Poison Information Specialist

Overview

Job Summary

Non-bedside nurse or pharmacist who manages poisoning cases reported by the public or healthcare providers. Obtains exposure history, assesses the severity of toxicity, relying on skills developed during training, and offers a treatment plan.

Essential Functions

• Utilizes clinical and communication skills to obtain a history of the exposure, including all aspects of patient condition, agent(s) involved, circumstances, etc., in a timely manner consistent with the severity of the exposure.
• Provides poison information on patients of all ages, including infants, children, adolescents, adults and the elderly.
• Utilizes information resources appropriately to accurately assess each exposure case. This includes use of computerized data bases, textbooks, primary medical literature, consultants, and previous knowledge and experience.
• Formulates an appropriate plan of care (patient disposition) by interpreting and integrating available information.
• Implements the plan of care based on established guidelines, case specifics, patient care priorities, health care facility resources, and professional judgment in a timely manner.
• Communicates patient information and treatment recommendations as necessary to appropriate health care facilities/providers.
• Evaluates the appropriateness of assessment & recommendations documented on the case record by adhering to established follow-up procedures.
• Provides non-toxicological drug and medical information to callers within the scope of education and experience as time permits.
• Provides initial crisis intervention to callers with other medical or drag problems, or suicidal intentions, with referral to appropriate community agencies.
• Refers non-medical callers to appropriate agencies in a professional and friendly manner.

Physical Requirements
Works primarily in the Poison Center. Majority of time is sitting, with frequent telephone use and exposure to computer monitor. May assist in patient evaluation and treatment in the Emergency Department as requested. Must be able to operate telephone, computer and recording device equipment. Each teammate has the responsibility to work in a safe environment.

Education, Experience and Certifications

Graduate from an accredited school of nursing, ACPE accredited pharmacy school, or medical school required. Registered nurse, registered pharmacist, physician's assistant or physician (MD or DO) required. Two years clinical experience preferred; North Carolina license to practice required. BLS required per policy guidelines. Obtain certification as a Certified Specialist in Poison Information administered by the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) within three examination periods and recertify as required by the AAPCC and North Carolina Poison Control required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and keyboard skills preferred.