DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:

• The Trauma and General Surgery Physician Assistant (PA) works in collaboration with the general surgeons within the scope of practice guidelines agreed upon by the collaborating parties. Provide comprehensive care to the adult well and sick patient. The (PA) educates patients and/or their families in order to promote wellness, prevent health problems, maintain current health, and intervene in acute or chronic illness.

SUPERVISION: Reports directly to the assigned hospitalist

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Assess health status of the trauma and general surgery patient, through complete physician examination and medical history, which may include psychosocial, cognitive, and personal assets and limitations of the patient/family.
• Documents assessment data appropriately for progress notes, using appropriate terminology and format and integrates the information, as well as significant clinical data into the plan of care.
• Demonstrates advanced knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology in the assessment and plan of care.
• Establishes medical diagnosis; orders and evaluates diagnostic studies; performs and monitors therapeutic procedures; assesses and/or recommends follow-up plans under the direction of a supervising physician.
• Collaborates with supervising surgeon, as well as interdisciplinary physicians, in a collegial manner, in order to create a plan of care for the patient.
• Completes all documentation on assigned patients, in a timely fashion including H&P, progress notes, consult notes, and discharge summaries.
• Reports all abnormal findings in a timely manner, orders appropriate diagnostic studies and documents response in progress notes.
• Manages an appropriate caseload and completes work in time allotted.
• Responds to Level I and Level II trauma codes, as needed, prescribing appropriate treatment measures and emergency resuscitation in collaboration with the Trauma Surgeon and ED physician, per ATLS protocols.
• Collaborates with the Trauma Medical Director (TMD) and Trauma Program Manager (TPM) regarding administrative issues that require intervention and/or resolution.
• Participates in trauma program initiates related to designation as a Trauma Center.
• Provides formal and informal trauma related in-services and educational programs in which expert knowledge base is shared with staff.
• Actively participates in the department/hospital cost saving and productivity initiatives.
• Handles other duties, as assigned.
• Coordinates select projects/programs, including development and implementation of clinical pathways, guidelines, and protocols, as assigned by the TMD.
• Provides formal and informal trauma related in-services and educational programs in which expert knowledge base is shared with staff.

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

• Must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Physician Assistant Medicine or graduate of an approved Physician Assistant Training Program
• Current license as a Physician Assistant in State of Louisiana
• Current BLS, ACLS, and ATLS certifications, PALS preferred.
• Eligible for Prescriptive Authority in the state of Louisiana as outlined by the State Board of Medical Examiners
• Experience in evaluating and treating patients in a Physician office setting.
• Computer literacy
• Previous experience working in certain specialty areas may be desirable.
• Extensive knowledge of physical assessment, differential diagnosis, pathophysiology, pharmacology and management of acute and chronic patient/family problems; Twelve hours continuing education or in-service hours required annually.
• Utilizes effective verbal and written communication skills with patients and colleagues
• Ability to communicate with patient, family, peers and medical personnel.
• Requires emotional stability and resilience.
• Must be adaptable to change, be decisive and demonstrate foresight.
• Exhibits organizational and leadership ability.
• Exhibits organizational and leadership ability.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• Work requires a variety of physical activities including, moderate amount of lifting (50-100 pounds), bending, stooping and positioning of patients and equipment.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for 50% of the time.
• Visual acuity required for a variety of specific activities. Must have normal hearing for listening with stethoscope to breath sounds, heart sounds, and bowel sounds.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

“Experience Memorial” is more than a slogan, it’s the care we provide our patients and it’s the commitment to our community and our team members. As a nationally certified Great Place to Work, at Lake Charles Memorial Health System you will have the opportunity to be a part of an organizational culture that supports not only exceptional patient care but also the well-being and professional growth of our employees. Join us and be a part of a team where your contributions are valued, your growth is nurtured, and your success is celebrated.

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