Registered Nurse (RN) Job Description
**Job Title:** Home Health Admissions Nurse
**Job Summary:**
The Home Health Admissions Nurse is responsible for conducting initial patient assessments, developing care plans, and coordinating the start of care for patients receiving home health services. This role involves evaluating patient needs, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and collaborating with healthcare providers to facilitate a smooth transition to home health care. The Admissions Nurse plays a critical role in ensuring patients receive appropriate and timely care in their homes.
**Key Responsibilities:**
1. **Patient Assessment:**
- Conduct comprehensive initial assessments of patients in their homes or other settings.
- Evaluate the patient’s medical, emotional, and social needs to determine eligibility for home health services.
- Review medical history, medications, and current health status.
2. **Care Planning:**
- Develop individualized care plans based on the patient’s needs, physician orders, and agency policies.
- Collaborate with physicians, family members, and other healthcare providers to establish goals and interventions.
- Ensure care plans are aligned with regulatory and accreditation standards.
3. **Coordination of Care:**
- Coordinate the start of care with the home health team, including scheduling visits and assigning appropriate staff.
- Communicate with physicians to obtain necessary orders and clarify treatment plans.
- Educate patients and families on the home health process, services, and expectations.
4. **Documentation:**
- Complete all required documentation accurately and timely, including admission paperwork, care plans, and OASIS assessments.
- Ensure compliance with state, federal, and agency regulations.
5. **Patient and Family Education:**
- Provide education to patients and caregivers on disease management, medication administration, and home safety.
- Address questions and concerns to ensure understanding and comfort with the home health process.
6. **Quality Assurance:**
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction.
- Monitor patient progress and adjust care plans as needed.
7. **Communication:**
- Maintain open and effective communication with the home health team, physicians, and other stakeholders.
- Serve as a liaison between the patient, family, and healthcare providers.
**Qualifications:**
- **Education:** Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (ADN/BSN) from an accredited program.
- **Licensure:** Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice.
- **Experience:** Minimum of 1-2 years of nursing experience, preferably in home health, hospice, or a related field.
- **Skills:**
- Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
- Proficiency in electronic medical records (EMR) and OASIS documentation.
- **Certifications:** CPR certification may be required. Additional certifications (e.g., OASIS specialist, home health nursing) are a plus.
**Working Conditions:**
- Travel to patient homes and other healthcare settings is required.
- May involve working evenings or weekends to meet patient needs.
- Physical demands include standing, walking, and lifting medical equipment.
**Reports To:** Home Health Clinical Manager or Director of Nursing
**Compensation:** Competitive salary, mileage reimbursement, and benefits package.
This job description outlines the primary duties and qualifications for a Home Health Admissions Nurse. Specific responsibilities may vary depending on the agency and patient population served.