The primary purpose of the Wound Care Coordinator position is to provide wound care prevention and treatment to residents under the direction of attending physicians and/or Medical Director and consistent with established wound care protocols.
· Implement and maintain established wound care policies and protocols. Interpret these protocols to physicians, residents, family members and others as appropriate.
· Make recommendations to the attending physician, Medical Director, DON and Quality Improvement Consultant concerning the wound care protocols, preventive measures and specialty care of residents.
· Participate in facility surveys made by authorized government agencies as requested by the Director of Nursing.
· Confer with RN Team Leaders to identify residents at risk for wounds or those who require assessment of wounds and treatment interventions.
· Provide on-site assessment of residents to determine status and develop plan of care.
· Implement preventive measures and wound care, based on resident assessment and established protocols.
· Provide educational health care services. Make recommendations to the resident concerning nutrition, hydration, positioning, prevention of skin breakdown, management of chronic conditions, etc.
· Document wound care assessments, treatments rendered and communication with residents, families and physicians in the electronic medical record.
· Participate in Interdisciplinary Care Plan Team to develop a comprehensive care plan for residents.
· Serve on the Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) Committee to assess the facility wound care status and improvement plan.
· Attends morning clinical meetings.
· Participates in High Risk weekly meetings.
· Cooperate with other associates to achieve departmental objectives and maintain good interdepartmental and public relations.
· Maintain an effective, professional working relationship with physicians, consultants, family members, residents and associates.
· Assist in establishing an inventory of medical supplies and equipment to meet the needs of residents.
· As appropriate, use personal protective equipment and clothing when treating residents.
· Report occupational exposures to blood, body fluids, infectious materials and hazardous chemicals according to facility policy and procedures.