Public Health Nurse

Job Description

This position performs routine public health nursing work in clinical and/or non-clinical settings based out of Alpine, Texas. It requires regular and frequent travel to the field offices located in Marfa, Presidio, Fort Stockton and other satellite sites.

The position coordinates the delivery of public health nursing services and essential public health services through the application of education, assessments, quality assurance and direct client services. It works under moderate supervision with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions

• (35%) DIRECT CLIENT SERVICES:
  • Administers medications, immunizations, testing and treatments according to regional and DSHS Standing Delegation Orders and procedures.
  • Affords and plans the delivery of direct public health services and essential public health services to individuals, families, and communities.
  • Counsels and instructs patients in meeting their health care needs.
  • Maintains patient records, program reports and patient assessments.
  • Responsible for making referrals for medical and social services with follow-up as necessary.
  • Manages pharmaceuticals, vaccine inventory and storage.
• (35%) POPULATION BASED COMMUNITY OUTREACH ACTIVITIES:
  • Explains information regarding Child Health, Maternal Health, and Perinatal Infant Health and Tobacco free information to the public through one:one education sessions, presentations and community events.
  • Plans events, attends trainings, and networks with community stakeholders and community members.
  • Assists with public health need assessments and verifies report data.
  • Supports other public health staff in communicating with agencies/individuals on the treatment, control, or prevention of diseases or injury.
• (20%) DISEASE PREVENTION/CONTROL:
  • Identifies community resources and makes referrals to health care and related services.
  • Supports the implementation and monitoring of a comprehensive case management service plan for clients and families.
  • Performs home visits independently.
  • Supports the implementation of the surveillance of communicable diseases and other health conditions, and plans interventions at the community or regional level.
  • Ensures compliance with Immunizations; Tuberculosis Control; HIV/STD, vector-Bourne diseases and prevention of vector-Bourne diseases.
• (10%) OTHER RELATED DUTIES AS ASSIGNED

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Assessments

• Knowledge of professional Nursing theory and process, including cultural, social, and economic forces in family, community and group dynamics.
• Knowledge of Texas State Board of Nursing Practice Rules and Regulations.
• Knowledge of Public Health Principles, practices, epidemiology, disease prevention and health promotion.
• Knowledge of clinic/office operations.
• Skills in assessment of clients with complex health problems.
• Skills in basic computer data input through database programs, word processing and internet.
• Ability to maintain current CPR certification.
• Ability to perform basic nursing skills.
• Ability to interact and maintain effective working relationships and collaboration with public, local officials, physicians, and local agency personnel.
• Ability to effectively communicate in verbal and written format to individuals, groups and communities.
• Ability to demonstrate independent judgment in appraising clinical situations and correctly interpret findings.
• Ability to comprehend and implement program goals, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to prioritize and demonstrate leadership.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to travel in state/personal vehicle.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications (Required)

• Current license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Texas or eligible for Texas license.
• Current Texas Class C Driver’s license required.
• Currently be certified in CPR.

Initial Screening Criteria (Required)

• Registered Nurse by the State of Texas or a state that recognizes Reciprocity through the Nurse Licensure Compact.
• Work experience in Nursing, Public Health, Case management or infectious disease experience (2) years.
• Experience in a medical clinical setting (2 years).
• Ability to travel up to 40% of the time throughout the service region and State of Texas via personal vehicle, state vehicle, rental vehicle, or commercial air travel, including overnight travel as needed to support program operations, assessments, outreach activities, training and meetings.

Additional Information

• Phone or TEAMS Video interview may be utilized.
• Valid Texas Driver’s license.
• Travel requirements and possible working hours other than 8-5 are applicable and must be able to accommodate.

ADA Accommodations

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 form.