The Program Nurse functions in a direct care nursing capacity and consults with other clinicians regarding health promotion and maintenance, medication administration, and acute and chronic medical / psychiatric crisis management for persons served with Developmental Disabilities. Acts as the Health Care Supervisor and adheres to MassHealth regulations overseeing the direct and indirect nursing care for members in Day Hab. Follows Policies and Procedures as outlined by Vinfen in supporting MassHealth regulations, CARF standards, and Vinfen expectations.

• Administers medication and medical intervention to members. 
• Participates in interdisciplinary team reviews 
• Obtains physicians’ signatures for participation and approval at the Day Hab.
• Promotes values for members, their support team, and staff.
• Documents any changes in members’ health status in reviews as scheduled or more frequently, if needed.
• Advises management team and other staff of any medical problems that may hinder a member’s progress or may be aggravated by activities or groups provided by the Day Hab staff.
• Coordinates communication/services with day program staff, PCP, guardian, family, and residences when there are changes in a participant’s medical status.
• Obtains and maintains required physician orders and other health related documentation, as required by Vinfen and MassHealth regulations. 
• Collaborates with Vinfen Nurse Liaison for issues pertaining to the members supported by both residential and day hab services. 
• Completes Admission Summary at intake, Nursing Assessment & Plan of Care of Persons served,
and monthly nursing summaries with regard to medical and psychiatric conditions. 
• For new members, provides relevant education and training to Day Hab staff regarding medical and other health related issues for members. Provides education, consultation, and training to staff and members regarding changes in health status, health promotion, hygiene, and maintenance. 
• Reviews referral information and provides input on perspective members. 
• Works as a liaison between program and community health care providers to promote access to community resources, quality urgent, and routine medical/dental care. Prepares information as needed for medical appointments related to medical care management for members during a pandemic, state of emergency, or natural disaster. 
• Demonstrates best nursing practices and meets state requirement of continuing education to maintain RN licensure and certifications. 
• Maintains current knowledge base of human service issues and trends as related to medical, habilitative, and psychiatric issues. 
• Provides direct nursing care to members and assists in health care services provided to members while in day hab service.
• Supports staff in crisis management, using Positive Behavior Support (PBS) and Safety Care.
• Supervises any other nursing staff on site, if applicable.
• Provides assistance and support to other Vinfen Day Hab programs, as needed. 
• Maintains updated resume on site.
• Perform other related duties, as assigned. 

Knowledge and Skills:
• Knowledge of Human Services
• Knowledge of documentation requirements: DHSP, Interim DSHP, nursing assessment, written goals, objectives, Provider Support Strategies, data sheets, and letters of medical necessity
• Knowledge and use of different communication, augmentation methods used, and learning styles 
• Knowledge of computer applications and equipment 
• Knowledge of Code of Ethics 
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing 
• Ability to make independent judgments and decisions 
• Knowledge of relevant policies and procedures 
• Knowledge of Best Practices in Nursing 
• Ability to work in a professional and confidential capacity 
• Sensitivity to cultural, religious, racial, disability, and gender issues 
• Knowledge and use of advocacy techniques 
• Participatory skills, collaborative skills 
• Knowledge of human, legal, civil rights, community, and other resources 
• Knowledge of available equipment, therapies, and service providers 
• Knowledge of empowerment and self advocacy techniques 
• Knowledge of required independent living skills 
• Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques 
• Ability to develop and conduct training programs 
• Organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively 
• Knowledge of time management skills

Established in 1977, Vinfen is a nonprofit, health and human services organization and a leading provider of community-based services to individuals with mental health conditions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and behavioral health challenges. Our services and advocacy promote the recovery, resiliency, habilitation, and self-determination of the people we serve. Vinfen's 3,200 dedicated employees are experienced, highly-trained professionals who provide a full range of supportive living, health, educational, and clinical services in 318 programs throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. For more information about Vinfen, please visit www.vinfen.org/careers

My Vinfen. My Community. My Job.

Vinfen is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Typical Requirements: 

One year of relevant experience.

Preferred /Required Education:

An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing is required.

Driving Requirements:

May be called on to drive for Vinfen using either a Vinfen van or personal vehicle. A valid driver’s license must be presented at the time of employment. Incumbents must be at least 21 years of age, have maintained a valid US driver’s license for at least one year, and must be able to pass a driver’s screening background check, which is subject to annual checks. If driving, must maintain a safe driving record. If using a personal vehicle, must possess and maintain adequate insurance

Physical Effort:
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, climb as this is a very physically active position. Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or the use of a two-person lift. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment such as a calculator, copier, and printer. Ability to sit, reach, climb stairs, and maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways. Ability to assist clients with tasks of daily living. Ability to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time as needed. Ability to bend, reach, file, sit, stand, and move around the facility. Ability to speak, hear, and communicate with clients, staff, and external representatives. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision,
distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. For positions in day programs or group residences, the ability to assist in routine living activities including cleaning, meal preparation, vacuuming, shoveling, and grocery shopping.

Required Certifications:
CPR is required within two weeks of hire
Safety Care required within 90 days of hire

NET required 

Required Credentials/Licenses:

LPN in state of service required.