AWC Program Nurse (RN or LPN)

Under the guidance of the Program Supervisor, this position provides ongoing medical monitoring of participants in accordance with the Illinois Department on Aging (IDOA) Community Care Program for Adult Day Services.

Responsibilities

• Participant Service Delivery
  • Conducts medical and psychosocial assessments on all new participants as part of the intake process; completes annual assessments on current participants.
  • Conducts weekly well-being phone calls to participants who are not attending the program.
  • Prepares and updates participants’ plans of care semi-annually, based on IDOA’s or MCO’s plan of care and physical examinations.
  • Actively participates in participant care planning meetings in collaboration with other staff.
  • Monitors participants’ physical well-being on a daily basis.
  • Documents incidents, conversations, and meetings with participants/caregivers in Nursing Notes, Progress Notes, and the participant database.
  • Completes nurse’s notes at least monthly or as needed for each participant and secures them in participant files.
  • Completes daily rounds and documents progress associated with Participant Care Plans.
  • Monitors and records blood pressure weekly and weights monthly with the assistance of C.N.As.
  • Ensures all annual physical examinations are up-to-date.
  • Manages medication administration as authorized by physicians and maintains an updated list of participants’ current medications.
  • Documents all medication information using the program’s Daily Medication Log and ensures medications are stored securely.
  • Confirms and documents physician orders regarding medication and diet restrictions in participants’ files.
  • Notifies caregivers when medications are running low.
  • Updates Medication Logs monthly.
  • Provides consultation and assessment for participant injuries (e.g., falls, slips) and initiates EMS support as needed.
  • Contacts family members/caregivers regarding participant injuries.
  • Ensures physicals, medication lists, and emergency contact information for participants and staff are up-to-date.
  • Informs caregivers and CCU case managers of notable changes in participants’ physical health or behavior.
  • Provides health-related information and referrals to participants or family members.
  • Ensures privacy and confidentiality of all participants’ medical information.
• Program Support
  • Ensures the program’s First Aid kit is fully stocked and coordinates replacement of items after use.
  • Manages the handling, securing, and disposal of sharps and needles (e.g., Epipen, injections).
  • Serves as the liaison to external vendors for the pick-up and removal of sharps and needles.
  • Coordinates contractual/temporary nursing services to ensure appropriate coverage.
  • Monitors medical supply inventory and communicates needs to the administrative assistant.
  • Facilitates quarterly overviews of emergency procedures for staff.
  • Conducts or coordinates monthly participant workshops or staff in-service training on health-related topics.
  • May conduct program tours and prepare nursing or monthly service/activity reports as requested.
• Performance & Quality Management
  • Actively participates in the agency’s Performance Quality Improvement (PQI) process.
  • Incorporates the agency’s mission, philosophy, and core values into daily work.
  • Adheres to agency policies, procedures, and mandated reporting requirements.
  • Follows Universal Precaution and Exposure Control Plan policies, including handwashing.
  • Reports concerns regarding older adult abuse or neglect as required.
  • Reports hazardous conditions or incidents according to agency and IDOA procedures.
  • Attends staff meetings, supervision, and professional development seminars/workshops.
  • Nurtures positive and collaborative working relationships with staff and outside providers.
  • Submits personal time sheets and is accountable for daily activities.

Requirements

• Sensitivity to cultural diversity.
• Subject to drug and alcohol screening, as well as aptitude and skills testing.
• Ability to perform essential duties satisfactorily with reasonable accommodations for disabilities.

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) state credentials required.
• Prior experience working with older adults strongly preferred.
• Willingness to complete required onboarding and ongoing in-service training.
• CPR certification and active RN/LPN license required.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English required.

Skills

• Computer Literacy
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Publisher, Excel).
  • Ability to enter/retrieve data, write reports, and use web-based data sites.
• Mathematical Skills
  • College-level math skills preferred; high school-level math skills required.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.
  • Ability to complete reports and vouchers accurately and summarize statistical reports.
• Interpersonal & Professional Skills
  • Excellent interpersonal communication and professional presentation.
  • Good time management and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse populations.
  • Tact, professional composure, and diplomacy in interactions.
  • Patience and supportive demeanor when engaging with participants and caregivers.
  • Ability to travel to other locations for trainings, conferences, or events.
• Decision Making
  • Ability to work independently, exercise good judgment, and make sound decisions.
  • Discernment in identifying issues requiring supervisory attention.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to sit, talk, and hear.
• Frequently required to use hands.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs.

Work Environment

• Moderate noise level.
• Work is primarily performed in a center-based setting; not eligible for remote work.
• Personal mobile phone is not required and not eligible for reimbursement.