Agape's Way -
Position Overview
The Registered Nurse (RN) for the APD division at Agape’s Way is responsible for providing high-quality home-based nursing care to clients with developmental disabilities.
The RN ensures that all care provided adheres to the client’s Individual Plan (IP) and is delivered in accordance with medical orders.
This role involves performing comprehensive nursing assessments, administering medications, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal client outcomes.
Reports to : Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON)
Key Responsibilities
Comprehensive Patient Assessments
Perform comprehensive nursing assessments at the start of each shift and as needed, evaluating clients’ physical, emotional, and psychological health.
Identify signs and symptoms of changes in health status and provide immediate intervention or escalate care to the Director of Nursing (DON) or physician as necessary.
Collect, interpret, and document vital signs (e.g., temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and respiration) and other relevant health data on a regular basis.
Monitor chronic conditions, ensuring that interventions are in place to maintain or improve the client’s overall health and well-being.
Care Plan Implementation & Evaluation
Follow the individualized plan of care for each client, ensuring nursing interventions are aligned with medical orders and healthcare objectives.
Work closely with the waiver support coordinators to ensure that care plans are kept up-to-date and adjusted as clients’ needs change.
Evaluate the effectiveness of care plans and nursing interventions, making adjustments as necessary based on the client’s health status.
Collaborate with other members of the healthcare team to ensure all aspects of the care plan are implemented and client goals are met.
Medication Administration & Management
Administer prescribed medications (oral, topical, injectable) in accordance with the physician’s orders and the seven rights of medication administration.
Observe and monitor clients for any adverse reactions to medications and notify the Director of Nursing (DON) or physician of any concerns.
Maintain and update Medication Administration Records (MAR) accurately and in real-time to reflect medication doses administered and any observations made.
Provide education to clients and families regarding medication regimens and encourage medication adherence.
Collaboration & Communication
Work closely with the Director of Nursing (DON), LPNs, CNAs, and other healthcare providers to ensure that all care services are coordinated and integrated effectively.
Maintain open and regular communication with clients, families, and caregivers to ensure that all parties are informed of the client’s health status and care needs.
Participate in care coordination meetings and contribute to the development and refinement of care plans as needed.
Ensure that any changes in client health, incidents, or concerns are reported promptly to the Director of Nursing (DON).
Client Advocacy & Emotional Support
Serve as an advocate for the clients, ensuring their voice is heard in care decisions and that their rights and dignity are respected.
Provide emotional support to clients and families, helping them navigate the challenges of home-based care.
Help foster independence in clients by promoting self-care activities and participation in daily living tasks when appropriate.
Documentation & Compliance
Ensure all documentation of client care, medication administration, and nursing interventions is completed accurately and in a timely manner.
Maintain strict confidentiality of client information in compliance with HIPAA and other relevant healthcare regulations.
Conduct regular chart reviews to ensure compliance with all documentation standards, policies, and procedures.
Participate in quality improvement and performance management programs to ensure that care delivery meets regulatory and organizational standards.
Emergency Preparedness & Safety
Follow all safety protocols to ensure a safe environment for both staff and clients in the home.
Be prepared to respond to medical emergencies, providing appropriate intervention and ensuring the proper documentation and reporting of incidents.
Ensure emergency equipment (e.g., oxygen tanks, medical supplies) in client homes is checked regularly and functioning properly.
Educate clients and families on basic health and safety measures, including the management of medical equipment and medication storage.
Required Qualifications
Registered Nurse (RN) licensed to practice in the state of Florida.
Associates Degree in Nursing or higher.
Minimum of 1 year of experience in home health or working with individuals with developmental disabilities, preferred.
Knowledge of healthcare regulations, including HIPAA, OSHA, and nursing standards for home care.
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with clients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
Ability to push or pull 50 pounds or more, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Flexibility to work during holidays and inclement weather, and ability to travel to multiple home locations as needed.
Benefits :
Competitive salary and benefits package.
Flexible work schedule with opportunities to provide direct care to clients in their homes.
Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.