Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner

Description

JOB SUMMARY :

Responsible for the delivery of patient care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosing, planning, implementation and evaluation of the person who has experienced sexual violence. Provides timely medical forensic examination of the person who has experienced sexual violence with authorization of a law enforcement agency and adult or child protective services or upon patient request (if non-reporting parameters are met) for sexual assault patients. Collaborates with other professional disciplines to ensure effective and efficient patient care delivery and the achievement of desired patient outcomes. Utilizes knowledge of patient's age and cultural diversity in the provision of patient care. Contributes to the provision of quality nursing care through performance improvement techniques that demonstrate positive outcomes in patient care.

QUALIFICATIONS :

JOB SPECIFIC CORE COMPETENCIES:

Demonstrates ability to interact with patients of all ages. Provides assessment and reassessment of patients along with proper communication of findings and recommendations. Provides holistic and patient-centered care in a safe environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

Delivers nursing care according to the standards of care defined within the American Nurses' Association (ANA) Standards of Clinical Practice and Code of Nurses and the Indiana Nurse Practice Act. Performs a comprehensive medical forensic examination for the patient who has been sexually assaulted which would include a medical history and collection of forensic evidence as well as screening for non-fatal strangulation and human trafficking. The Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Exam process includes, but is not limited to: History from the patient and physical examination. Head to toe assessment looking for trauma. Screening for non-fatal strangulation. Screening for human trafficking. Detailed ano-genital examination looking for trauma. Evaluation for collection of forensic evidence. Treatment per medical protocol and referral for follow-up medical care and counseling. Knowledge of the use of the sexual assault medical forensic kit and maintenance of chain of custody of evidence, as per protocol and also as indicated by the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG) policies and procedures. Performs within guidelines as set forth in the Indiana Association of Forensic Nursing Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program policies and procedures. Provides illustrated and photographic documentation of injuries of all sexual assault patients and non-fatal strangulation patients and all other forms as is deemed necessary. Provides non-judgmental evidence collection to alleged perpetrators of sexual assault utilizing a search warrant provided by law enforcement. Acquires and maintains current knowledge in nursing practice. Participates in ongoing educational activities related to clinical knowledge and professional issues. Seeks experiences to maintain clinical skills Seeks knowledge and skills appropriate to the practice setting. Serves as a preceptor for new SANE candidates for sexual assault patients. Makes decisions and actions on behalf of sexual assault patients in an ethical manner. Supports the organization's vision and mission. Participates in ongoing legal process and court appearances, as required. Participates in ongoing patient care review process and attends multidisciplinary team meetings. Formulates and implements discharge plan in coordination with the multidisciplinary agencies and provides appropriate referral resources. Demonstrates sound clinical professional judgment and maintains a high standard of personal credibility and accountability. Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability to change. Performs other duties as assigned.

EXPECTED BEHAVIORS :

Attitude/Customer Competencies

Caring, compassionate, and approachable in all customer contacts Privacy - respects customers' right to privacy and modesty Confidentiality - maintains customers' confidentiality Telephone etiquette - speaks so that customers hear a smile Appearance - takes personal ownership in appearance and that of work environment Initiative - takes necessary steps to fix problems immediately Providing Direction and Customer Acknowledgment - provides personalized attention by being courteous, friendly, and helpful when responding to customers' needs Timely service - recognizes that customers' time is very valuable; provides them with prompt service Customer information/education - provides customers with the best information needed to make informed choices

Relationship Competencies/Work Group Competencies

Demonstrates advocacy, respect and truth telling Demonstrates accountability for own actions Demonstrates ability to respectfully address interpersonal conflicts Takes initiative to help others Demonstrates a learning attitude toward solving problems Demonstrates openness to change and new learning Reports to work on time and has regular attendance Adheres to practice defined dress code Attends Staff meetings

Ethical Decision-Making

Respects the needs, expectations and rights of all individuals Advocates the rights of all to a safe environment Uses sensitivity to cultural diversity to guide decision-making

Performance Improvement

Identifies work processes and strives to reduce cost and increase satisfaction Identifies customers and demonstrates understanding of customers' expectations Actively works to increase satisfaction of all Monitors customers' satisfaction Takes active role in department process improvement efforts; demonstrates understanding of outcomes Demonstrates an understanding of responsibilities Demonstrates diagnostic thinking/reasoning Utilizes feedback from peers, supervisor, customers to drive performance and behaviors Position Requirements

CERTIFICATION/LICENSE :

Registered Nurse (RN)

ADDITIONAL LICENSURE/CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Graduate of an accredited school of nursing Current Registered Nurse license with the state of Indiana. Basic Life Support certification. Other certifications as required by assigned area of work (i.e., ACLS, PALS).

ADDITIONAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Mandatory Annual Continuing Education: Customer Service, Fire and Safety, Confidentiality-HIPAA, Infection Control, Corporate Compliance. Annual Unit Specific Competencies, and all education required by regulatory, accreditation bodies and/or Hancock Regional Hospital.

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