Lead RN Infectious Disease

Job Overview:

The Infectious Disease Lead RN at a Recovery Network of Programs plays a key role in promoting the health and safety of individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorder by identifying, preventing, and managing infectious diseases. This position requires expertise in both infectious disease management and addiction treatment, as the nurse collaborates closely with individuals receiving OUD and AUD treatment. This position will provide education, screening, and support for conditions like HIV, Hepatitis C, tuberculosis, and other bloodborne diseases in addition to providing support to RNP nursing departments.

Part time 24 hours, weekly.  Hours are flexible 

Key Responsibilities:

Infectious Disease Screening and Assessment:

• • Conduct screenings for common infectious diseases, such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Perform health assessments to identify potential risks for infectious disease transmission.
  • Administer diagnostic tests and interpret results with the assistance of the program’s medical providers for clients, including blood tests for infectious diseases and screening for tuberculosis. This position will assist with reviewing urine and oral swab lab results for all clients and report results to the client’s corresponding counselor.

Education and Counseling:

• • Provide education to clients on the prevention and management of infectious diseases, Harm reduction including needle safety, sexual health, and general hygiene.
  • Counsel clients on the importance of regular health screenings, follow-up care, and adherence to treatment protocols for any diagnosed conditions.
  • Educate clients on safe medication administration techniques to reduce risk of infections.

Infectious Disease Management:

• • Collaborate with the clinic’s medical care team to develop and implement treatment plans for clients diagnosed with infectious diseases.
  • Monitor and manage clients with chronic infectious diseases like Hepatitis C, ensuring they receive the appropriate follow-up care, treatments, and referrals to specialists if needed.

Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Team:

• • Collaborate closely with physicians, counselors, Ryan White and addiction specialists to provide integrated care for clients.
  • Collaborate effectively with the relevant laboratory to ensure timely supply requests, follow up on lab results, and address any issues related to the laboratory's electronic health record (EHR) system.
  • Coordinate care with local health departments and specialists for more complex cases.
  • Function as a liaison between the clinic and external healthcare providers for infectious disease care and referrals.
  • Keep inventory of all medical supplies and ensure supplies and equipment are in proper, safe working conditions.
  • Assist with nursing roles and responsibilities as needed, such as providing support to dispensing, assisting with submission of medical orders.

Documentation and Reporting:

• • Maintain accurate and confidential medical records for clients, document screenings, test results, treatments, and follow-up care.