DEPARTMENTAL POLICY POLICY: Registered Nurse Extended Class A. OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE JOB: Position Identification Job Title: Registered Nurse Extended Class- Family Health Team Employee Group: ONA Date Prepared: Department: Dryden Area Family Health Team Date Revised: Title Of Immediate Supervisor: Director – Dryden Area Family Health Team July 2012 The Registered Nurse Extended Class (RN-EC or NP) is a member of the Dryden Area Family Health Team (DAFHT) who provides a high level of comprehensive care to meet the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of the individual, under the direction and supervision of the DAFHT Director. The role of the RN (EC) in the family practice partners with all members of the health care team to provide care to entire a patient population. The RNEC follows the patient through all stages of growth and development, through degrees of wellness and illness, from one setting to another, collaborating with other nurses, physicians, registered dietitians and expert providers in various settings. The RN (EC) provides holistic assessments and creates linkages with appropriate community resources. The RN (EC) focuses on providing assessment, treatment, medication management, screening, healthy lifestyle support, education, chronic disease management with a goal of improving health outcomes and facilitating access to services. The RN (EC) participates in a team-oriented approach to patient care within the facility and in the promotion of continuing, individual/family-centred care in the community. Patients of the RN (EC) will have access to comprehensive primary health care with a range of health services that help individuals and families maintain or improve their overall health. Programs and services can include but not limited to: Annual physicals/cancer screening/ pre-op/ medicals Episodic illness care Immunizations Smoking cessation Cognitive screening Works with populations at risk Senior health assessments Prenatal/ well baby INR Lifestyle counselling Specialist referral Muscular/ skeletal concerns Sexual health counselling SADV and follow up Injury prevention and injury follow up ER follow up Pain management Clozaril monitoring Outreach clinics POLICY Page 2 of 12 Long Term Care/ Supportive Housing Care Form completion (WSIB, return to work etc.) Monitoring and management of chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, asthma, heart disease, COPD, fibromyalgia and mental health conditions etc. The RN (EC) practice is grounded in the values, knowledge and theories of professional nursing practice. It emphasizes health promotion and the prevention of illness, injury and complications for clients. The RN (EC) works with a diverse client population and act as a resource to clients, other nurses and allied health professionals. They provide the leadership and advocate for their clients. (Nurse Practitioner, Standard of Practice, 2011) B. ORGANIZATIONAL DIMENSIONS OF JOB (e.g. annual operating budget of unit, number of clients served, number and payroll of direct reports, number indirectly supervised, other measurable components). (a) Please complete following organization chart indicating title of: supervisor, peer(s) and subordinate(s) as applicable Senior VP Patient Care Services & Chief Executive Nursing Officer Director – Dryden Area Family Health Team FHT Nursing Team Registered Nurse Extended Class Registered Nurse Registered Practical Nurse C. Diabetes Education Staff Registered Nurse Registered Dietitian Program Assistant (s) Allied Health Providers Registered Dietitian Pharmacist Mental Health Roles and Responsibilities Accountability The RN (EC) is to practice within the scope and according to the standards of practice as outlined in the RN (EC) scope of practice provided by the College – www.cno.org The RN (EC) functions within the policies and procedures of the Dryden Regional Health Centre- Dryden Area Family Health Team. As a primary care provider, the RN (EC) is accountable to clients by maintaining confidentiality and acting in an ethical and professional manner, in accordance with the professional code of ethics and in accordance with the policies of the Dryden Area Family Health Team; The RN (EC) is responsible to keep current in their practice to maintain competence in areas of health assessments, treatments, diagnosis and therapeutics. This includes the use of advanced nursing knowledge, decision making and skills. The RN (EC) is accountable as a member of the DAFHT, to obtain appropriate physician consultation according to the College of Nurses of Ontario Expectations for Consultation with Physicians by RN (EC). The RN (EC) considers the following criteria in the clinical decision making: (Standards of Practice, Nurse Practitioner 2011) o The best available evidence to guide client care decisions o Whether the interventions is clinically indicated o Contraindications and precautions o Risks and benefits o Specific client needs and circumstances Health Assessment POLICY Page 3 of 12 Each interaction with a patient offers an opportunity to complete a comprehensive assessment of the presenting problem as well as a complete assessment of health status, risks and opportunities that can affect long-term health. This may be completed during one visit or over a series of visits depending on the circumstances