JOB SUMMARY
The Outpatient Palliative Care Nurse (OPPCN) is a professional who has specialized training and expertise in navigating the health care system and resources for high risk individuals in the community. Services provided include but are not limited to providing education and information to the patient and his/her caregivers/family, working with the health care team and patients physician to develop a plan of care. The OPPCN works with the clinical team to identify individuals who have chronic or life limiting illnesses and/or who are at high risk for readmission to the ED or inpatient hospital. The OPPCN actively manages the patient's care in coordination with the patient's physician(s) and care team using established clinical pathways as well as educate and empower the patient to take an active role in managing the day-to-day challenges of the patient's individual disease process(es) in order to increase health & well-being and to reduce the need for hospitalization. Nursing assessment, navigation and care may be provided during in person visits in an outpatient setting including but not limited to assisted living facilities, long term care facilities, home visits, emergency department, doctors offices and telephone consultation.
REQUIREMENTS
- Required Associate's Degree 1352
- Preferred Bachelor's Degree 1352
- 2-4 years Minimum of 3 years experience working in an inpatient or outpatient health care setting required. Required
- 2-4 years Experience working as an RN in a palliative/hospice care inpatient or outpatient setting preferred. Preferred
- CPR - AHA Healthcare Provider
- CHPN - Certified Hospice Palliative Nurse
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
Reliable transportation. 10 contact hours of continuing education per year. End of Life Nursing Education Consortium Training (ELNEC) preferred. Advanced Nursing certification a plus. Must have a broad clinical knowledge and expertise in the management of symptom and emotional distress in the chronically ill. Excellent organizational, communication and data entry skills. Able to communicate openly and empathetically with patients, families, and providers. Able to communicate effectively with diverse audiences including professional staff, community members, and other services organization. Detail oriented. Knowledge of adult learning competencies and patient teaching skills. Self management skills reflecting self-motivation, initiative and fiscal responsibility. Demonstrates flexibility in responding to changing system needs and stays current with the changing culture in healthcare. Able to assess, plan, intervene, and evaluate the physical, emotional, spiritual, and educational needs of patients and their family/support system. Able to anticipate patient needs and take appropriate course of action, using approved guidelines, protocols, and pathways. Excellent problem solving skills.
