Clinical Nurse Specialist

POSITION OVERVIEW
At Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital, the Clinical Nurse Specialist for Wound Care plays a pivotal role in delivering high-quality, integrated patient care for individuals facing complex health challenges across various care environments. This position serves as a vital clinical resource and advisor for both acute and rehabilitative care, focusing on patients with specific disorders affecting the gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and integumentary systems.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the management of wounds, ostomies, fistulas, dermal ulcers, tubes, and continence disorders. The Clinical Nurse Specialist oversees the development and implementation of wound treatment plans while actively participating in quality improvement initiatives. This role requires a thorough understanding of hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.

As a nursing expert, the Clinical Nurse Specialist integrates advanced knowledge of pathophysiology and patient responses to health issues, enabling effective assessment, planning, coordination, and evaluation of patient care outcomes. This position necessitates the ability to interpret data reflective of the patient's condition and to address age-specific needs effectively.

The Clinical Nurse Specialist is an integral member of the collaborative healthcare team.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsibilities categorized as essential functions (EF) include:

PEOPLE - 30%

Act as a clinical consultant for specialty care delivery, collaborating with staff, management, patients, and families. Identify opportunities for professional development among colleagues and provide coaching to achieve identified objectives.

Serve as a role model, guiding staff in effective communication regarding the needs of patients with wounds, ostomies, and continence issues. (EF)
Utilize the nursing process to direct care for patients with specialized needs, making informed recommendations based on patient status and safety. (EF)

Facilitate interprofessional collaboration to ensure patient safety and address clinical concerns raised by physicians. (EF)

SERVICE - 25%
Exemplify patient and family-centered care standards as outlined in the Houston Methodist Professional Nursing Practice document.

Act as an advocate for patients, coordinating the interprofessional team to provide holistic, goal-oriented care that addresses physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs. Ensure practices align with principles of cultural diversity and inclusion. (EF)

Develop and implement effective patient education strategies tailored to individual learning needs, utilizing appropriate resources and planning for post-discharge care. Continuously assess patient understanding and adapt teaching methods as necessary. (EF)

QUALITY/SAFETY - 20%

Model nursing care standards as defined in the Houston Methodist Professional Nursing Practice document.

Engage in the development, implementation, and evaluation of nursing care standards that impact practice in assigned specialty areas. (EF)

Utilize expertise in skin integrity and wound care to establish and update care standards, ensuring appropriate clinical outcomes through diligent documentation in electronic medical records. (EF)

Oversee the Pressure Injury Prevalence surveillance in collaboration with Quality and Patient Safety, developing actionable plans based on findings. (EF)

FINANCE - 15%
Demonstrate effective time management and prioritization of patient referrals and treatments. (EF)

Contribute insights on wound care products and equipment, balancing quality patient care with cost considerations. Ensure resource utilization aligns with patient care efficacy. (EF)
Drive efficiency and quality improvements while managing the program within established timeframes and budget constraints. (EF)

GROWTH/INNOVATION - 10%
Propose and implement new programs, projects, or nursing research initiatives.

Encourage innovative solutions to enhance patient care and operational efficiency, leading or participating in hospital projects and shared governance activities. (EF)
Identify opportunities for practice enhancements and performance improvements, integrating evidence-based practices with input from shared governance and leadership. Support change initiatives and adapt to evolving circumstances. (EF)

Continuously expand nursing knowledge and update the individual development plan (IDP). Mentor staff to enhance their skills and competencies, serving as a clinical resource. Develop and share educational resources aimed at improving quality and professional practice. Participate in training new graduates and orientees, serving as a role model. (EF)

This job description is not exhaustive; the employee may also perform other related duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to modify job duties and responsibilities as necessary.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor's degree in Nursing from an accredited institution
Master's degree preferred

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Minimum of two years of clinical nursing experience in a specialty or related field

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, AND REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED
Valid Texas RN license or temporary TX RN license, with a permanent license to be obtained within 90 days. Compact license acceptable per current Board of Nursing regulations.
American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
American Nursing Credentialing Center (ANCC)-recognized Wound and Ostomy certification or related area within six months of eligibility.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

Demonstrate the necessary skills and competencies to perform assigned duties safely, as determined through ongoing assessments and evaluations.

Proficient in English, with the ability to communicate effectively with patients, physicians, families, and colleagues, emphasizing customer service and positive language principles.

Exhibit knowledge of growth and development principles across the lifespan, along with strong listening skills.

Ability to work independently, analyze complex situations, and solve problems effectively.

Demonstrate capability in managing intricate clinical and interpersonal scenarios.

Maintain membership in a professional Wound/Ostomy organization.

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Work Attire

Yes/No

Uniform

No

Scrubs

Yes

Business professional

No

Other (department approved)

Yes
On-Call*Yes, on a limited basis (for exempt positions only)
*Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (e.g., disasters, severe weather events) regardless of selection above.

Travel**May require travel within

Yes

Houston Metropolitan area
May require travel outside

No

of Houston Metropolitan area
**Travel specifications may vary by department.

Please note any other special considerations for this position: ______________________

Candidates who express interest through a third-party quick apply process are not considered formal applicants until a complete application is submitted on our career site. We will review your interest but recommend applying directly.

Company Overview:

Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital is dedicated to advancing healthcare in Clear Lake and surrounding areas by upholding the Houston Methodist standard of exceptional safety, quality, service, and innovation.

Houston Methodist Clear Lake offers a comprehensive range of adult and pediatric medical and surgical services. It is recognized as an accredited chest pain center and acute stroke-ready facility through DNV.

Our hospital provides advanced inpatient and outpatient services, including state-of-the-art imaging, a childbirth center with a level II neonatal intensive care unit, minimally invasive surgery, cancer care, neurology and spine services, heart and vascular care, bariatric and digestive health, emergency services, primary care, rehabilitation, and comprehensive orthopedic and sports medicine.

Houston Methodist is an equal opportunity employer, inclusive of women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Houston Methodist is committed to equal employment opportunities and will not engage in discrimination or harassment against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics under the law.
VEVRAA Federal Contractor – priority referral for protected veterans requested.

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