and should be updated in the patient’s record. The Registered Nurse Extended Class: Obtains a history of the presenting health issue (s) Performs a comprehensive and focused health assessment that includes health history and complete physical evaluation; considers the patient’s psychosocial, emotional, ethnic, cultural and spiritual dimensions of health, including his/her understanding of their health/illness experience and how their daily life is affected. Initiates and manages the care of clients with diseases or disorders within the RN (EC) scope of practice and / or monitors the ongoing therapy of clients with chronic illnesses by providing effective pharmacological, complementary or counseling interventions. Uses and adapts assessment tools and techniques based on the patient’s unique needs. Assesses the presence of or the need for advance care directives or “do not resuscitate” documents. Advocates for the client as appropriate. Completes and documents a thorough medication assessment, including over the counter medications, alternative medications, intolerances and allergies. Prescribes medication included in the Schedules of the Regulations to treat diseases or disorders within the RN (EC) scope of practice. Orders and performs tests within scope of practice Orders and performs procedures and treatments within scope of practice Obtains consent when ordering or performing client care, tests and interventions Documents all aspects of care in the DAFHT EMR including: assessments, tests ordered or performed and the review of results, diagnoses, treatments ordered or administered, procedures or interventions ordered or performed, consent (s), communication with client, consultation with others, referrals made to and received from others Assesses access to medications and treatment by determining health coverage. Synthesizes health assessment information and uses critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills to identify health concerns and potential screening issues. Applies recognized clinical practice guidelines and best practices to screening, monitoring, and assessment of patient’s physical and emotional well-being. Incorporates objective findings such as laboratory and diagnostic findings, specialist reports and past history in a comprehensive assessment. Change dressings, remove sutures and staples, remove catheters and change colostomy appliances when required. Health-care management and therapeutic interventions The registered nurse extended class provides care and management for patients with a wide range of health issues. As an integral member of the health team, RN (EC) provides care for complex patients and those that require extra time and attention to develop a plan of care. The registered nurse extended class: Initiates and/or contributes to the development of a health plan in collaboration with the patient and other members of the interdisciplinary team. Encourages maximum independence and accountability for self-care. Synthesizes information from individual clients to identify broader implications within the family. Assesses and manages care of families in conjunction with community support agencies when appropriate. Recognizes the need for and initiates effective interventions and treatments. Discusses treatment options with patients and involves them in decision-making and self-management. Assists and supports patients with implementation of the health plan including interventions and diagnostic testing. This may involve setting up supports such as medication delivery/adherence programs POLICY Page 4 of 12 for medications, assisting with transportation etc. This can be supported with the FHT Community Service Guide. Determines the need for and initiates consultations with other services and health-care providers in a timely and supportive manner. Monitors, evaluates and adjusts the health plan based on effectiveness of interventions and/or changes in condition or environment, in collaboration with the patient and team members. Provides telephone care, follow-up and consultation. Documents this care in patient record. Informs and educates patients regarding the meaning and implications of test results and interventions. Counsels patients on drug therapies, side-effects and interactions. Counsels and guides patients on symptom management, health maintenance and rehabilitation strategies, as well as risk factors and lifestyle changes. Co-ordinates services and care with the patient and health care team to ensure continuity and follow-up. As requested, initiates or participates in patient care case conferences to ensure co-ordinated, comprehensive and holistic services. Provides care in collaboration with family physician and allied health care providers for patients in supportive housing, long term care, assisted living or independent homes that include home visits as required. Provides care utilizing outreach clinics to target populations i.e. supportive housing, long term care, First Nation communities etc. Provides home visits to patients that would benefit from the service and as set out by the agency. Documents accurate and pertinent patient information in a timely manner, including maintaining a comprehensive health summary or patient profile. Communicates with secondary and tertiary providers to ensure the continuity of care when appropriate. Networks with