Public Health Nurse, Tuberculosis & Communicable Disease

Under the general direction of the Epidemiology Supervisor, this employee will work as the agency’s primary overseer of the Lorain County Tuberculosis Control Unit. Additional duties will include assisting the daily operations of the LCPH epidemiology department concerning other communicable diseases.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

TB Control Unit (70%)

• Case management of patients with confirmed or suspected tuberculosis diagnosis. This function includes working closely with healthcare providers to ensure prompt and comprehensive treatment.


• Document and ensure patient medication adherence. Monitor for and document any adverse reactions to the medications.


• Contribute to local prevention and control of TB through timely contact investigation for any infectious tuberculosis patient reported in Lorain County.


• Work with clinical facilities and radiology services to ensure contacts of cases are tested and treated (if necessary).


• Work with the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) to ensure completeness of patient records and laboratory results within the Ohio Disease Reporting System (ODRS).


• Function as the primary advisor for affected individuals, families, community members, and local health care facilities concerning TB isolation measures and control activities.


• Work with a data manager to implement quality assurance actions that support planning and program development.


• Communicate relevant surveillance or case study findings to LCPH leadership.

Epidemiology Department Support (25%)

• Assist agency epidemiologists with the management of reportable infectious conditions within the Ohio Disease Reporting System (ODRS).


• Build and maintain a knowledge of current/common infectious diseases along with their control measures.


• Provide training and technical assistance to local stakeholders (particularly Long-term Care Facilities) regarding outbreak detection and control measures.


• Work with LCPH epidemiologists to grow local networks and collaboration concerning infection prevention and control.

 Other (5%)

·       Participate in relevant continuous nursing education and trainings.

·       Other duties as assigned.

MAJOR WORK CHARACTERISTICS

Ability to:

• Work with others


• Communicate with the general public


• Adhere to protocols concerning proper usage of Personal Protective Equipment (fit testing will be provided)


• Maintain professional boundaries while working with vulnerable populations


• Understand cultural sensitivities


• Maintain HIPPA compliance


• Anticipate problems and problem-solve


• Demonstrate basic computer skills


• Dress appropriately


• Arrive to work on time

REQUIREMENTS: Must possess a current license as a Registered Nurse from the Ohio Board of Nursing, pursuant to Chapter 4723 of the Ohio Revised Code.  Preference may be given to candidates that hold a bachelor or graduate degree from an accredited institution.  Candidate must have a valid Ohio driver’s license with ongoing proof of auto insurance and be able to travel with reliable transportation.  Current CPR certification. Able to lift up to 40 pounds. Proof of up-to-date vaccinations for healthcare providers or in process of completion.  Spanish speaking preferred.

UNUSUAL WORKING CONDITIONS   

Requires county-wide travel, and may require entry into patient homes.

WORK SCHEDULE

This is a full-time (40 hours/5 days per week) position with usual hours M-F 8:00am – 4:30pm, with occasional evenings and weekends. Observation of patient medication adherence on the weekends will be necessary for specific TB cases. This may be able to be performed with video technology where feasible.

COMPENSATION: Benefits include medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. Public Employee’s retirement System of Ohio.  Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave. Tuition reimbursement is available.