Enterostomal Therapist RN

MyMichigan Health•Alpena, MI

About The Position

Educates and manages a select group of patients in inpatient and outpatient settings, often in collaboration with other professionals. Uses a holistic approach to support patient rehabilitation and maximize each patient’s potential to return as a functional member of society. Teaches specialized skills to physicians, nurses, and students to promote quality patient care. Assesses and manages care for patients with ostomies, draining wounds, fistulas, pressure ulcers, and skin-care needs associated with incontinence. Develops, implements, and evaluates individualized plans of care, revising them as needed, and collaborates with physicians regarding patient needs. Provides one-to-one education to patients and caregivers, develops and updates protocols, evaluates equipment, orients personnel, and delivers in-services and lectures. Participates in performance improvement, quality, and safety initiatives.

Requirements

Registered Nurse (RN) credential.
Bachelor’s degree in Nursing.
CWOCN credential within 24 months of hire or transfer.
Knowledge of nursing skills for ostomies, wounds, and fistulas, normally acquired through two years of experience working in a medical center or similar setting.
Ability to work independently to produce desired results.
Interpersonal skills to communicate clearly with individuals and groups and interact with people at all levels.
Demonstrated competency in Microsoft Windows; may be required to participate in further learning opportunities.
Ability to move freely about the facility, with or without an assistive device, and perform the job functions described.
Overall vision and hearing, with or without assistive devices.
Ability to handle multiple tasks, work well with others, work independently, maintain regular and predictable attendance, and stay awake.
Dexterity for handling, reaching, grasping, fingering, and feeling, potentially repeated regularly or frequently.
Ability to meet the stated physical demands: occasionally lift or carry 21–50 pounds; frequently handle 20 pounds and/or walk, stand, or push/pull arm or leg controls; constantly handle 10 pounds.

Responsibilities

Assess care needs of patients with ostomies, draining wounds, fistulas, pressure ulcers, and skin-care needs associated with incontinence.
Establish and implement plans of care; evaluate and reevaluate outcomes and make individualized changes.
Collaborate with physicians regarding patient care needs.
Educate patients and caregivers on a one-to-one basis.
Write new protocols and update existing protocols.
Evaluate and update equipment for ostomates and wounds.
Orient new personnel on ostomy care, skin care, and tube care.
Provide in-services and lectures for residents, nursing personnel, and students.
Prepare displays and take wound slides for lectures.
Participate in performance improvement, quality, and safety initiatives for patient and staff care.
Perform other duties as assigned.