The Licensed Registered Nurse at Sunshine Community Health Center plays a vital role as an integral member of the interdisciplinary care team, providing direct clinical support and specialty nursing services within the regulations set by the State of Alaska Board of Nursing. Operating within the patient-centered medical home framework, the Licensed Registered Nurse adopts a team-based and trauma-sensitive approach to deliver compassionate and effective healthcare services. In this leadership role, the RN guides other clinical support staff in adherence to quality measures and contributes to the organization's commitment to continuity and comprehensive efforts to enhance the overall well-being of individuals we serve.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: (include but are not limited to)

Direct Clinical Support:

• Provide direct clinical support to patients, ensuring the delivery of high-quality nursing care within the scope of the State of Alaska Board of Nursing's regulations.

• Collaborate with healthcare providers to develop and implement patient care plans.Specialty Nursing Services:

• Deliver specialty nursing services, leveraging expertise to address specific healthcare needs of patients.

• Stay updated on best practices and advancements in specialty nursing areas.Team-Based Approach:

• Operate within a team-based approach, collaborating with healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes.

• Participate in regular team meetings and contribute to interdisciplinary care plans.

  Trauma-Sensitive Care:

• Adopt a trauma-sensitive approach in nursing practices, recognizing, and addressing the potential impact on patients.

• Provide emotional support to patients experiencing trauma.

  Quality Measure Adherence:

• Lead clinical support staff in adherence to quality measures, ensuring the delivery of care meets established standards.

• Collaborate with the healthcare team to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies accordingly.

  Leadership in Clinical Support:

• Provide leadership to clinical support staff, offering guidance, training, and support.

• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment within the clinical team.

  Continuity of Care:

• Contribute to the organization's commitment to continuity of care, participating in initiatives that enhance overall patient well-being.

• Facilitate smooth transitions of care between different healthcare settings.

Quality Improvement Participation:

Implement Quality Requirements:

• Execute and adhere to established quality requirements in daily nursing practice.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and best practices related to nursing care.

  Participate in QI Initiatives:

• Actively engage in Quality Improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and overall healthcare services.

• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary care team to identify areas for improvement.

  Utilize the PDSA Model:

• Apply the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model to systematically approach and implement quality improvement changes.

• Participate in planning sessions to outline improvement strategies and interventions.

  Data Collection and Analysis:

• Assist in collecting relevant data to assess the effectiveness of implemented changes.

• Analyze data to identify trends, areas of success, and opportunities for further improvement.

  Collaboration with Healthcare Team:

• Work collaboratively with healthcare providers, fellow nurses, and support staff to implement and sustain quality improvement initiatives.

• Communicate effectively to ensure the understanding and commitment of the entire team.

  Documentation:

• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation related to quality improvement activities.

• Record changes made, outcomes observed, and any adjustments implemented.

  Continuous Monitoring:

• Monitor the ongoing effectiveness of implemented changes.

• Participate in regular reviews and assessments to ensure sustained improvement over time.

  Training and Education:

• Provide education and training to colleagues regarding quality improvement principles and the PDSA model.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the healthcare team.

  Feedback and Communication:

• Offer constructive feedback to team members during and after the implementation of quality improvement initiatives.

• Communicate successes and challenges transparently to encourage a culture of continuous learning.

  Patient-Centered Approach:

• Ensure that quality improvement initiatives are aligned with a patient-centered approach, emphasizing improved patient outcomes and experiences.

  Adaptability:

• Demonstrate adaptability in implementing changes based on the findings of the PDSA cycle.

• Adjust strategies as needed to achieve desired outcomes.

  Compliance and Reporting:

• Ensure compliance with reporting requirements related to quality improvement initiatives.

• Collaborate with the quality improvement team to submit necessary reports and documentation.

By actively participating in quality improvement initiatives and utilizing the PDSA model, the LPN contributes to the overall enhancement of healthcare services, ensuring that patient care is continuously refined based on evidence-based practices and data-driven insights.

LPN Standards Adherence:

Maintain Licensure and Certifications:

• Ensure active and up-to-date RN licensure and relevant certifications required for the delivery of safe and appropriate patient care.

• Participate in ongoing professional development to stay informed about the latest nursing practices and advancements.

  Nurse Privileging Requirements:

• Complete nurse privileging requirements as outlined by the HR department.

• Cooperate with the HR department to provide necessary documentation and fulfill any additional requirements.

