MAIN FUNCTION

The Nursing Professional Development Specialist (NPDS)/Co-Primary Instructor, here on as referred to as the NPDS/Co-Primary Instructor, is responsible for assessment, planning, implementing, and evaluating clinical education processes in defined specialty areas. They will ensure curriculum is current and accurate and will teach at least 51% of the program.  Adult learning theories are utilized when formulating and implementing educational programs/activities for staff. The NPDS/Co-Primary Instructor acts as a consultant and change agent in the development of standards of care for clinical practice; utilizes and applies change theory in matters related to clinical practice; applies interpersonal skills and fosters communication when interacting with staff, patients, and other members of the healthcare organization.  NPDS/Co-Primary Instructor is self motivated in identifying own learning needs, strengths and limitations; and seeks to improve, as needed.  NPDS/Co-Primary Instructor is not administratively responsible for the supervision of other people but works collaboratively with Nurse Managers to assure that standards of clinical practice are met.  This role will serve as a Co-Primary Instructor to the Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) in support of and in the absence of The Nursing Professional Development Specialist/ Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) Coordinator & Primary Instructor (see job description for this position).   This role will supervise the clinical practice of learners in the training program in the long-term care and acute settings (for Care Partner trainees).  It will occasionally provide Nursing Professional Development support for Robert Packer Hospital Sayre and Towanda Campuses, as Required by the Director for Nursing Professional Development. 

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

The NPDS/Co-Primary Instructor must have a current licensure by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as Registered Professional Nurse without limitations.  A bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited program is preferred.  Certification in an area of specialty or Nursing Professional Development is required as soon as eligible.  Possess a Train the Educator (TTE) certificate and CHRI acceptable in accordance with P.L. 169 of 1997 and approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.  Must maintain BLS certification.

EXPERIENCE

A minimum of two years clinical experience and demonstrated abilities in teaching, leadership skills, and clinical nursing practice.  One of these years must be in the long-term care setting and for a minimum of 2000 hours of nursing service.  Clinical nursing practice includes direct care, supervision, or education in meeting resident’s psychosocial, behavioral, cognitive and physical needs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

   

A.        Instructing in the NATCEP (per the PA Dept of Education requirements)

Review curriculum at least annually and revise as needed to keep current   Ensure quizzes, tests and all instructional materials are relevant to the curriculum  Assists with resolving student and staff issues  Teach at least 51% of the total program hours  Provide guidance to Assistant Instructors and Resource Instructors to ensure the program objectives are met  Provide remedial assistance to students as needed  Performs other duties as assigned  Participates in the compliance review process conducted by PDE  Plan, develop, and provide the educational curriculum for the Nurse Aide Training Program to meet federal and state requirements  Provide leadership in formulating goals and objectives of the Nurse Aide Training Program  Strives to remain current in professional practice  Assists in interviewing and enrolling students 

B.  Orientation/Onboarding

Participates in the assessment, maintenance and development of staff competencies on initial employee hire. Supports the Newly Licensed Registered Nurse Residency program (Transition to Practice) including preparation of preceptors, goal-setting, and on-going evaluation.

C.   Competency Management

Participates in the assessment, maintenance and development of ongoing staff competencies Conducts or coordinates in-services for new products and equipment

D.   Education

Supports the Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) training. Assists in appropriate multidisciplinary education within the system by being a planner of and/or participant in professional programs. Represents Nursing Professional Development at the organizational and system level on committees/teams requiring education of nursing staff.  Collaborates with other educators across the system to develop appropriate education. Assists with conducting in-service and continuing education programs for the nursing department.

E.   Professional Role Development

Implements and supports the Nursing Department philosophy and objectives.  Encourages development of leadership skills in members of the nursing staff. Provides clinical expertise for administrative decision making. Utilizes principles of change theory to effect smooth processes of change. Serves as a role model for professional communication skills during interactions with other health team members.

F.  Research/Evidence Based Practice/Quality Improvement

Keeps informed of current nursing practice advancements and research findings and provides for dissemination of research developments. Advances nursing practice through evidence-based practice.

G.   Collaborative Partnerships

Collaborates with Affiliating Agencies to coordinate learning experiences for Student Nurse learners.

OTHER

It is understood that this description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and that other duties may be assigned as necessary in the performance of this position. Encouraged to participate in community activities. Is authorized to access medications and storage areas in the performance of essential job functions and duties. There is an occasional travel requirement for this role.  Primary responsibilities are at Robert Packer Hospital-Towanda Campus, but there is an expectation for time on the Sayre Campus.