community agencies and groups. Follows the DRHC infection control policy. Health education The registered nurse extended class provides education that is responsive to the needs of the patient to optimize health, enhance understanding of health status, and engage the patient in managing their own health while anticipating challenges and barriers. The registered nurse extended class: Assesses health education requirements and readiness of the patient as a component of an overall health assessment. Assesses current knowledge, education and literacy levels, social supports, learning preferences and other factors that may affect the education approach and plan. Utilizes teaching materials and tools, with consideration for cultural, language, physical, intellectual, and environmental factors. Employs education strategies and motivational interviewing skills to support behaviour changes to enhance health (e.g., smoking cessation, physical activity, and healthy eating). Provides education related to healthy living, prevention of injury, illness and communicable diseases, care and treatment, individual and family adjustments, and support systems as appropriate to the patient situation. Engages patients in education regarding chronic illnesses such as diabetes, lung disease hypertension, cardiac disease and self-management. Utilizes all health-care encounters as an opportunity to identify educational needs and provide health education or referral to FHT allied health provider as follow up (e.g., immunizations, screening, health lifestyle, smoking) Uses a variety of communication strategies, e.g., written, verbal, non-verbal, visual, Internet, and group education. Creates or advocates for an environment that facilitates patients’ learning and maximizes their participation and control in meeting their health-care goals. POLICY Page 5 of 12 Health promotion and prevention of illness, injury and complications Screening and monitoring is completed to ensure early identification of health issues and complications associated with chronic or communicable diseases. The RN (EC) can play a key role in the prevention of illness and promotion of health by ensuring screening mechanisms are in place and patient-management of health is encourage The registered nurse extended class: Plans to prevent the onset of health issues and minimize complications arising from disease. With the Family Health Team, assesses the community for strengths and opportunities to enhance health and monitors trends that may have an impact on health. Conducts risk assessments in collaboration with the patient and other service providers and develops appropriate health plans to promote health and prevent illness and complications. Assesses the immunization status of all patients and ensures immunizations are current. Administers medications topically, through natural body orifices, through tubes, by subcutaneous and intramuscular injection; as specified by College of Nurses of Ontario guidelines; records accordingly in chart. Participates in a strategy to recall patients for monitoring and screening (e.g., planned recall for diabetes, cervical screening, hypertension) Builds on patient and community resources in planning health promotion and illness prevention strategies. Collaborates with patients, interdisciplinary teams and communities to develop, implement and evaluate health promotion and illness prevention programs. Provides screening for health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, cancer screening, cardiovascular health, mental health, cognitive function and osteoporosis. Provides counseling on health promotion and illness prevention strategies. Assists and supports the patient in life transitions, including palliation and death. Refers patients to the Community Service Guide to ensure the appropriate connections to other services and programs are established that would enable the patient to achieve their health goals. Monitors patient progress with respect to risk reduction and self-management plans. Participates in the maintenance of an accurate comprehensive health record. Documents according to standards for completing electronic medical records. Professional role and responsibility The registered nurse extended class works in an ever-changing environment and, as such, invests considerable time in maintaining their professional expertise and maintaining a strong evidence-based approach. The RN (EC) acquires and maintains a comprehensive understanding of health and social services as well as referral processes, including diagnostic services, specialists, hospital care, rehabilitation and support programs, educational programs, and community-based health agencies. They are also involved in many initiatives aimed at improving the healthcare practice, identifying risk and safety issues and facilitating resolution. They are strong and visible role models for their profession. The registered nurse extended class: Recognizes personal attitudes, beliefs, feelings and values about health in their interactions with patients and their families. Maintains and applies evidence-based knowledge to the nursing process. Leads or participates in research initiatives. Leads or participates in conference presentations. Demonstrates the ability to reflect on personal and team practice through a systematic evaluation of professional