Registered Nurse – Pulmonary Rehab

The Pulmonary Rehab nurse at BFMC is responsible for implementing all aspects of the Pulmonary Rehab program, including daily operational flow of the program.

The RN assesses plans, supervises and evaluates all direct and non-direct patient care in the program. The RN serves as the primary coordinator for all disciplines in the program and

demonstrates a collaborative interaction as part of the multi-disciplinary team. The Pulmonary Rehab RN has a comprehensive understanding of Pulmonary patient assessment skills and is well

versed in contemporary management of a variety of Pulmonary conditions and current treatment modalities. The individual is familiar with current management of pulmonary medications and

devices, oxygen assessment and monitoring, oxygen devices, diabetes management, tobacco cessation, and psychological issues. The Pulmonary Rehab RN should be familiar with Exercise

training, including musculoskeletal assessment, physical limitations, exercise tolerance, need for supplemental oxygen therapy, and gait and balance assessment. The Pulmonary Rehab RN must

have strong assessment skills and be comfortable working autonomously and in a small team environment. The RN must have excellent communication and organizational skills. It is crucial that

the Pulmonary Rehab RN has ability to work independently. The RN clearly communicates and educates patients and families regarding Disease management, smoking cessation, medication

adherence and use, and symptom recognition and reporting of illness. Displays enthusiasm and confidence with an ability to motivate self and others. The administrative aspects of the program are coordinated by the Pulmonary Rehab RN. These

include comprehensive insurance knowledge, program eligibility criteria, organizing referrals and scheduling Disease Management visits and initial evaluations. They are responsible for organizing

patient education, policy development and annual program competencies. Responsible for program outcomes and performance measures.

1) A broad knowledge of medical-surgical nursing with specific expertise and training in the area of Pulmonary nursing.

2) Incumbent must be able to lead / supervise an exercise class with O2 sat monitoring and manage small group dynamics. Demonstration of exercise included.

3) Conduct a comprehensive physical and psychosocial assessment including the PR patient's health status and educational learning needs.

4) Develop exercise prescription and individual treatment plan specific to patient needs. The comprehensive plan will include education, exercise, behavior change and counseling.

5) Monitors progress and response to exercise via assessment of O2 sat, HR, blood pressure, rate of perceived dyspnea and patient symptoms, directing care accordingly.

6) Analyzes clinical diagnostics, procedures and laboratory results to fully compile a health assessment and exercise prescription and communicate this information to patient and family.

7) Collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team to formulate/ implement a plan of care. Initiates and updates Individualized Treatment Plans.

8) Evaluate patient retention of all delineated information and adjust plan accordingly.

9) Document all levels of patient care and teaching towards patient care/ program goals.

10) Demonstrates an ability to make sound judgements and takes initiative in completing tasks.

11) Maintain accurate/program patient data and assist in outcome measurement/ management.

12) Update referring provider and/or Medical Director of changes in patient's status or progress

1) Minimally Required Education: If none required select “none required” Preferred Education:

2) Bachelor's Degree Nursing None Required

3) Minimally Required Experience: If none required select “none required”. Preferred Experience:

   3-5 years clinical experience in acute care medical center Current or previous clinical Pulmonary nursing care

4) Certification: BLS; ACLS

Skills/Competencies:

Strong patient education/coaching skills. Evidence of a commitment to professional growth through participation in continuing education in nursing, Pulmonary rehabilitation concepts.