Public Health Nurse
Description:
Posted 6/27/24 - DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a professional nursing position in the local health unit responsible for providing nursing assessment and education to clients in the home setting under the Licensed Home care Agency certificate carried by the Department of Health as well as in the clinical setting under the Article 28 Diagnostic and Treatment Center. Work is performed under the direction of the Director of Patient Services and required independence in the field and substantial specialized skills. This position is also responsible for educational programs and presentations to community groups as assigned. Supervision may be exercised over the work of Community Health Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses.
A Public Health Nurse also does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
- Provides skilled nursing assessment and develops nursing care plan for clients and families admitted to their care for health guidance lead poisoning, children at risk of developmental delay or other services as needed;
- Provides guidance, instruction and demonstration in health principles and nursing procedures to promote good health and well being;
- Provides skilled nursing assessment treatment and care to clients presenting to public health clinics for (including, but not limited to) immunization, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV testing, child health, chronic disease screening and tuberculosis (treatments are ordered by the Medical Consultant or the Public Health Nurse Practitioner);
- Conducts home visits to provide and observe direct administration of tuberculosis medication to promote compliance and prevent spread of disease;
- Communicates with physicians and others involved in the client’s care to insure service coordination;
- Refers clients to other agencies as appropriate;
- Participates in epidemiological investigations and other studies and surveys as needed;
- Compiles records for the documentation of client care and services provided, time accountability, statistical information, correspondence and written reports as required;
- Provides small group presentations regarding health promotion, disease prevention and public health principles as assigned;
- Review of division documentation for appropriate goals and accuracy, making recommendations for follow up.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Thorough knowledge of current nursing practice and community health principles; thorough knowledge of the epidemiological approach to the prevention and control of disease; thorough knowledge of
PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE – contd. 2.
community agencies and resources; ability to plan and coordinate nursing care for individuals and families; ability to follow written and oral instructions, ability to prepare reports and written documentation in an accurate manner; ability to communicate effectively with others; ability to perform duties in accordance with ANA Code for Professional Nurses; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position;
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Possession of a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university; possession of a license and current registration to practice as a Registered Professional Nurse to practice in New York State.
Location: Rensselaer County Public Health Department
Grade: 18
Salary: $66,946
Send Resume to: Maryfran Wachunas, Public Health Director
Rensselaer County Health Department 5th floor
1600 7th Avenue
Troy, NY 12180