TB Registered Nurse

Hidalgo County•Edinburg, TX

About The Position

The TB Registered Nurse works under the supervision of the RN TB Clinic Supervisor and the TB Physician as a tuberculosis clinic nurse. The role monitors all aspects of tuberculosis case nursing management, including treatment compliance and contact investigations, as well as people receiving treatment for latent TB infection. The nurse also assists with orientation and training of new personnel. The position supports tuberculosis program operations through case monitoring, reporting, infection-control monitoring, staff support, and implementation of program strategies. It requires nursing experience, experience treating and monitoring tuberculosis, and registration as a Registered Nurse in Texas or a state participating in the Nurse Licensure Compact. A current valid Texas motor vehicle operator’s license and eligibility for coverage by the County’s insurance carrier are also required.

Requirements

Three years of experience in nursing work.
Experience in the treatment and monitoring of tuberculosis.
Registration as a Registered Nurse by the State of Texas or by a state that recognizes reciprocity through the Nurse Licensure Compact.
Current valid Texas motor vehicle operator’s license.
Must be eligible for coverage by the County’s insurance carrier.
Knowledge of nursing techniques and procedures, health care laws and regulations, medical diagnoses and procedures, accepted medical treatment patterns, community health and nursing care principles and practices, program regulations and procedures, and utilization review and control measures.
Ability to provide patient care, prepare and maintain records, and explain public health law.
Ability to organize, coordinate, and evaluate nursing activities and delivery of public health services.
Ability to interpret policies, procedures, and health care regulations; recognize patterns of medical-necessity treatment; and plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Bilingual in Spanish and English, with the ability to converse fluently in both languages.

Nice To Haves

Graduation from an accredited four-year college with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is preferred; an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from an accredited nursing school is also listed.

Responsibilities

Monitor assigned TB cases for DOT/DOPT compliance, toxicity, contact investigations, and follow-up according to standing protocols.
Monitor tuberculosis activities in jails and other correctional facilities.
Monitor and, when necessary, develop methods for preparing and collecting data required by the DSHS special population program.
Assist the special population TB LVN with completing reports and ensure reports are submitted on time.
Help identify TB Program needs, plan effective strategies, and implement change.
Understand and interpret public health laws and regulations related to tuberculosis control activities.
Assist with orienting staff and evaluating staff performance based on TB Program objectives, as needed.
Participate in TB Q&A.
Assist with monitoring infection control in the Pulmonary clinic.
Follow laboratory collection protocols for blood and sputum, report abnormal laboratory results to the TB physician, and make appropriate referrals.
Perform other related duties as assigned; duties may change with the changing needs of the County.