Prevention Nurse

REPORTS TO: Manager of Prevention and Recovery Services
FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt

General Definition and Scope of Job

A Prevention Nurse is responsible for providing nursing support to Prevention Outreach team which includes vaccinations and care to individuals who put themselves at risk for HIV, STI’s and Hepatitis primarily through injection drug use. Emphasis is placed on patient teaching and education. The nurse is expected to provide guidance to the prevention staff. Nurses participate in Street outreach, educational sessions, syringe exchange services, Overdose Education and naloxone distribution.

Core Responsibilities

1. Administer HAV/HBV and other vaccinations as needed.
2. Conduct both comprehensive and basic risk assessments.
3. Provide basic first aid and wound care to clients
4. Practice in a Harm Reduction model of care
5. Provides triage management of outreach patient ;
6. Facilitates follow-up patient care when indicated;
7. Keeps informed of and utilize supportive services and referral channels for the accomplishment of quality care;
8. Work with team to develop strategies for providing prevention, education, and screening to identify populations.
9. Collaboratively work with Prevention team.
10. Ensure current health information and materials are to be made available to the patient and family. This includes participation in the development of patient education material;
11. Serves as a medical resource to prevention team;
12. Serves as patient advocate;
13. Appropriately documents patient’s needs;
14. Demonstrate self-direction and motivation in activities which enhance patient care. Anticipates new problems and is part of the problem solving process;
15. Maintain professional composure and confidence during stressful situations;
16. Consistently utilize good judgment in the resolution of problems, clinical and non-clinical
17. Performs other appropriate job duties as assigned.

Minimum Skills, Experience and Educational Requirements

1. Graduate of an accredited LPN program;
2. Current LPN license or Nursing License, in good standing with the State licensing board;
3. Minimum of one (1) year LPN experience, in area of specialty preferred;
4. Federal-, State- and GHR-required credentials current and on file;
5. Has knowledge of health concerns as a result of injection drug use or high risk sexual activities;
6. Familiarity with harm reduction theories strongly desired. and,
7. Must have reliable transportation

Required Certifications and Licenses

LPN Certificate in good standing or Registered Nurse

Critical Demands of the Job

1. Manage multiple requests and prioritize appropriately.
2. Ability to function in a faced paced setting with a variety of patients and staff.
3. Attention to details and prompt follow up.
4. Includes walking and standing for long periods of time, sitting for short periods of time, hand dexterity, clear hearing and speaking ability. Must be able to lift a maximum of 1/3 of their body weight.
5. Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.

Working Conditions

1. Works in well-lighted environment with comfortable surroundings.
2. Stressful at times due to competing demands, including attention to multiple patients and staff.

Required Availability

May be required to work evenings, and occasional weekends.