In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority (Island Health) patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

The Nurse Practitioner is responsible and accountable for the comprehensive assessment of patients/clients/residents including diagnosing diseases, disorders and conditions. The Nurse practitioner initiates treatment including health care management, therapeutic interventions and prescribes medications in accordance with the statutory and regulatory standards, limits and conditions, policy and guidelines. The Nurse Practitioner provides professional guidance to other health professionals and practices autonomously and interdependently within the context of an interdisciplinary health care team, making referrals to physicians and others as appropriate.

This position collaborates with patients/clients/residents and other members of the interdisciplinary team to identify and asses trends and patterns that have implications for patients/clients/residents, families and communities; develops and implement population and evidence based strategies to improve health and participates in policy-making activities that influence health services and practices. The position participates in peer review and self review to evaluate the outcome of services at the patient/client/resident, community and population level.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Training And Experience

Registration with BC College of Nurses and Midwives as a practicing NP registrant; successful completion of the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) and two (2) years of recent, relevant clinical nursing experience.

Skills And Abilities

• Ability to communicate and collaborate with patients/clients/residents and families about health findings, diagnosis, treatment, self-care and prognosis.
• Ability to collaborate, consult with and formally refer patients/clients/residents to physicians and other health professionals when appropriate.
• Ability to critically assess and evaluate health research literature to determine best practices ability to introduce education and evidence based research.
• Ability to assess and recognize population health trends ability to plan and implement strategies for population based prevention and health promotion.
• Ability to implement and evaluate planned change.
• Ability to supervise other and evaluate the care they deliver.
• Ability to lead a team and work within a team.
• Ability to self-direct, interact, and adapt effectively with other professionals in complex, dynamic situations.
• Ability to transfer knowledge, teach, coach and mentor others.
• Ability to identify and respond appropriately to legal and ethical issues that may arise in patient/client/resident care.
• Ability to self-assess performance an assume responsibility and accountability for own professional development, educational or consultative assistance when appropriate.
• Physical ability carry out the duties of the position.

Additional information for applicants

Nurse Practitioner(s) will provide inpatient care for unattached patients admitted to the hospital as part of the unattached inpatient medical team [hospitalist like service]. The NP will then follow these unattached patients and provide care in the LTC that the patient is matched to (within the central Duncan area, such as Sunridge, Cerwydden, Cairnsmore, Acaciq Ty Mawr - Shawnigan Lake, The Hamlets). The NPs will work within a collegial group of family physicians and specialists and be well integrated into the interdisciplinary team. Unattached patients presenting to CDH Emergency Room requiring admission will be seen initially by a family physician for admission assessment. The admitting physician will transfer care to the NP based on acuity of patient and current NP case load. Orientation and mentorship will be provided through Island Health NP leadership, the CDH team, the Cowichan Primary Care Network as well as from the Island Health LTC medical lead.