Provides advanced nursing care in the treatment of acute, episodic, chronic and psychiatric illnesses and disorders.
This class is intended for use in an institutional setting at the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs, the South Carolina Department of Corrections, the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice and the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department, but should not be used for all nurses at those agencies. The use of the institutional classifications should be limited to those who provide care in an inpatient setting involving high-risk/high-acuity patients. Employees in this class may supervise other health care staff.
Manages care for assigned patient caseload within area of specialization, establishing protocols and monitoring treatment plans and clinical practice. Documents patients’ medical and psychological histories, physical assessment results, diagnoses, treatment plans, prescriptions or outcomes. Analyzes and interprets patient’s histories, symptoms, physical findings or diagnostic information to develop appropriate diagnoses. Provides patients with information needed to promote health, reduce risk factors or prevent disease or disabilities. Performs admission procedures for a designated caseload of patients. Determines a daily plan of care for a designated caseload in collaboration with members of the health care team. Performs complex procedures including cast application and removal, wound suturing, endotracheal intubation, chest compression and intravenous and arterial line placement. Monitors nursing care delivered. Participates in ongoing medical and nursing research projects. Supervises student nurse practitioners during clinical practicum and assists in coordinating necessary learning experiences. Prescribes psychotropic and other medication as authorized.
Knowledge and skill in assessment and management of physical and psychosocial health of persons, families and groups. Knowledge of physical and mental assessment skills for normal and high-risk patients. Knowledge of risk screening and developmental assessment tools. Knowledge of equipment for the care of patients in specialty area(s). Knowledge of community resources to assist in discharge planning and referral for chronic care. Ability to interpret laboratory findings. Ability to incorporate explanations and health education into the care of assigned patients and their families. Ability to design and conduct nursing research utilizing an extensive understanding of the research process. Ability to function as a role model for both nursing staff and student nurse practitioners. Knowledge of the prescription and monitoring of psychotropic medications including the use in conjunction with medications to address physical diseases/conditions.
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 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.