The Treatment/Wound Care Nurse is responsible for assessing, managing, and treating wounds in residents of a skilled nursing facility (SNF). This role ensures the highest standard of wound care, collaborates with the interdisciplinary team, and educates staff and residents on best practices for skin integrity and wound healing.
Key Responsibilities:
Wound Assessment & Treatment:
Conducts thorough skin assessments and evaluates wounds, pressure ulcers, surgical sites, and other skin conditions.
Develops and implements individualized wound care plans based on physician orders and evidence-based protocols.
Performs wound dressings, debridement (if within scope of practice), and other treatments as prescribed.
Monitors wounds for signs of infection and healing progress, adjusting treatment plans as needed.
Documentation & Compliance:
Accurately documents wound care assessments, treatments, and resident responses in electronic medical records (EMR).
Ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, including Medicare and Medicaid guidelines.
Participates in wound prevalence studies, audits, and quality assurance initiatives.
Resident & Staff Education:
Educates residents and families on wound prevention, treatment, and ongoing care.
Trains nursing staff on wound care best practices, pressure ulcer prevention, and proper documentation.
Collaborates with dietary and therapy teams to optimize wound healing through proper nutrition and mobility.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
Works closely with physicians, physical therapists, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive wound management.
Makes recommendations for specialty support surfaces, dressings, and other wound care interventions.
Qualifications & Skills:
Active RN or LVN/LPN license.
Wound Care Certification (WCC, CWON, or similar) preferred or willingness to obtain.
Minimum of 1 year of experience in wound care, long-term care, or skilled nursing preferred.
Strong knowledge of wound healing, treatment modalities, and infection control.
Proficiency in EMR/PCC documentation and regulatory compliance.
Excellent assessment, critical thinking, and communication skills.
Work Environment:
Primarily within the skilled nursing facility, moving between resident rooms and treatment areas.
Fast-paced, hands-on role requiring frequent standing, lifting, and patient interaction.
Collaboration with multiple healthcare professionals to ensure optimal resident care.