Registered Nurse PCA Program

Job Description

Job Description

The Registered Nurse participates in screening potential program participants in their homes or other settings and provides ongoing monitoring and support to program participants as indicated in the PCM program regulations.

Position responsibilities and requirements include: 

• Be knowledgeable of and comply with all state, federal and agency regulations, policies and procedures pertaining to the PCM program including time frames and Tri-Valley’s agency mission.
• Assess the consumer’s physical and cognitive condition and resulting functional limitations to determine the consumer’s personal care assistance services.
• Determine the type and amount of personal care assistance required by the potential participant according to state guidelines through face-to-face interviews.  Review fully with consumer before finalizing request for services. 
• Obtain MD signature on the evaluation, either before submitting request for services, or after obtaining a verbal authorization for services. 
• Work in conjunction with the Functional Skills Trainer and Occupational Therapist to insure the evaluation is consistent in all three areas.
• Develop and follow the schedule for re-evaluations to insure timeliness and continuity of PCA services.
• Conduct assessments for adjustment requests either by telephone or face-to-face as needed.
• Provide timely and complete written documentation of evaluations, re-evaluations and adjustment requests.
• Input information on evaluations, re-evaluations, adjustments and any consumer/surrogate contact into the PCA software system.
• Maintain contact with physicians, MassHealth and consumers as needed.
• Provide and/or surrogates training to consumers as needed. 
• Refer consumers to appropriate medical providers or other community resources when necessary.
• Communicate with PCA Program Director, Functional Skills Trainers and PCA consultants to resolve any PCA related issues.
• Provide education to all PCA staff in the areas of personal health care and self care vs. hands-on assistance with ADLs.
• Conduct clinical reviews of evaluations completed by PCA per diem RN’s to insure clinical eligibility criteria are met.
• Participate in the PCA Appeals Process as required by the PCA Program Director.
• Attend meetings and trainings as directed by the Program Director.
• Participate actively in outreach to build the PCA program in the communities being served.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Director.

Essential Functions/Qualifications

1. Valid MA RN License.

1. Regular and reliable attendance.

1. Organizational and time management skills.

1. Communication Skills with employees, consumers, physicians, family members, providers (telephone, email or in person, as needed).

1. Cultural competency and the ability to provide informed advocacy.

1. Arithmetic computations.

1. Quality improvement.

1. Medical terminology.

1. Familiarity with state wide health care network.

1. Written communication skills.

1. Demonstrated analysis and problem solving skills.

1. Meet deadlines in a timely fashion.

1. Able to develop and maintain positive effective relationships with providers, consumers, and the public.

1. Problem solving skills.

1. Works independently and as a member of a team.

1. Motor vehicle.

1. Valid Driver’s license; maintain minimum insurance liability on vehicle and complete motor vehicle driving record check.

1. Accurate record keeping skills.

1. Maintain Confidentiality.

1. Attention to detail.

1. Ability to meet deadlines.

1. Knowledge of PCA program and or MassHealth programs and community supports.

1. Computer acuity

1. Software Windows, Excel, Power Point, Dynamics, Outlook

1. Calculators

1. Ability to be flexible and work in a fast-paced environment.

1. Maintain caseload/production at program/department standards.

Physical Demands:

• Computer access.
• Ability to traverse homes, yards and stairways.
• Must be able to sit for periods of time at computer or while driving.
• Must be able to carry files of up to 5 pounds and laptop.