JOB SUMMARY

The Home Health Nurse (RN) is a licensed professional responsible for client care to include direct nursing care, coordination of care, and coordination of services in the home for clients of all ages, unless otherwise specified, in order to assist the client in achieving a maximum level of wellness and independence. This position provides supervision and direction for LPNs and Home Health Aides in the performance of their duties to achieve the same overall purpose. The role may include other responsibilities and duties as assigned based upon the home care agency’s needs or requirements.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Coordinate patient care assignments and referrals, assure that patient needs are continually assessed and met, and assure that care plans are individualized and continually updated for our assigned clients. If not available during operating hours, the PCM, Director or another clinical manager will assume above duties.
2. Responsible for coordinating client services, case management, providing assigned clients with direct skilled care, and teaching patient care skills to the client and/or care giver. Initiates preventative and rehabilitative nursing procedures individualized to the client and according to age specific needs. All duties will be performed within the scope of the Nurse Practice Act and in accordance with productivity standards.
3. Develops and revises a plan of care based on the initial assessment, continual reassessment of client/family needs, client history, nursing diagnosis, physician orders, expected outcomes, and client goals to include discharge plans when appropriate. Initiates appropriate utilization of agency and community resources, is a client/family advocate and follows visit utilization guidelines and protocols. Formulates and implements appropriate teaching plans, communicates significant clinical findings and changes in status to the physician and other involved personnel, including clients in a timely manner.
4. Documents all skilled and medically necessary care thoroughly, timely and accurately in accordance with Home Care policy. Plans of care, the documentation and care provided, must comply with Medicare, State, Federal, insurance and payer requirements as well as local agency policy. Maintains client and organizational confidentiality at all times. Actively participates in the Quality Management (Quality Improvement) program and completes all required in-service programs to ensure standards are met and skills are kept current.
5. Conducts Home Health Aide and LPN supervisory visits in accordance with agency policy. Prepares and updates Home Health Aide’s written instructions and documents findings. As supervisor, ensures that clients receive appropriate care and that all delegated duties and activities are within the scope of the Nurse Practice Act.
6. Participates in staff meetings, case conferences, business development meetings and customer service programs. Works on-call schedule as required to ensure the agency meets its goals and obligations to the community.
7. Delivers a high level of customer service to all internal and external customers. Demonstrates leadership competencies: customer centered, results oriented and people focused.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENT

Use of computers, telephone, pager, fax, copy machine, audio-visual equipment, shredder, medical supplies and materials, automobiles, clinical based equipment and medical equipment. Is responsible for providing care to clients of all ages, unless otherwise specified.

Must be able to speak, read and write in English; see, hear, use fine motor skills, eye-hand coordination, and tactile abilities; follow multiple verbal and written instructions.  Should possess problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze simple data.  Must be able to make rational decisions based on factual information.

The work requires the ability to do heavy lifting exerting up to 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25-50 pounds of force constantly to move objects.  Walking, standing, sitting, reaching, stooping, squatting, and kneeling are physical requirements that will be frequent to constant throughout a workday. A multidisciplinary approach which includes an individualized care plan which is the driving force for addressing the clients’ physical, social, and psychosocial needs.

The work has an inherent potential for contact with blood, body fluids or tissues.   Appropriate protective measures are required for every employee engaged in these tasks.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Education/Experience: Graduate of an approved school of nursing. At least one (1) year of medical-surgical nursing experience in either an acute care or home health setting, within the past four (4) years is preferred but not required. At least one year of home health experience preferred.
• Technical Skills: Demonstrates knowledge, ability and skills required to perform a wide variety of nursing functions. Demonstrates that he or she can quickly and accurately assess client status and take appropriate action as necessary. Effective verbal and written communication skills. Understands and has a working knowledge of the Windows environment. Demonstrates an ability to access and use information in meaningful ways through the use of email and word processor.
• Other qualifications/certificate/license: Current RN license to practice in the State of Kansas. Maintain current CPR certification. Access to reliable transportation to ensure their ability to provide service to all clients and to all areas serviced by the agency. Valid State Drivers License. Proof of automobile insurance that meets at last the minimum state mandated insurance requirements.
• Behavioral Competencies: Demonstrates an ability to function successfully in a team environment. Exhibits courteous, compassionate and respectful treatment of internal and external customers. Displays a positive attitude and flexibility in changing situations.
• Demonstrates an ability to problem solve and suggest solutions. Ability to function with minimal supervision.

DECISION MAKING LATITUDE

The position has the latitude to make decisions based on sound clinical judgment in accordance with their professional scope of practice, as appropriate for the position, and in accordance with actions defined in the Home Care Policy Manual. The incumbent confers with the assigned supervisor or home care director/administrator for any unusual situations or problems.