DESCRIPTION

Under the clinical direction of the Colorectal Surgery Division Chief, the Surgery Nurse Practitioner (NP) functions as a provider of patient care in Surgery and utilizes advanced knowledge and clinical expertise in providing primary and/or specialized health care services to colorectal patients. Works with residents and fellows to coordinate the care of the patients. Participates in ongoing research and quality assurance studies with the Colorectal Team. Functions as liaison to physicians, mid-levels, physical and occupational therapists. Position requires special knowledge, skills and abilities in the fields of colorectal surgery.

While not required, a cover letter is highly recommended when applying to this position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be a graduate from an accredited physician assistant program.

• California Physician Assistant (PA) license.

• Current PA Certification from NCCPA.

• Minimum three (3) years relevant GI/Colorectal experience as a licensed Physician Assistant (PA). If insufficient applicant pool, department may consider Physician Assistants with three (3+) or more years of adult inpatient ICU and/or GI/Colorectal experience. Due to advanced practice credentialing eligibility, clinical advanced practice work experience must be within the last two years.

• Demonstrated experience and skill in wound care for surgical patients.

• Demonstrated experience and knowledge of operating room standards and techniques.

• Proven experience in performing initial history, and physical examination, identify major medical problems, and formulate appropriate plans of action.

• Theoretical background in: anatomy, physiology, general medicine, pulmonary, emergency and critical care medicine, management of common diseases, concepts of medicine and surgery, therapeutics including pharmacology, counseling techniques and interpersonal dynamics.

• Demonstrated experience and ability to maintain detailed medical information in an organized and easily retrievable manner.

• Knowledge necessary for instructing house staff, medical students, physicians, nurses, and other medical personnel in all aspects of surgical care.

• Ability to maintain good working relationships and communications with physicians in-charge, laboratory personnel, and members of the health care team.

• Ability to properly counsel patients and families, particularly in delicate or death and dying situations. Experience and knowledge of all type of treatment and modalities necessary for patient care and well-being.

• Strong writing skills to prepare clear medical reports, laboratory data and progress notes, as well as policies, procedures and protocols for patient care management. Ability to write orders regarding execution of patient plans of treatment.

• Ability to perform various medical procedures, for diagnostic studies and therapeutic modalities.

• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility in order to work effectively with staff, patients, and community agencies in person and on the phone.

• Knowledge of medical ethics and law practices, pertaining to medical and medical socioeconomics.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Inpatient experience specifically with the management and care of postop surgical patients.
• GI or GI surgery background, and knowledge of enhanced recovery pathways and the care of cancer patients and ostomy care.
• Experience assessing preop and postop patients independently.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Must be able to work various hours, days, shifts, on-call and locations based on the 24-hour Medical Center's business needs.
• Must be able to travel and have access to reliable transportation.
• Must be able to obtain UCSD Medical Staff privileges and maintain during employment.