Quality Assurance Specialist RN, PT, OT

Quality Assurance Nurse

The Quality Assurance Nurse is responsible for overseeing, monitoring, and improving the quality of care and regulatory compliance within the long-term care facility. This role supports the facility's Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) program by conducting audits, identifying trends, ensuring adherence to CMS, state, and federal regulations, and partnering with clinical leaders to drive sustainable improvements in resident outcomes.

Quality Assurance & Performance Improvement

• Lead and support the facility's QAPI program in alignment with CMS requirements
• Conduct routine and focused clinical audits including:
• Medication administration and storage
• Infection prevention and control
• Wound care and pressure injury prevention
• Falls and accident investigations
• Documentation accuracy and timeliness
• Care plan compliance and effectiveness
• Analyze quality indicators and outcomes to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement
• Develop, implement, and monitor Plans of Correction (POCs) following surveys, audits, or adverse events

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with CMS, state, and federal regulations governing long-term care
• Prepare the facility for state and federal surveys, mock surveys, and complaint investigations
• Review survey findings and collaborate with leadership on corrective action plans
• Maintain regulatory documentation and quality reports

Infection Prevention & Risk Management

• Support infection prevention initiatives in collaboration with the Infection Preventionist
• Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) for adverse events, infections, falls, and hospital readmissions
• Monitor infection control practices and adherence to facility policies

Education & Staff Support

• Provide education and coaching to nursing staff related to quality standards, documentation, and best practices
• Reinforce evidence-based clinical practices and regulatory expectations
• Serve as a resource to nurse managers and interdisciplinary team members

Data & Reporting

• Collect, track, and report quality metrics including:
• Pressure injuries
• Falls
• Infections
• Rehospitalizations
• Medication errors
• Assist with Quality Measure (QM) monitoring and performance improvement initiatives
• Prepare quality reports for leadership, committees, and governing bodies

Qualifications

Required

• Current, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN, PT, OT) license (state-specific)
• Minimum 3–5 years of nursing experience in a long-term care or skilled nursing facility
• Strong knowledge of CMS regulations, survey process, and QAPI standards
• Demonstrated experience with clinical auditing and quality improvement

Preferred

• Prior experience in Quality Assurance, Risk Management, or Infection Prevention
• Knowledge of MDS, care planning, and interdisciplinary processes
• Experience participating in or leading survey readiness activities
• Certification in Quality (e.g., CPHQ) or Infection Prevention (CIC) preferred

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Ability to educate, influence, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
• Proficient in electronic health records (EHR) and quality reporting tools

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to walk throughout the facility and perform unit rounding
• Ability to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods
• Occasional lifting consistent with nursing responsibilities

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Reduction in survey citations and repeat deficiencies
• Improved clinical outcomes (falls, pressure injuries, infections)
• Timely completion and effectiveness of Plans of Correction
• Increased staff compliance with documentation and care standards

Compliance Statement

This position complies with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. The Quality Assurance Nurse is expected to uphold ethical standards, resident rights, and confidentiality at all times.