Under direction, to perform and demonstrate a high degree of professional competence in the field of Neuroscience Nursing and Stroke Management. In collaboration with patient, family, nursing, case facilitator, physicians and other mult-disciplinary members, works to evaluate appropriateness of care and facilitate care changes necessary. Additionally, assists with teaching and serves as a resource and consultant for all members of the health care team.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES(*Essential Functions)

1. Develops protocols and best practice guidelines for the treatment of Stroke patients.


2. Reviews all stroke patient admissions for protocol adherence.


3. Records and implements protocol to assure optimal care of the Stroke patient across the continuum of care.


4. Works closely with the Medical Directors of the Emergency Department, Neurology Services and Critical Care to assure optimal continuity of care.


5. Works in a collegial manner with the Stroke Medical Director to assure optimal continuity of care from pre-hospital, hospital, and through discharge.


6. Works directly with the EMS on reviewing protocols, especially the identification of Brain Alert patients in the pre-hospital setting.


7. Acts as a resource and proves best practice and guidelines according to the American Stroke Association, National Stroke Association, and regulatory guidelines.


8. Coordinates meetings, and attends and participates in Stroke meetings, may lead meetings in the absence of the Medical Director.


9. Responsible for the application and submission for Stroke Accreditation, in collaboration with Neuroscience Director.


10. Participates in identifying, planning, implementing and evaluating educational community, staff, physicians, and outreach programs.


11. Develops and coordinates stroke projects, including outreach and clinical programs to meet patients, program and community needs.


12. Maintains a presence in the community, assists, and supports community outreach programs emphasizing Stroke prevention.


13. Works closely with physicians, nurses and clinical resource management staff to ensure clinical appropriateness of service and level of care provided.


14. Assures compliance with all Joint Commission, Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program, State Board of Health, CMS and other applicable regulatory agency guidelines.


15. Collaborates with the Stroke Database Coordinator related to the validity of data abstractions for Get With The Guidelines and regulatory entities.


16. Reports data.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS(Minimum Requirements)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Additional certification in specialty area is desired.
• Demonstrates knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the infant, child, adolescent, young adult, middle adult, and geriatric patient served within the service line.
• Ability to assess and interpret data about the patients status in order to identify each patient's age specific needs, and to provide the care needed by the infant, child, adolescent, young adult, middle adult, and geriatric patient groups serviced.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing required.
• Current licensure as a Registered Nurse in the State of Indiana.

EDUCATION

• Bachelors Nursing Required
• Three (3) years (recent) clinical proficiency in Neuroscience nursing or 9-11 years relevant work experience or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
• 3 Healthcare/Medical - Neuro Science Nurse Required
• Licensed Registered Nurse

STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR
Meets the Standards of Behavior as outlined in Personnel Policy and Procedure #1, Employee Relations Code.

CONFIDENTIALITY/HIPAA/CORPORATE COMPLIANCE
Demonstrates knowledge of procedures for protecting and maintaining security, confidentiality and integrity of employee, patient, family, organizational and other medical information. Understands and supports the commitment of Methodist Hospitals in adhering to federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations governing ethical business practices for healthcare providers.

DISCLAIMER - The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. The statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.