competencies, acceptability, quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of practice. POLICY Page 6 of 12 Participates in the development, implementation, and maintenance of medical directives, and policies and procedures that guide practice. Uses research findings and evidence to guide the delivery of services. Seeks professional development opportunities consistent with current primary care practice, new and emerging issues, changing needs of patient populations, and research. Advances primary care nursing through participation in professional development and practice development activities, mentoring students, orientating staff and participating in research and quality assurance initiatives. Provides supervision, mentorship, orientation, observational and teaching opportunities to students ensuring that program goals and objectives are met. Demonstrates leadership in areas such as chronic disease management, reproductive health, shared care models, safety and health. Participates in relevant meetings and committees. Establishes and maintains effective professional relationships and partnerships with other organizations to benefit system integration, efficient service utilization, effective collaboration and optimal patient care Identifies and collects performance and quality improvement data and initiates or participates in a process to address identified issues. Completes documentation, accurate statistical data, and reports. Participates or leads quality improvement programs or initiatives in the practice. Maintains a membership with professional organizations and interest groups. Knowledge: Knowledge of primary health care and the social determinants of health Knowledge of concepts of health promotion, disease prevention, behaviour change counselling, program planning, individual and group counselling Knowledge and awareness related to cultural competence Nursing care knowledge related to primary care/community health/chronic disease management Knowledge of the principles of the Stanford model of self-management Understanding of the principles of collaboration In-depth knowledge of health assessment and interventions in the family practice context Knowledge of acts or legislation that govern practice: o Personal Health Information Protection Act o Protection for Persons in Care Act o Mental health act o Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) o Principles of routine practices (universal precautions) o Child protection act General Functions within human resources and guidelines of DRHC policy and procedure. Has good knowledge of DAFHT/clinic Fire, Disaster/Evacuation plan and WHMIS. Participates in yearly education. Promotes DAFHT mission statement within the organization and works to achieve goals and objectives as specified in the organization’s strategic plan. Preserves confidentiality of all clients with the DAFHT. Maintains competence in all clinical skills pertaining to his/her area of work. Maintains ongoing awareness of change in technology, treatment of illness and nursing practices. Utilizes the nursing process to assess, plan, implement and evaluate patient care, in consultation with the physician/ nurse practitioner, on an ongoing basis. Participates as needed in formulation of new policies and procedures, based on evidence-based practice and best practice guidelines. POLICY Page 7 of 12 Prepare reports and displays and make recommendations related to chronic disease management/ prevention/ primary care as required by DAFHT program and Director. This includes collaborating with staff in the development of promotional materials and activities to ensure that the information is in a form that is appropriate to the intended audience. Statistical reports are prepared monthly or as requested by the MOHLTC or as required by the DRHC / FHT When required, prepares room for clients according to the needs of the physician/ nurse practitioner when required. Ensure trays and instruments for minor surgical procedures are set up and assist when required. Ensure room is clean when procedure is complete. Has access to a vehicle for outreach activities. Examples include but not limited to outreach education, outreach primary care clinics, home visits etc. Can work flexible hours are deemed necessary by the patient population needs and / or organization Other duties that are deemed appropriate and assigned by the Director from time to time. b. Human Resources Participates in the orientation process. Provides mentorship, additional skills training for co-workers where requested. Provides supervision of volunteers as required. Provides supervision of, and/or mentorship of nursing student (s) as assigned. Participates in the Performance Development Process with Director every year or as required. Maintains required skills and educational components required specific to area of work. Encourages co-operation between all staff in the work environment. Promotes a safe and healthy working environment. Advocates for a quality practice setting. Has knowledge of functioning of other departments within the organization, to plan effective utilization of staff resources in the inter-disciplinary process. Participates in recruitment/retention initiatives. Demonstrates behaviours consistent with Dryden Regional Health Centre’s Code of Conduct Demonstrates DRHC Core Values; accountability, integrity, humility, compassion