Patient Educator

JOB SUMMARY

• The RN - Patient and Family Educator is responsible for assisting with the planning, implementation and evaluation of patient and family education programs at Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County. The Patient Educator will independently assess patient and family learning needs and provide individualized education accordingly. The Patient Educator RN will work collaboratively as an active member of the interprofessional team to provide therapeutic patient and family centered care. The RN Patient Educator establishes goals and strategies for meeting care coordination needs across settings with the patient, family, and/or other care providers and to optimize patient outcomes. The program of care is planned and implemented utilizing evidence-based practices including those related to health literacy, patient empowerment, and cost- effective approaches to patient care. This position reports to the Director of Education for overall program direction and evaluation.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing. The School of Nursing degree may be that of an Associate Degree in Nursing, Diploma in Nursing, or bachelor’s degree in nursing.  A bachelor’s degree in nursing is encouraged. Currently licensed and in good standing as a Registered Nurse by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing / eCompact.

Job Knowledge and Skills:

• • Knowledge of educational principles as they relate to patient and family education.
  • Demonstrates excellence in patient teaching.
  • Knowledge of current clinical practices/ technologies related to self-care and willingness to learn technologies.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively with health care professionals across settings.
  • Current computer skills and willingness to learn multiple computer applications.
  • Knowledge of skills in quality improvement initiatives.

JOB DEMANDS

1. Works flexible hours.
2. Accepts change as position grows with the progress of the practice.
3. Works as a team member and independently; is self-directed with minimal need for guidance.
4. Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
5. Is responsive and accepts responsibility and accountability.
6. Displays exceptional customer service standards.
7. Develops and maintains a positive working relationship with outside healthcare entities and partners.
8. Promotes Memorial Hospital Sweetwater County with a positive professional image to all visitors, patients, and employees.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Ensure assessment, development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive patient and family education program at MHSC.
   1. Identify learning needs and provide individualized education based on specific learning needs and preferences.
   2. Evaluate the effectiveness of the teaching intervention and adjust the teaching accordingly.
   3. Create partnerships with patients and family members. Employ strategies based on the patient/family goals and preferences to foster self-management.           
   4. Incorporate knowledge of current clinical practices/technologies to maximize patient’s and family’s ability to be involved in care and care decisions.
   5. Use multiple sources of materials, including computer technology and other innovative methodologies to support patient and family learning efforts.
   6. Communicate teaching/learning activities (particularly difficult learning situations and high-risk needs) and patient/family response to multiple disciplines across settings. Utilize appropriate documentation tools to ensure effective communication.
   7. Provide support as needed to interdisciplinary colleagues who are providing and/or reinforcing patient/family education through regular interactions with staff on units, in clinics, and in other departments.
2. Employ clinical practices that are evidence-based.
   1. Evaluate and implement current evidence related to patient and family education programs and health literacy.
   2. Contribute to nursing practice through publication and/or presentations.
   3. Promote inquiry by stimulating and encouraging staff members to ask questions and investigate evidence-based practices.
3. Provide support for education through mentorship and guidance to nursing staff and nursing students as needed.
   1. Utilize appropriate educational theories/practices to promote professional and individual growth.
   2. Identify learning needs of individuals, groups for orientation, in-service, continuing education, and community.
   3. Create materials to meet the learning needs of individuals and groups for orientation, in-service and continuing education.
   4. Collaborate with interdisciplinary colleagues to support the community with education and workshops.