Provides specialized patient care management of complex or critically ill patients.
This class is intended for use at the advanced level in the patient care management of complex or critically ill patients. Patient care may be provided in clinical settings, hospitals, health departments, universities, etc.
Manages acute and chronic diseases in accordance with medical protocols. Performs comprehensive assessment of complex or critically ill patient's needs, including appropriate family history and complete physical examination; distinguishes between normal and abnormal findings; orders diagnostic testing as appropriate, including radiologic and laboratory studies; accurately interprets findings. Develops a comprehensive plan of care for high-risk patients; evaluates patient response to medical treatment and makes changes as needed; documents progress of patients. Performs highly skilled and technical procedures. Monitors nursing care delivered. Serves as role model and teacher for nursing staff and provides instruction/supervision as necessary. Counsels and educates the parents and family members regarding the patient's condition. Participants in ongoing medical research projects. Conducts nursing research; evaluate outcomes; make recommendations for future management of patient care based on findings and present research findings. Supervises student nurse practitioners during clinical practicum; serves as instructor and has sufficient expertise to evaluate proficiency of students.
Knowledge of patient care practices in one or more medical specialties. Knowledge of physical assessment skills for high-risk patients. Knowledge of risk screening and developmental assessment tools. Knowledge of the use of specialized equipment used in the care of high-risk patients. Ability to make complex decisions. Ability to interpret laboratory findings. Ability to incorporate explanations and health education into the care of high-risk patients and their families. Ability to design and conduct nursing research, having an extensive understanding of the research process. Ability to function as role model for both nursing staff and student nurse practitioners. Ability to effectively use community resources to meet the needs of patients.
Positions in this classification require licensure as a Registered Nurse and hold official recognition as a Nurse Practitioner from the South Carolina Board of Nursing. Positions may be licensed to practice in the extended role and authorized for prescriptive authority.
Graduation from an accredited school of nursing with clinical experience.