Provides advanced nursing care to include provision of preventive healthcare and/or evaluation and treatment of acute and chronic health conditions under approved written protocols and written practice agreements with collaborating physicians.
This class is intended for use at a non-institutional setting. Employees in this class work in outpatient settings such as county health departments, clinics and other community settings. Employees in this class may supervise other healthcare staff.
Manages care for assigned client caseload within area of specialization, establishing protocols and monitoring treatment plans and clinical practice. Assesses health of clients seeking preventive health services. Takes histories and performs physical examinations and screens for psychosocial issues. Documents clients’ medical and psychological histories, physical assessment results, diagnoses, treatment plans, prescriptions or outcomes. Analyzes and interprets client’s histories, symptoms, physical findings, and/or diagnostic testing results to provide accurate diagnoses. Develops treatment plans for identified health conditions and refers clients to other resources or providers when needed. Prescribes medications and administers treatments, including performing minor procedures, under established protocols as appropriate for the diagnosis. Provides clients, families and groups with information needed to promote health, reduce risk factors, or prevent disease or disabilities. Educates, counsels and monitors the treatment regimen in selected populations. Plans, implements and evaluates clinical orientation and continuing education for public health nurses. Provides consultation to nursing staff. Supervises student nurse practitioners during clinical practicum and assists in coordinating necessary learning experiences.
Knowledge and skill in assessment and management of health of persons, families and groups. Knowledge of physical and psychosocial assessment skills. Knowledge of risk screening and developmental assessment tools. Knowledge of equipment for the care of clients in specialty area(s). Knowledge of community resources to assist in planning and referral for chronic or specialized care. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology and human pathologic processes in order to formulate differential diagnoses and develop accurate assessments and plans. Ability to interpret laboratory findings, reports of radiological studies, and results of other common diagnostic tests. Ability to incorporate appropriate explanations and health education into the care of assigned clients and their families. Ability to function as a role model for both nursing staff and student nurse practitioners. Knowledge of pharmacology necessary for prescribing and monitoring of medications. Ability to perform minor procedures per written protocols. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to monitor and evaluate quality of clinical practice and implement changes as needed. Ability to function as an effective team member.
Licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse by the State Board of Nursing for South Carolina (Board). Some positions require prescriptive authority per the South Carolina Nurse Practice Act, Section 40-33-34. Some positions require certification in Basic Life Support and/or Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Some positions may require possession of a valid driver’s license.
Graduation from an accredited school of nursing at the master's level or doctoral level acceptable to the Board to include clinical experience.