and respect c. Community Partners & Resources Participates as a community stakeholder in client centered programs as required. Is familiar with programs working closely with the organization; IE: DAFHT, CCAC, DRMH&A Services, Crisis Response. Has knowledge of, and collaborates with other community organizations and services to improve client care or provide continuing care Co-operates with other agencies in education regarding services and care available in the community. d. Budget Assists in planning capital equipment expenditures for the DAFHT for each fiscal year. Responsible to practice appropriate equipment and supply utilization. With the Director, program targets are set each year in accordance with the MOHLTC fiscal year. e. Equipment Provides input into plans for purchase of all equipment for the DAFHT. Ensures adequate supplies and equipment are available for daily patient care, and emergency situations. Ensures he/she is appropriately educated in use of all equipment prior to using. Cares appropriately for all equipment in use on unit. Assists with or takes responsibly in updating of policy and/or procedure regarding use and care of equipment on the unit. f. Health and Safety Consistently works in a safe manner POLICY Follows safe work practices Reports any unsafe conditions Maintains a safe working environment Page 8 of 12 Patient Safety Anticipate changes in the patient’s condition and the likely need for support or medical assistance Adhere to accepted standards of care Adopt an attitude of mindfulness and hazard awareness Adhere to protocols and guidelines related to patient care Recognize, respond and report adverse events Communicate effectively for patient safety D. JOB COMPONENTS 1. a) Communications/Interpersonal Dimensions: Indicate the frequency as daily (D), weekly (W), monthly (M), quarterly (Q) and annually (A). How Often Within Organization Title of Person D RD x Support staff Director – Dryden Area Family Health Team Inpatient- Discharge Planner Purpose Oral Discuss client care plans x X Scheduling/day to day management x x Program direction x x X As needed client referrals/care x x X As needed discuss client referral x x F/U client care X X W M Registered Nurse (s)Ambulatory Patricia Region Senior Servicessupportive/ senior housing Keewatin Patricia School Board Outside Organization Communication Q X x Community Outreach X Pharmacists X A Organize/implement group education sessions On site education/ screening- as approved by Director F/U clients’ pharmaceutical needs and onsite clinics x x b) Nature of Supervision Received: This position will receive direction from the DAFHT Director. Items under discussion may be patient care issues, patient/family complaints and/or concerns, staffing issues, policy and procedure formulation, continuing education and teams/committees. Written POLICY Page 9 of 12 On-going communication with Physicians, Registered Nurses, Registered Dietitian, Mental Health Therapist, Diabetes Program, Registered Practical Nurses and other Registered Nurses Extended Class is required for advice, consultation and direction. On-going communication with all DAFHT members is also essential in order to ensure information is shared appropriately. c) Supervisory Responsibilities The RN (EC) will participate in preceptorship programs for nursing students. He/she may also assist in supervision of volunteers and Co-Op students working with the DAFHT. 2. Initiative: List a few major examples of proactive actions/decisions expected/required of this job where the incumbent is expected to: (a) Act on own (i.e. incumbent can commit and decide without further authorization). Uses knowledge base and critical thinking skills in everyday activities. Initiates CQI processes. Plan, implement and evaluate in collaboration with other agencies and services. Advocate on behalf of clients and families. Supervision of day to day management of program/ services (b) Act and report (i.e. has the authority to decide but reports significant commitments to supervisor). Meets with Director on regular basis to discuss program issues/ direction – follows through with suggestions with assistance of team. (c) Act on consultation (i.e. generally there is prior discussion with immediate supervisor before any significant action is taken or commitments are made). Any program initiative/projects/budget requests which require hospital approval. Changes in patient status. Patient/family complaints. Issues/problems involving other departments. Incident reports –unusual occurrence, and staff incidents. Issues involving physicians, other care givers. (d) State any financial responsibilities (and amounts) that your job involves (eg. Petty cash, budgets) Awareness of unit/facility operating budget, appropriate utilization of equipment, supplies, staff and other resources. 