Under general supervision provides nursing care, client education and counseling and coordination of services for clients and their families. Serves as a medical resource for investigations. Screens clients for eligibility for healthcare services and programs.
This class is intended for use in a non-institutional setting. Employees in this class work in outpatient settings such as county health departments, clinics, schools, homes and other community settings. Some employees may also work in office settings. Employees in this class may supervise licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants or other healthcare staff.
Assesses health of clients and develops and revises care plans with clients, families and healthcare providers. Implements care plans to include appropriate testing, interventions, education and counseling based on identified needs. Performs medical evaluation and testing per direct provider orders or written standing orders and applicable protocols and procedures. Uses appropriate medical judgement and consults with physicians and other medical providers when indicated. Administers medication and/or treatments according to provider or standing medical orders. Initiates/follows up on referrals when indicated. Promotes wellness through activities directed toward prevention and reduction of risk factors, early detection of disease and control and management of identified health problems. Provides newborn postpartum home visits to infants and mothers. Maintains client records and prepares reports. Promotes and supports the development of programs, policies and services that provide interventions that improve the health status of populations. Consults with members of the healthcare team. Participates in quality control improvement activities such as record reviews, program evaluations and team meetings. Supervises and instructs paraprofessional nursing personnel in the care of clients. Plans programs, develops policies and develops standards and procedures in relation to nursing in a specialized area. Conducts pre-admission screening for clients seeking Medicaid sponsored nursing home placement and for clients seeking admission to various Medicaid waivers and programs. Provides medical advice and complex analysis of medical records, data, areas of inquiry, medical issues, facility operations and clinical practice related to potential Medicaid provider fraud and patient abuse and neglect throughout all phases of an investigation. Assists in witness interviews regarding medical aspects of investigations. Provides clinical advice and facilitates the identification, recruiting and preparation of medical/healthcare expert witnesses. Testifies in legal proceedings and provides critical medical explanations.
Knowledge of the techniques and best practices of the nursing profession. Knowledge of medical and nursing terminology. Ability to evaluate a client’s medical status and needs and use knowledge and judgement to respond appropriately, including when to notify or consult the supervising medical provider. Ability to apply and adhere to standing orders, policies and standard operating procedures. Ability to plan, implement and evaluate client medical care plans. Ability to establish and maintain the confidence and cooperation of clients. Knowledge of privacy protections for clients. Ability to interact with clients in a culturally competent, professional manner. Ability to prepare educational and training materials for nursing care programs. Ability to provide individual health coaching and counseling. Knowledge of community resources. Knowledge of administrative methods and procedures. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Knowledge of medical coding and billing procedures at a level necessary for the specific position. Ability to appropriately respond to emergency situations. Ability to function as a team member. Ability to instruct, supervise and direct the work of paraprofessional staff.
Licensure as a registered nurse by the State Board of Nursing for South Carolina. Some positions require certification in Basic Life Support. Some positions may require possession of a valid driver’s license.
Graduation from an accredited school of nursing.