PURPOSE:

Functions under the collaborative practice agreement with a physician, provides professional medical services in the community health center setting.

DUTIES, FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Provides comprehensive examination, screening, health education, and treatment of patients within the nurse specialist’s scope of practice using a systematic approach to history and physical appraisal of the patient.

· Examines the patient, performs comprehensive physical examination, and compiles patient medical data, including health history and results of physical examination.

· Administers or orders diagnostic tests and interprets test results for deviations from normal.

· Performs therapeutic procedures, such as injections, immunizations, and managing infections, aspirations, EKG.

· Develops and implements patient comprehensive management plans, records progress notes, and assists in provision of continuity of care.

· Prescribes drugs according to licensed prescriptive authority, dispenses supplies and prescribes other treatments (e.g. physical therapy) to aid in the management of acute and chronic health problems.

· Instructs and counsels patients regarding compliance with prescribed therapeutic regimens.

· Establishes a collaborative relationship with other medical providers and specialists; determines need for consultation and assists in medical care treatment provided at the direction of other specialists.

· Documents and maintains patient records of services provided according to program standards.

· Participates in education of graduate nursing students as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

· Knowledge and skills for the provision of direct patient care in the practice of primary health care.

· Knowledge of the state and federal laws pertaining to patient care and to community health centers.

· Knowledge of the structure and function of community health centers.

· Skill in communicating effectively with patients and their families.

· Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with other employees, patients and the general public.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and/or Equivalent Experience:

· Graduation from an accredited nurse practitioner program. Master’s degree in nursing with advanced skills in physical assessment. ANA Certification prior to or within one year of employment.

LICENSES OR CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

· License to practice in the State of Virginia and possess current DEA registration.