GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the Direction of the Diabetes Services Medical Director, Medical Group Endocrinologists, and the Diabetes Care Coordinator, the Diabetes Educator is responsible for educating patients and families about Diabetes management; serves as a resource person for Diabetes programs and services within the hospital, Medical Group, and the community.

II. REPRESENTATIVE FUNCTIONS:

1. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to assess, treat, and care for all age groups of patients from Pediatric to Geriatric; implements assessment/treatment/care based on the developmental stages of the patient. Involves family/guardian in plan of care and conducts patient and family education, as appropriate, considering the developmental needs of the patient.

2. Consults, develops, and implements diabetes procedures including follow-up evaluations for diabetes patients being referred to Diabetes Services inpatient or outpatient.

3. Serves as a liaison between the community and Northwest Community Healthcare providing ongoing expertise, lay education, and support to groups and individuals.

4. Provides a communication link between the referring physician/provider to assure coordination of patient care and maintains communication with providers concerning patient's diabetes status.

5. Assesses knowledge level and educational needs of Diabetes patients and their families; presents relevant material and utilizes appropriate teaching aids, i.e. videos, handouts, books, etc.; solicits feedback on class content and instruction through use of verbal interviews; maintains a current file of patient education materials that deal with diabetes.

6. Cooperates, communicates, and interacts with physicians/providers and hospital staff as necessary to promote good relations as well as quality patient education. Supports, interprets, and participates in the evaluation of Hospital, Medical Group, Diabetes Department, and Educational Department philosophies and objectives and applies them to all aspects of patient education; facilitates and teaches ancillary staff the development and maintenance of skills to ensure optimal care of Diabetes patients and families.

7. Serves as patient advocate by supporting the "Patient's Bill of Rights"; answers questions and presents alternatives as appropriate.

8. Assumes responsibility for own professional growth by attending continuing education classes, seminars, and by reading professional journals; attends required number of Diabetes Advisory Committee meetings. Attends all mandatory safety in-service education programs.

9. Adheres to NCH departmental and hospital safety standards in order to maintain a safe patient care and working environment.

10. Refers patients to other hospital resources, i.e. dietitians, physical therapists, discharge planners, when appropriate.

11. Adheres to all Northwest Community Healthcare standards, policies, and procedures.

III. SPECIAL SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

1. The interpersonal skills necessary to relate effectively with patients, families, and various Medical Group and hospital staff.

2. The written and verbal communication skills necessary to deliver quality educational programs.

3. The organizational skills necessary to coordinate and implement educational programs.

4. The analytical skills necessary to assess the educational needs of patients and staff, develop programs, and evaluate classes.

IV. KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE AND LICENSURE/REGISTRATION REQUIRED:

1. At least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition.

2. Current licensure to practice as a Registered Nurse or Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist in the state of Illinois.

3. Certification as a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist (CDCES, new credential) or Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE, previous credential).

4. Minimum three years' experience in Medical-Surgical Nursing or a minimum of three years practicing as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.

5. One year of experience in patient teaching and group leadership dynamics with knowledge of adult education principles and methods.

What you will need:Benefits:

• Career Pathways to Promote Professional Growth and Development
• Various Medical, Dental, and Vision options, including Domestic Partner Coverage
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Free Parking at designated locations
• Wellness Program Savings Plan
• Health Savings Account Options
• Retirement Options with Company Match
• Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
• Community Involvement Opportunities