Poison Information Specialist

Position Summary:
The Specialist in Poison Information (SPI) will be responsible for answering calls for the Florida Poison Information Center/Miami (FPIC/Miami) located at Jackson Memorial Medical Center. These calls will be from South Florida residents and health care professionals regarding poisoning exposures, poison information, and related topics. Poison Information Specialists will then use available resources to provide treatment recommendations and/or triage to a health care facility. The will require that the SPI contribute to the poison center data collection system, provide education for both public and health professionals, and assist in research projects.

Duties & Responsibilities:
Utilizes assessment skills to focus on the exposure or possible exposure, physiological, psychosocial and environmental factors, and patient/family educational needs within an established time frame. Recognize life threatening signs and symptoms and manage appropriately. Effectively seek appropriate consultation. Obtains complete patient history regarding the exposure and obtains additional information regarding medical history of the patient. Assesses toxicity and severity of exposure accurately and promptly. Formulates a goal-directed plan of care which reflects any changing needs of the patient. Utilizes appropriate resources to develop plan of care and accurately interprets and integrates information obtained. Utilizes consultants appropriately. Utilizes appropriate references as necessary, including computerized database and formulates appropriate management of exposed or possibly exposed patient. Assigns and/or performs follow-ups at appropriate time intervals. Provides patient care based on age and developmental stage, in accordance with poison center specific guidelines. Implements plan of care based on center guidelines, clinical toxicology standards, patient care priorities and professional judgment. Demonstrates knowledge of Clinical Toxicology and knowledge of basic care of poisoned patients. Demonstrates knowledge of process of the Poison Information Center/Miami's functions and operations. Performs accurate triage of cases in a timely fashion, according to severity of exposure. Demonstrates ability to perform necessary psychomotor skills. Effectively operates computers, must be proficient in Tox Sentry call tracking system and hospital systems. Effectively operates telephone and other communication equipment (i.e. fax machine, TTY phone, etc.). Incorporates patient education in the treatment and prevention of poisoning exposures. Provides first-aid instructions and patient teaching in a calm, understandable fashion and in a language appropriate for the caller. Assess the need of caller in relation to poison prevention and provides advice and/or printed materials when appropriate. Evaluates the appropriateness of assessment and intervention by reviewing patient outcomes. Conducts ongoing evaluation/follow-up of the appropriateness of assessment and management recommendations. Takes appropriate action in response to follow-up information. Documents assessment, interventions and patient response based on plan of care. Utilizes approved documentation forms according to established guidelines. Demonstrates proficiency in using the AAPCC toxic exposure surveillance system. Appropriately manages calls from the Miami-Dade County Health Department. Collects data and develop research project for presentation at the Toxicology Annual Scientific Meeting. Review, updates poisindex information and applies to case management. Supports Mission and Vision, goals and objectives of the poison Information Center/Miami and demonstrates knowledge of new and pertinent information via discussion, communication meetings, bulletin boards, etc. Interacts effectively with physicians, patients, administration and co-workers. Communicates problems and/or concerns through established communication channels. Demonstrates and understanding of the emergency nature of the Poison Center and is away from workstation ONLY when there is adequate coverage on the phone. Maintains a positive, professional image, behavior, adequate attire (applicable dress code policies) and displays name tag prominently. Demonstrates flexibility and cooperation in meeting patient and/or poison center's needs (i.e. coverage/scheduling). Sets Mutual goals with the Directors for professional growth and development. Demonstrates familiarity with the most common toxins that may become weapons of mass destruction. Demonstrates familiarity with the most common Marine and Freshwater toxins and their treatments. Obtains certification as a Poison Information Specialist within two (2) examination administrations of initial eligibility of certification process overseen by the American Association of Poison Control Centers. Demonstrates behaviors of service excellence and CARE values (Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Expertise). Performs other related duties as assigned.

Experience:
Generally requires 1 to 3 years of related experience.

Education:
Bachelor's degree in related field is required

License Certification:
Valid Florida License required only for Nurses, Pharmacists or Physician Assistants. A current State of Florida License is not required for graduates from an accredited college/university with a degree in Medicine. Physician Assistants must also be Nationally certified (PA-C).

Knowledge Skill Abilities:
Ability to analyze, organize and prioritize work accurately while meeting multiple deadlines. Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form. Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure. Ability to understand and follow instructions. Ability to exercise sound and independent judgment Knowledge and skill in use of job appropriate technology and software applications. Strong patient care orientation, self motivation, and good interpersonal, communication, and problem solving skills, and the ability to work effectively as a team player are required. Ability to demonstrate literacy in using computerized information systems.

Physical Demands:
Job function requires extended standing or walking. Must be able to carry objects weighing 21 to 50 pounds. Able to lift or move objects weighing 51 to 100 pounds with the use of appropriate devices. Jobs in this group require frequent visual acuity to perform activities related to extended use of computers. Additional information and provision requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by the home unit/department in collaboration with the Reasonable Accommodations Committee (RAC).

Work Environment:
Jobs in this group are required to function in a fast paced environment with occasional high pressure or emergent and stressful situations. Frequent interaction with a diverse population including team members, providers, patients, insurance companies and other members of the public. Function is subject to inside environmental conditions, with occasional outdoor exposures. Exposure to various environments such as: communicable diseases, toxic substances, medicinal preparations and other conditions common to a hospital and medical office environment. May also be exposed to needle sticks, airborne infections, medical gases, X-Ray, chemical exposures and other potential hazards. Must wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when exposed to infectious/clinical hospital environment. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the described essential functions. Additional information and provision requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by the home unit/department in collaboration with the Reasonable Accommodations Committee (RAC).