Nurse Specialist, Elder Life

As a patient-focused organization, University of Utah Health exists to enhance the health and well-being of people through patient care, research and education. Success in this mission requires a culture of collaboration, excellence, leadership, and respect. University of Utah Health seeks staff that are committed to the values of compassion, collaboration, innovation, responsibility, diversity, integrity, quality and trust that are integral to our mission. EO/AA

The position is responsible for patient assessments and will develop interdisciplinary plans. Collaborates with interdisciplinary care of professionals and volunteers. The incumbent will provide ongoing educational programs in geriatric nursing care and mentor colleagues. This position may be required to access and administer medications within their scope of practice and according to State Law.

Corporate Overview: The University of Utah is a Level 1 Trauma Center and is nationally ranked and recognized for our academic research, quality standards and overall patient experience. Our five hospitals and eleven clinics provide excellence in our comprehensive services, medical advancement, and overall patient outcomes.

Responsibilities

Geriatric nursing assessment of all program patients, with implementation of nursing protocols for the program. Daily communication with unit nursing staff regarding geriatric vital signs issues. Monitor and record adherence to all nursing protocols and outcomes.

Consultant to nursing staff to provide comprehensive geriatric assessment and interventions with emphasis on prevention of cognitive and functional decline.

Coordinate interdisciplinary geriatric team rounds on nursing unit and assure clinical implementation of recommendations.

Monitor patients’ interventions and outcomes. Serve as a liaison between program staff and nursing staff and assure coordination of services with regular nursing care.

Establish and address reasons for non-adherence and implement changes to improve services.

Continually reevaluate program interventions and outcomes to respond to patient care needs and outcomes. Monitor recent literature and appropriately implement changes to improve services.

Serve as a clinical resource and as a role model regarding geriatric nursing care.

Provide nursing staff regular didactic educational sessions, case conferences and one-to-one bedside teaching.

Serve as a liaison between the Hospital Elder Life Program, physicians, and other health care specialties in the hospital.

Develop knowledge of and a mechanism for regular communication with key staff of community agencies to which older patients are commonly discharged, including visiting nursing agencies, congregate housing and nursing facilities.

Collaborate with hospital discharge planning staff and community agencies to optimize care after discharge. Support patients and their families in establishing viable plans and support systems for care after hospital discharge.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

Ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined above.

Demonstrated human relation and effective communication skills.

Ability to provide care appropriate to the population served.

Qualifications

Qualifications

Required

3-5 years geriatric experience.

Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree (BSN).

Licenses Required

Current license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Utah, or obtain one within 90 days of hire under the interstate compact if switching residency to State of Utah. Must maintain current Interstate Compact (multi-state) license if residency is not being changed to Utah.

Current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system. The eCredential is to be obtained within 30 days of hire. * Additional license requirements as determined by the hiring department.

Qualifications (Preferred)

Preferred

Masters of Science in Nursing degree (MSN).

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

Employee must be able to meet the following requirements with or without an accommodation.

This position involves intensive work that may exert up to 100 pounds and may consistently require lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling or otherwise moving objects, such as medical equipment, or patients, while providing medical care. Workers in this position may be exposed to infectious diseases and may be required to function around prisoners or behavioral health patients.

Physical Requirements

Carrying, Color Determination, Far Vision, Lifting, Listening, Manual Dexterity, Near Vision, Reaching, Sitting, Speaking, Standing, Walking

Full-Time