Health Care Nurse

For more than 170 years, Elwyn has been leading the way in supporting children, teens, and adults with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and behavioral health challenges. As a mission-driven nonprofit, we're here to create real change - helping people lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.
At Elwyn, we take care of you while you care for others. Comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision Benefit Packages
Paid On-the-Job Training
Tuition Reimbursement
Flexible Schedules
Retirement Savings Plan
As a member of the Interdisciplinary Care Team (IDT), the Registered Nurse (RN) performs physical assessments and completes health histories; monitors the physical and psychological health of the client; This nurse collaborates with the physician and other healthcare providers and educates clients, families, and staff. This nurse practices within the scope of Pennsylvania's Nurse Practice Act and in accordance with Elwyn's policies and procedures and those of Elwyn's regulatory agencies. Complete a comprehensive nursing assessment upon admission/readmission and as changing health needs indicate
Complete a Quarterly Nursing Assessment every three (3) months that includes a review of systems, full body exam, skin checks, Braden Scale, and Fall Risk Assessment
Upon discharge, complete a Discharge Summary that includes all relevant medication, medical follow up, and pertinent health care information to provide for continuity of care
Present clinical data obtained through direct observation, interview, physical assessment and other reports to the IDT members; Develop a health care plan for clients requiring 24/7 nursing care that will include specific nursing goals and directions for meeting the client's health care needs
Review and revise the health care plan at a minimum of every 90 days and incorporate data gathered through nursing assessments and communication with the IDT
Collaborate with Day and Work Services to ensure that the health care needs of the client are communicated and the necessary documentation forwarded
Collaborate with physicians, physical rehabilitation professionals, therapists, health care professionals and other members of the IDT to plan and implement the therapeutic program of care
Monitor weight and blood pressure measurements at a minimum of monthly and more frequently as indicated by nursing judgement or physician orders Administer enteral tube feedings, blood glucose testing, nebulizer treatments, and skin care as ordered by the physician; Document administration of prescribed medications and treatments on hard copy MARs or in an electronic format (eMARs); Instruct direct care staff on the administration and documentation of specific treatments including but not limited to topical creams and other over the counter (OTCs) agents
Evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of medications and treatments and report any observed side effects and relevant laboratory values to the Health Care Coordinator/Charge Nurse; Contact the physician as directed
assist with data collection related to medication goals
Prepare clients for medical appointments through communication and maintenance of NPO (nothing by mouth) status, procedural preps, and the administration of pre-sedation medication
Document all relevant information in the MAR, nursing progress notes, and 24 Hour Change in Status Report
Provide significant clinical and informational updates to the Charge Nurse throughout the shift; contact the Charge Nurse by phone (1) hour prior to the end of the shift to provide verbal report
Contribute nursing knowledge to the development and maintenance of a safe and therapeutic living environment; inspect the general living areas for present and potential hazards and report to the Unit Director, Health Care Coordinator, or Charge Nurse
Monitor for potential infectious disease among clients and staff and report to the Health Care Coordinator/Charge Nurse who will then report to the Director of Nursing,
Provide nursing coverage to all units as needed; demonstrate flexibility, adaptability, and team work when nursing assignments must be modified
Licensed as a Registered Nurse in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
One (1) year general nursing or medical surgical experience required; Developmental Disabilities nursing experience preferred
Demonstrated skill using an electronic medical record system
Demonstrated excellent judgment with the ability to independently solve problems and make decisions with little or no need for direct supervision
Excellent planning, communication, customer interaction, collaboration, and documentation skills required
Elwyn does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, pregnancy status, medical condition, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, sexual orientation or identity, age, national origin, citizenship, handicap status, marital or family status, mental or physical disability, perceived disability, military or veteran status, political activities or affiliations, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local law, ordinance, or regulation.