University of Utah Job Description
Job Summary
This position has responsibility for the development and administration of population specific education for patients and staff. The nurse educator works in collaboration with Clinical Staff Education (CSE) and their unit leadership to develop an annual nursing education plan and competencies. The Nurse Educator coordinates, facilitates and/or teaches unit / specialty classes and is responsible to maintain unit education records and oversee staff education files. The nurse educator also acts as a catalyst for change and adapts to change in a positive and professional manner. The nurse educator understands and promotes University Health Care Mission, Vision, Values, and Initiatives. They exemplify and role model the Exceptional Patient Experience culture.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Nursing required (for internal candidates, must begin a BSN program within 2 years.) and current license of practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Utah plus two years of clinical experience is required or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience). Demonstrated clinical competence in defined areas and department standards; demonstrated interpersonal skills as well as the ability to speak effectively before groups and/or teach classes and a demonstrated proficiency in relevant software applications and the ability to teach and support the instruction of the organization’s electronic medical record and other clinical computer programs are also required.
Basic Life Support Health Care Provider Certification is required within 30 days of hire. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and/or Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Instructor certifications are required for some service units.
Masters degree in nursing, education or related field preferred; Trainer certification or equivalent preferred at hire or obtained within one year of hire.
This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated vaccination requirements, or be approved for an exemption, prior to the first day of work. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards and hospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Disclaimer
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
Essential Functions
1. Develops and administers nursing orientation for defined areas and provides ongoing support as a mentor for newly hired staff.
2. Evaluates effectiveness of education programs and outcomes. Information is used to change or update education programs.
3. Provides nursing staff with support in their role as patient and family educators.
4. Maintains strong clinical presence on the units(s) and clinical competence by working side by side with new orientees, preceptors, charge nurses and staff and/or bedside care.
5. Takes an active role as the lead preceptor for the unit. Assesses knowledge, skills, and competency and provides support for unit preceptors.
6. Assesses ongoing needs of staff. Based on needs, develops and maintains unit clinical competencies, skills and knowledge in collaboration with unit leadership and Clinical Staff Education.
7. Maintains accurate and timely education records.
8. Maintains and models clinical and professional expertise by being conversant with current literature and practice. Develops productive and collegial relationships with other clinicians, educators, quality and leadership.
9. Participates in Clinical Education Committee including facilitating and communicating education information to defined areas of responsibility. Takes an active role in housewide education programs such as Clinical Orientation, Preceptor Workshop, etc.
10. Serves as Nursing Student Intern (NSI) Coordinator, Nurse Residency Mentor and collaborates with the Student Placement Coordinator for placement of nursing students in areas of responsibility.
Problem Solving
This position has the authority to identify unit or individual learning deficiencies and develop an appropriate plan of action to support the unit’s educational needs within budgetary and staffing limitations. The incumbent functions under the direction of Clinical Staff Education and in collaboration with unit leadership.
Major challenges for the incumbent include assessing needs and guiding the educational programs for the nursing unit(s).
Comments
Typical work hours fall between 7 am and 6 pm, however, incumbent may be required to work irregular hours or shifts including nights and weekends to accommodate specific learner or project schedules. The normal work week is 40 hours, typically working no less than 4 days/week.
The staff member must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his or her assigned unit. The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development and the ability to assess data regarding the patient's status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual.
