Trach/ Wound Care Nurse

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for trach c hang es , trach t i e changes, and wound care, per physician's orders and CHC policy. Assesses problems and a nti c ip a t es potential problems and reacts a ppropri a t e l y . U nd e r s tand s and follows instructions from various practitioners, in c ludin g physicians, nurse m a na ge r s, a nd charge nur s es . Abides by the IL Nurse Practice Act and IDPH rules and regulations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Administers and charts treatments and medications
• Maintains the treatment cart in a clean a nd o rd e rl y mann e r
• Makes frequent rounds to all assigned patients to assess patients and a nticipat e problems
• Directs team assistants as needed
• Documents the stage, measurements ( l e n g th , width, and depth), and condition (color, odor, drainage, ) of all breakdowns in th e decubitus care book and medical record.
• Notifies the physician of all new-onset breakdowns by completing an Encounter
• Monitors the healing process of all breakdowns; notifies nursing management a nd physician, using the Encounter Form, of
• Completes trach tube changes per trach change schedule and CHC procedures and documents same in the medical r eco rd , o n the MAR, a nd check to chart .
• Documents problems or issues on the interdisciplinary progress
• Maintains an extra trach and a step-down trach (per D. order) at each patient's bedside .
• Participates in quality improvement activities; precepts new employees and provides training for caregivers/guardians as needed
• Sees that all equipment is in wo rkin g order and that supplies are available
• Abides by CHC policies
• Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• IL Registered or Licensed Practical Nurse
• Must be able to lift and carry patients up to 50 pounds
• Good visual and auditory acuity; must be able to wa lk , s t a nd , s to o p, and kneel for e xt e nd e d periods
• Use of both arms in the provision of care; ability to move quickly from place to place
• Good oral and written communication skills

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Us u a lly works in a well-lighted , well-ventilated area
• May come in contact with potentially infectious material