatment Nurse will be responsible for providing comprehensive care to residents in accordance with facility guidelines, policies, and regulatory standards. This role involves administrative, clinical, and supervisory duties related to nursing care, ensuring the highest standards of patient care, safety, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. The Treatment Nurse will also support staff development and participate in quality assurance programs to continually improve nursing services.

Key Responsibilities:

Treatment and Direct Care:

• Monitor and administer professional treatments such as wound care, catheterization, tube feeding, and other medical procedures as prescribed.


• Ensure that nursing staff provides appropriate care based on each resident's specific care plan and preferences.


• Perform routine assessments, taking vital signs, documenting changes in patient status, and adjusting care plans as necessary.


• Coordinate with social services, physical therapy, and other departments to ensure holistic care for each resident.


• Follow established protocols for infection control, safety, and resident mobility, ensuring that care areas remain clean and safe.

Administrative Duties:

• Direct the daily operations of nursing assistants, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, policies, and guidelines.


• Periodically review and recommend revisions to the department's policies, procedures, and job descriptions.


• Maintain accurate reports, including daily census and incident reports, and ensure that proper documentation is completed for resident admissions, transfers, discharges, and medical forms.


• Participate in quality assurance programs and coordinate with government agencies during facility surveys.


• Maintain a current Nursing Services Procedures Manual that reflects up-to-date practices and ensures compliance across nursing services.


• Assist in developing and implementing discharge plans for residents, providing support in care coordination.


• Ensure strict adherence to confidentiality and HIPAA regulations, safeguarding all resident information.

Clinical Care and Charting:

• Administer medications and treatments as ordered by physicians, verifying resident identity and ensuring proper documentation.


• Maintain detailed, accurate records of patient care, noting progress, responses, and any changes in treatment plans.


• Collaborate with attending physicians to review and update care plans as necessary.


• Complete incident reports and investigate any issues related to resident care or safety, notifying supervisors as needed.

Staff Development and Education:

• Participate in ongoing education, in-service training, and continuing education programs to stay current with industry standards and maintain licensure.


• Assist with staff orientation, ensuring new employees are familiar with the facility's policies, procedures, and expectations.


• Provide guidance and mentorship to nursing staff, promoting a culture of professional development and excellence in patient care.

Safety and Compliance:

• Oversee compliance with safety regulations, ensuring the proper use of equipment and supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE).


• Monitor infection control practices to safeguard both residents and staff from potential hazards.


• Participate in emergency preparedness drills and assist with resident evacuations as necessary.

Equipment and Supplies Management:

• Ensure that an adequate stock of medical supplies and equipment is maintained, and notify the Nurse Supervisor of any shortages or additional needs.


• Promote the safe and efficient use of nursing equipment and supplies to minimize waste.

Care Plan and Resident Assessment:

• Review and update care plans to ensure that each resident's needs are accurately addressed, making changes as necessary in collaboration with the Care Plan Coordinator.


• Ensure that staff is familiar with and follows each resident's care plan to maintain high standards of care.


• Assist in the preparation and revision of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) and care plans, ensuring that assessments are timely and accurate.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• Must possess an active, unencumbered nursing license (LPN/LVN or RN) in the state of practice.


• Graduation from an accredited LPN/LVN or RN program and a minimum of one year of experience in nursing, preferably in a long-term care or similar setting.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong communication skills, including the ability to present information effectively and work collaboratively with residents, families, and interdisciplinary teams.


• Ability to apply critical thinking and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.


• Proficiency in clinical documentation and use of electronic health records (EHR).


• Knowledge of infection control, medication management, and safety protocols.


• Ability to supervise and develop nursing staff effectively.


• Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational and time-management skills.

Certifications:

• Current CPR and First Aid certification.


• Additional certifications (e.g., wound care, IV therapy) may be required or preferred.

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to move, lift, and support residents (minimum of 25 pounds).


• Must be able to perform the physical tasks required for patient care (e.g., bending, lifting, standing).


• Ability to work in environments that may expose you to infectious materials and physical demands.

Work Environment:

• Works in a healthcare setting, including patient care areas such as nursing stations, resident rooms, and treatment areas.


• May be subject to environmental hazards (e.g., infectious diseases, hazardous chemicals) and emotional stress from working with sick or distressed residents.

Additional Information:

• The above description is intended to convey the general nature and level of work required by this position. It is not an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities, and these may change as necessary to meet the needs of the facility or residents.

This version provides a more concise and clear breakdown of the duties and expectations for the Treatment Nurse, making it easier for potential candidates to understand the responsibilities of the position. Let me know if you'd like further adjustments!

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