  Support Safe Environments:

• Contribute to creating and maintaining safe patient and staff environments.

• Adhere to safety protocols and actively identify and address potential safety concerns.

  Code of Conduct:

• Adhere to the Sunshine Community Health Center’s Code of Conduct, upholding ethical standards and promoting a positive and respectful work environment.

• Demonstrate professionalism and integrity in all interactions with patients, colleagues, and other stakeholders.

  Nurse Onboarding Competency Checklist:

• Complete the nurse onboarding competency checklist during the onboarding process.

• Participate in orientation programs to ensure a comprehensive understanding of organizational policies and procedures.

  Annual Competency Review:

• Review the nurse onboarding competency checklist annually to stay updated on any changes or additions.

• Engage in ongoing learning opportunities to maintain and enhance nursing competencies.

  Intravenous Therapy Competency Check-Off:

• Complete the annual intravenous therapy competency check-off to ensure proficiency in intravenous therapy procedures.

• Stay informed about the latest standards and best practices in intravenous therapy.

  Charting Documentation:

• Provide accurate and timely charting documentation for examinations and procedures on the appropriate electronic forms.

• Adhere to Sunshine Community Health Center’s policy, ensuring that charting is completed within 72 hours of providing services.

  Policy Adherence:

• Abide by all organizational policies and procedures related to nursing practice.

• Seek clarification or guidance when needed to ensure compliance with established policies.

  Continuous Communication:

• Maintain open and transparent communication with the healthcare team regarding patient care and relevant documentation.

• Collaborate with colleagues to address any concerns or discrepancies in documentation.

  Commitment to Excellence:

• Demonstrate a commitment to excellence in nursing practice through continuous improvement and adherence to high standards.

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care outcomes.

By upholding these standards, the RN ensures not only compliance with regulatory and organizational requirements but also contributes to a culture of safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement within the healthcare setting.

Key Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for an LPN:

Clinical Nursing Knowledge:

• Possess a solid foundation in clinical nursing knowledge, including understanding of medical conditions, treatment plans, and nursing interventions.

  Regulatory Knowledge:

• Stay informed about state nursing regulations and licensing requirements to ensure compliance in daily practice.

  Pharmacology:

• Understanding of pharmacology, including medication administration, dosage calculations, and potential side effects.

  Patient Assessment:

• Proficiency in conducting patient assessments, including vital sign measurement, symptom evaluation, and health history documentation.

  Infection Control:

• Knowledge of infection control principles and practices to maintain a safe and hygienic healthcare environment.

  Electronic Health Records (EHR):

• Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems for accurate and efficient charting and documentation.

Skills:

Clinical Skills:

• Competence in performing clinical procedures, such as wound care, injections, and specimen collection.

  Communication Skills:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals.

  Collaboration:

• Ability to collaborate within a healthcare team, including effective communication with physicians, nurses, and support staff.

  Patient Education:

• Skill in providing patient education, explaining medical conditions, treatment plans, and preventive care measures.

  Critical Thinking:

• Strong critical thinking skills to assess situations, prioritize care, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced healthcare setting.

Abilities:

Compassion and Empathy:

• Ability to demonstrate compassion and empathy in patient interactions, fostering a supportive and caring environment.

  Adaptability:

• Flexibility and adaptability to handle diverse patient needs, changing priorities, and unexpected situations.

  Time Management:

• Effective time management skills to prioritize tasks and deliver efficient patient care.

  Problem Solving:

• Ability to identify and address problems, collaborating with the healthcare team to find effective solutions.

  Cultural Competency:

• Sensitivity to diverse cultures and backgrounds, ensuring culturally competent and inclusive care.

  Ethical Practice:

• Commitment to ethical nursing practice, upholding patient confidentiality and respecting the rights and dignity of individuals.

  Ability to uphold the National Nursing Code of Ethics.

  Stress Management:

• Ability to manage stress and maintain composure in challenging situations, contributing to a positive and focused work environment.

  Team Leadership:

• Leadership skills to guide and support clinical support staff, fostering a collaborative and effective team environment.

  Continuous Learning:

• Willingness and ability to engage in continuous learning and professional development to stay current in nursing practices.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• Current RN licensure in the State of Alaska.

• Graduation from an accredited practical nursing program.

• Knowledge of State of Alaska Board of Nursing regulations.

• Experience in providing direct clinical support and specialty nursing services.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Ability to lead and guide clinical support staff.