Description

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to join our interdisciplinary team with Saint Joseph Health System in Mishawaka, IN.

This role is primarily responsible for assessing, evaluating, and treating patients with pain and palliative care needs, under the supervision and collaboration of a physician. The ideal candidate will utilize advanced clinical knowledge and skills to identify abnormal conditions, diagnose health problems, develop and implement treatment plans, evaluate patient outcomes, and collaborate with or refer to physicians when appropriate.

Key Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate the organizations mission and core values in all interactions.
• Adhere to all laws and regulations related to patient health, safety, and medical information.
• Apply critical thinking to make independent decisions within the scope of an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) or Physician Assistant.
• Conduct comprehensive history and physical assessments.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to develop and document therapeutic plans of care.
• Prescribe appropriate pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments.
• Communicate effectively with physicians and team members regarding patient outcomes and care variations.
• Provide continuity of care and monitor patient progress between physician visits.
• Delegate care appropriately within scope of practice.
• Educate patients, families, and health team members using advanced clinical knowledge.
• Recommend community resources to support patient and family needs.
• Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling to ensure service excellence.
• Maintain strict patient confidentiality.
• Perform other duties as assigned in alignment with the roles purpose.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Graduate of an accredited nurse practitioner or physician assistant program.
• Masters Degree with Adult/Geriatric focus (for APRNs).

Licensure & Certification:

• Current Indiana RN license (for APRNs).
• Eligible for Indiana Prescriptive Authority and Controlled Substance Registration.
• DEA Controlled Substance Registration required.
• RN/APRN or ELNEC certification preferred.

Experience:

• Prior experience in hospice or hospital-based palliative care preferred.

Other Requirements:

• Must secure a collaborative agreement with a population or role-appropriate physician.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with patients and healthcare team members.
• Self-directed, highly motivated professional with sound clinical judgment.
• Ability to remain calm and effective in emergency situations.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Flexibility in assigned hours and shifts based on departmental needs.