Job Description

Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Patient Coordinator is a clinical expert registered nurse who applies clinical expertise in evidence-based practice. Applies concepts derived from management and communication theory, group dynamics and clinical judgment to implement the VAD program. Integrates care with multidisciplinary team (within the hospital, practice and in the community) to facilitate VAD patient care from pre implant thru discharge of care.

Clinical Expert/Consultant Demonstrates or supports implementations of nursing process for VAD/HF patients. Recognized advisor sought out for clinical expertise related to VAD/HF.

1. Educator Evaluates competency of clinical staff (inside and outside of the hospital), patients, family members, physicians, and community health resources related to the care of patients with VAD’s.
2. Researcher Functions as Study Coordinator or Co-Investigator for national investigational studies related to VAD and HF conducted at TCH. Utilizes and communicates applicable research to improve practice.
3. Case Manager Functions as case manager for all VAD patients from time of referral to implant through discharge with ongoing case management thereafter.
4. VAD Patient Care Manager Manages equipment, supplies, policies and procedures related to the VAD Program as assigned.
5. Customer Satisfaction Actively promotes improved relationships between patients, nursing staff, internal and external customers resulting in improved customer satisfaction.
6. Leader Demonstrates professional contribution to and collaboration with the interdisciplinary team and Program Manager. Excellent communication and computer skills required.
7. Safety Adheres to all policies and procedures; makes sound decisions and demonstrates ability to handle situations not covered by written or verbal instructions.

Interview and screens patients prior to and during clinic appointments within scope of practice. Complete clinical evaluation of potential candidates for percutaneous valve implantation; provide preoperative patient and family education; collaborate with Patient Financial Representatives regarding insurance coverage

Provide post operative education to patient and family; serve as primary resource when discharged for clinical and technical support (on call 24/7)

Provide support and education, via phone or hands-on, to nursing staff and other health professionals regarding patient care, its implications for the patient.

Maintains a data base to provide reports to medical teams, TCH, and others as requested. Actively participate in local and national meetings to exchange knowledge and information in the area of cardiac surgery including valve replacement techniques

Collect data required by the hospital, the FDA, and other regulatory bodies related to implanted devices and submit to the appropriate agency(ies).

Coordinate list for implantation and changes of status, including forms completion and computer entry.

Coordinate readmissions for patients having difficulties that require inpatient management.

Develop and integrate new matrices and their implementation into existing practices for the PV Program and develop Policies and Procedure with the medical director oversight.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

Please describe any specialized knowledge or skills, which are REQUIRED to perform the position duties. Do not personalize the job description, credentials, or knowledge and skills based on the current associate. List any special education required for this position.

EDUCATION:

BSN degree with recent VAD experience will be considered. Minimally require a BSN degree.

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:

Two years of recent clinical nursing experience as a Registered Nurse including two years in cardiology or cardiac surgery. Acute care experience (critical care/transplantation/VAD/HF experience) is preferred.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

Knowledge of computers and regulatory agency reporting requirements. Previous experience in developing education materials and providing education to various populations, both patient and professional. Excellent communication skills. Demonstrates and models compassionate behavior to patients, staff, and the community.

LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS:

RN licensed in the State of Ohio required. Must hold or be able to obtain and maintain BLS and ACLS certifications. List any certifications and licenses required to perform this position.