3. Challenges: List a few major examples of complex or challenging issues or situations expected of this job where: (a) Independent action is encouraged. Delegates tasks as required and encourages independent, progressive thought and action on the part of all caregivers. Practice within scope as defined by CNO. Effective and efficient time management to ensure patient care activities are completed and documented. Maintain education as required by CNO. Continuing competence with complex skills. Awareness of best practice guidelines and changing technology in an environment of constant change. Working and coping with ethical issues related to patient care. (b) Action requires approval and/or consultation with supervisor or others. Initiation and implementation of Protocols and Care plans to address care needs of specific patient groups. Planning of care for a client with a complex medical and/or surgical problem, involving multiple caregivers and resources. POLICY Page 10 of 12 Physician issues 4. Adaptability: (a) Identify a few major areas of your job that are relatively structured. Review of patient careplans, medication profiles. Patient teaching pertinent to specific situations Program mandate Role of department within the organization (b) List a few major examples that require this job to apply professional knowledge (i.e. skills) easily from one issue/situation to another, in order to quickly adjust to new or different situations/conditions. Must have knowledge of multiple patient care areas, have ability to adapt thinking from one area to another. Recognise that some knowledge and skills may or may not be applicable to all areas. Be familiar with skills and expertise of all staff; utilise all for maximum efficiency and competence of patient care. Nursing practice issues - use of Standards of Nursing Practice. Critical thinking skills. Leadership skills 5. Teamwork: Plays a major role on the health care team. Is required to work professionally and effectively with employees from all levels of the organization. Is required to work with other professionals and representatives of other groups and organizations in the community. 6. Guidelines: What procedures/guidelines, manuals, policies, objectives, etc. are available to guide the decisionmaking and actions that this job is accountable for? College of Nurses of Ontario Standards of Practice; Canadian Nurse’s Association Code of Ethics; DAFHT Organization's mission, goals; Regulated Health Professionals Act; DAFHT Policy Manuals: Administrative Policy; Nursing Service Manual; Policies & Procedures specific to DAFHT; 7. Impact of Errors: Describe examples of typical major errors Adverse outcome for patient as result of decision(s) made in relation to care. Failure to follow hospital policy and or procedure/protocol in regards to patient care, leading to adverse outcome for patient, family of staff. Absence of, incomplete, inaccurate, inappropriate documentation of patient care Failure to recognise situations where risk management is an issue, leading to potential litigation. Violations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Employment Standards Act, Human Rights Code 8. Leadership Expectations: What leadership role is this job expected to assume in the unit, projects, etc.? Expected to take a leadership role in initiatives within the DAFHT. This position works closely with the all members of the health care team to deal with all patient care issues and provide a positive and progressive environment. Participates in and encourages progressive, evidence based practice by all unit staff. E. WORKING CONDITIONS 9. Physical Effort: Specify how often and for how long each of these physical efforts occurs. Minimal exertion – variety of sitting, walking, standing. Office setting POLICY Page 11 of 12 10. Physical Environment: Please indicate how often and for how long each of the environmental exposures occurs. Office setting 11. Sensory Attention: Specify how often and for how long each use of sensory attention occurs. Intense mental concentration Computer screen – intense visual concentration 12. Mental Stress: Indicate approximately how often and for how long (percentage of time) these disruptions occur. Interruptions, frequent F. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES Minimum requirements to successfully perform the job 13. Formal Education Undergraduate Nursing degree, BScN Valid certificate of Registration in the Extended Class from the College of Nurses of Ontario Maintains certificate in CPR 14. Experience Experience/skill in various areas of primary and acute care Experience/skill with Chronic Disease Management and Health Promotion/Prevention Experience in Chronic Care/Rehab. 15. Professional Affiliation Current registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario WHMIS 16. Other Qualifications Effective organizational and written skills. Ability to work a flexible work week (days, evenings, nights) Ability to adjust to organizational changes Ability to work with multiple priorities Participate in local and out of town travel, use of own vehicle and valid Ontario drivers license Excellent communication and interpersonal skill Proficient computer skills. Able to work well independently and within a team environment Demonstrated superior written and verbal communication skills. Knowledge in research Excellent communication and group facilitation skills, experience and knowledge of chronic disease/health promotion and education, community organizing techniques, social marketing and program design & evaluation in a rural northern setting. 2-4 years’ experience in a community-based organization Ability to lead community development POLICY APPROVAL Approving Authority: Director Family Health Team, Senior V-P Patient Care Services Date of Last Review: 17/06/2010 Date of Approval: 17/06/2010 Date of Next Review: 17/06/2013 POLICY Page 12 of 12