Registered Nurse, Surgical Services - Colon Screening Program

Detailed Overview

In accordance with established vision and values of the organization, this position practices in accordance with the standards of professional practice and code of ethics as outlined by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) as well as within a patient and family centered care model.

In collaboration with members of the interdisciplinary clinical team, this position coordinates services for participants / patients within the Colon Screening Program (CSP), health care providers and family physicians in order to ensure continuity of care and the achievement of optimal health outcomes, including the provision of participant / patient and family education and supporting linkages.

• Working collaboratively with an integrated team, coordinates care to referred participants / patients by performing pre and post colonoscopy assessments, providing participant / patient and family education relating to procedures and decision-making;
• identifies, establishes and promotes linkages between the program, participants / patients, health-care providers, community agencies and colonoscopy facilities;

assists in the development, implementation and effectiveness of program policies, procedures, standards and processes. Utilizes best-practice principles and data collection criteria to provide quality and consistent care in an efficient and integrated model.

This position is expected to perform work at other designated sites within Fraser Health. Responsibilities Coordinates care for program participants / patients referred by physicians to the Colon Screening Program (CSP) across various sites by providing participant / patient pre and post colonoscopy assessment and ensuring the provision of appropriate referral, screening and follow-up with the interdisciplinary team.

Performs / conducts assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning, intervention and referral services for referred participants / patients.

Assesses participant / patient appropriateness for colonoscopy; refers and / or collaborates with interdisciplinary team members to determine appropriate screening and follow-up procedures.

Collaborates with interdisciplinary team in the development of appropriate care plans for participants / patients; provides direct care and / or intervenes in care based on clinical practice guidelines and protocols as required.

Assesses participants / patients and families need for education and support and ensures that needs are met. Utilizes a variety of clinical based information and resources to provide information, education and support to participants / patients and families regarding screening, follow-up procedure options, risks / benefits and information on various diagnostic procedures.

Develops, delivers and evaluates participant / patient education material; initiates referrals to interdisciplinary team, as appropriate.

Supports and coordinates the work of the clinical team for the designated clinics / hospitals through coordination of the assessment, education and booking processes.

Completes Assessment Form and submits to BC Cancer Agency; ensures information is entered in central database to ensure performance indicators are maintained and reported back to Health Authority.

Advises physician if participant / patient is not proceeding to colonoscopy. Conducts post-colonoscopy assessment by reviewing pathology with colonoscopist and recommending / ensuring further testing is undertaken if required.

Follows-up with participant / patient, completes follow-up form and submits information to BC Cancer Agency for purposes of findings and surveillance recommendations to physician, colonoscopist and / or Manager (or designate).

In collaboration with staff and CSP stakeholders, is responsible for the collection, compilation, accuracy, documentation and submission of data to the BC Cancer Agency.

Obtains and / or ensures relevant participant / patient information from various sources (CSP, physician, health records, participant / patient, etc);

develops data / information collection tools; maintains records and ensures that results are reported to appropriate areas.

Ensures quality assurance guidelines / parameters are adhered to in the collecting and reporting of information / data. In collaboration with CSP stakeholders and Manager (or designate), participates in the development of program policies, procedures, standards and processes for colon screening and follow-up;

evaluates and monitors service outcomes and recommends modifications to the program to improve services and participant / patient experiences.

• Participates in the ongoing development and evaluation of the CSP by collaborating with the Manager (or designate) to identify present and potential needs of the program;
• reviewing CSP procedures, goals and processes; reviewing, developing, implementing and evaluating patient care processes;

and implementing and evaluating systems pertaining to the coordination of participant / patient activities.Plans, conducts and evaluates research activities or projects as identified by the interdisciplinary team, Management or CSP.

Monitors and reports on clinical trends and activities relevant to the program; liaises with external resources / agencies to transfer knowledge and share information.

Participates in the on-going evaluation, assessment and improvement of the Colon Screening Program through close liaison with the Manager (or designate) and integrated team.

Provides recommendations and implements changes to continuously improve partnering with the BC Cancer Agency, community and health care linkages in efforts to improve patient care and outcomes in areas related to the Colon Screening Program.

Assists with developing and maintaining partnerships with health agencies, community organizations and educational facilities by organizing and facilitating established training sessions, and participating on educational networks, committees, meetings and conferences as required / directed.

• Monitors current trends in colon cancer screening by performing duties such as : identifying and fulfilling own learning needs and participating in education programs and workshops;
• researching current information by utilizing library and internet resources and by maintaining files related to current issues;

and planning, evaluating assigned CSP projects and research activities. Performs other related duties as assigned. Qualifications Education and Experience Graduation from an approved School of Nursing.

Two years recent, related experience working with patients undergoing diagnostic or surgical procedures for diagnosis or treatment for colon cancer screening or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Current practicing registration as a Registered Nurse with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM). Valid BC Drivers License with access to a vehicle for business-related purposes.

Skills and Abilities Clinical proficiency and expertise in the designated clinical area. Ability to conduct and coordinate patient / participant assessments and establish priorities and / or referrals within the designated program.

Ability to assess and identify patient / family need for education and support and to provide patient / family education and information.

Ability to establish collaborative and appropriate linkages within an integrated clinical team in order to provide patient care and support.

Ability to monitor the quality of patient care and ensure maintenance of standards for nursing practice as appropriate. Ability to role model, coach and mentor best practices in patient care.

Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Ability to work independently and in an organized and self directed manner.

Ability to problem-solve and effectively deal with conflict situations. Ability to operate related equipment including applicable software.

Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.