Busy privately own dermatology practice is looking for a Wound Care Nurse Practitioner to play a vital role in our dermatology clinic by providing expert assessment, treatment, and management of various types of wounds. This role requires a skilled and compassionate healthcare professional who can contribute to delivering high-quality care to patients with acute and chronic wounds. The Wound Care Nurse Practitioner will collaborate closely with dermatologists and other healthcare team members to ensure optimal patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Conducts thorough assessments of patients' wounds, considering factors such as wound type, size, depth, location, and underlying causes.
- Evaluates the overall health status of patients to identify any underlying medical conditions that may affect wound healing.
- Develops comprehensive, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to individual patients' wound care needs.
- Selects appropriate wound dressings, therapies, and interventions to promote effective wound healing and minimize infection risk.
- Performs wound cleaning, debridement, and other specialized wound care procedures.
- Administers topical treatments and medications as prescribed.
- Monitors patients' responses to treatments and makes necessary adjustments to the plan as needed.
- Educates patients and their caregivers on proper wound care techniques, including dressing changes, hygiene, and signs of infection.
- Provides guidance on lifestyle modifications and nutrition to support optimal wound healing.
- Collaborates with dermatologists and other healthcare team members to ensure coordinated and integrated care for patients.
- Participates in multidisciplinary rounds and case discussions to contribute wound care expertise.
- Maintains accurate and detailed electronic medical records of patients' wound assessments, treatments, and progress.
- Documents patient education and communication to facilitate continuity of care.
- Stays current with the latest advancements in wound care and dermatology through continuing education and professional development.
- Contributes to quality improvement initiatives within the clinic to enhance patient care processes and outcomes.
Requirements
- Master's or Doctorate degree in Nursing (MSN or DNP)
- Valid Nurse Practitioner (NP) license in Oregon
- Minimum of 5 years of clinical experience as a Nurse Practitioner, with a substantial portion focused on wound care management.
- Proficiency in wound assessment techniques, including the ability to accurately identify wound characteristics, stages, and signs of infection.
- Experience in various wound care interventions such as wound cleansing, debridement, application of advanced dressings, and management of surgical wounds.
- Ability to perform minor surgical procedures related to wound care, such as suture removal, staple removal, and wound closure.
- In-depth understanding of dermatological conditions and their implications on wound healing.
- Familiarity with different wound care products, devices, and technologies.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with dermatologists, nurses, medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills for explaining complex wound care concepts to patients and their families.
- Compassion and empathy in working with patients who may be experiencing pain and discomfort due to their wounds.
- Commitment to providing patient-centered care and involving patients in their own wound care management.