Description 12-hour shifts - $10,000 sign on bonus I. JOB SUMMARY: The Direct Care Nurse provides specialized nursing care to individuals with medical and physical disabilities in an Intermediate. This includes performing nursing duties under a person-centered care model, ensuring high-quality care that supports each individual’s health plan. The nurse will be expected to work in a collaborative environment with healthcare professionals, caregivers, and families, providing consistent care, support, and advocacy for the individuals in the facility. II. RESPONSIBILITIES A. Assessment: • Conduct comprehensive, daily physical and health assessments of assigned individuals to monitor their medical conditions, growth, and development. • Identify and respond to any changes in the health status of the individual in a timely manner. B. Monitoring: • Continuously monitor individuals' health conditions, including vital signs, medication effectiveness, and physical status throughout shifts. • Regularly review care plans, ensuring that any changes in conditions or needs are addressed. C. Administration of Medications and Treatments: • Administer prescribed medications, tube feedings, and treatments in accordance with medical orders and care protocols. • Ensure proper documentation and tracking of medication administration and treatment outcomes. D. Documentation: • Document all nursing interventions, assessments, and any changes in condition accurately and promptly in the electronic health record (EHR). • Ensure that all documentation meets facility standards and supports quality care delivery. E. Procedures: • Provide and assist with medical procedures as needed, including wound care, and tracheostomy care, based on the training and needs of the individual. • Ensure that all procedures are conducted safely and in alignment with the facility’s protocols. F. Emergency Response: • Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies, including medical crises or accidents, by providing immediate care and implementing emergency protocols as necessary. • Maintain readiness to provide care in urgent situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of the individual. G. Inventory Management: • Maintain an inventory of nursing supplies and medications, ensuring timely ordering, restocking, and tracking of medical equipment. • Monitor expiration dates for medications and supplies, ensuring proper handling and disposal according to facility policies. H. Policy Adherence: • Adhere to all facility policies, safety protocols, and regulatory guidelines, including those for infection control, emergency procedures, and patient confidentiality. • Participate in regular audits and reviews to ensure compliance with all policies. I. Continuing Education: • Participate in ongoing professional development and continuing education, staying current with best practices in pediatric nursing care, especially for individuals with complex medical needs. • Attend mandatory in-services, workshops, and additional training as required by the facility. J. Supervision and Leadership: • Act as Charge Nurse as assigned, providing leadership and guidance to other nursing staff. • Provide preceptorship for new nursing staff, supporting their integration into the team. K. Care Plan Development and Participation: • Collaborate with the interdisciplinary healthcare team to develop, review, and update individualized care plans (ISP) to meet the evolving needs of each individual. • Ensure care delivery is consistent with the individualized plans and that all goals are met. L. Collaboration with Healthcare Team: • Work closely with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care and support for individuals. • Communicate any concerns or changes in an individual’s condition to the appropriate team members and family members. M. Advocacy and Support: • Advocate for the rights and well-being of each individual, ensuring their dignity, comfort, and quality of life are maintained. • Provide emotional support to both individuals and their families, fostering positive relationships. N. Documentation and Reporting: • Document all activities related to nursing care and medical treatments in a timely and accurate manner. • Ensure proper communication of individual health statuses, treatment outcomes, and progress to families, staff, and the healthcare team Requirements Conduct: • Complies with attendance and punctuality policies. • Works collaboratively with all team members and is respectful toward families, staff, and visitors. • Follows instructions with a positive attitude and a willingness to support others. • Acts as an ambassador for the facility, ensuring a professional demeanor in all interactions. • Wear appropriate job attire and ID badge as required. Qualifications: Education: • Must be a graduate of an accredited nursing school. • Must hold a valid, active Virginia LPN or RN license Experience: • Preferably one year of experience in pediatric or medical/surgical nursing. • Experience in care for individuals with complex medical conditions, including those requiring specialized equipment (e.g., tracheostomies), is highly desirable. Certifications: • Current CPR certification. • Additional training and certifications may be required, particularly for specialized care needs (e.g., tracheostomy). Skills and Abilities: • Ability to make critical nursing decisions in emergency situations. • Knowledge and skill in administering medical treatments and specialized nursing techniques. • Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills. • Ability to collaborate effectively with families, team members, and external healthcare providers. Physical Requirements: • Ability to lift up to 35 pounds and assist with patient mobility. • Ability to stand, sit, and walk for extended periods as needed. • Strong vision and hearing abilities to monitor patient health and ensure accurate assessments. • Must always wear company-issued ID. Additional Requirements: • Flexibility in work hours: Must be willing to work a variety of shifts as required by the facility, including weekends, holidays, and emergencies. • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, contributing to a collaborative, person-centered care environment. Core Values: • Kind: Providing compassionate care with patience and understanding. • Compassionate: Responding to the needs of individuals with empathy and genuine concern. • Person-Centered: Tailoring care to the unique needs and preferences of each individual. • Engaging: Actively participating in activities that enhance the quality of life of individuals. • Collaborative: Working together with team members, families, and healthcare providers for the benefit of each individual. • Fun: Creating an enjoyable, positive environment for both individuals and team members.