Observation Unit Advanced Practice Professionals (APP) SkillS Set
APP Definition
Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant who works under the direct or indirect supervision of an attending physician.
APP Care Providers in Observation
This refers specifically to Nurse Practitioner and Physician Assistants who would provide a valuable resource as a medical provider in the development and functioning of an Observation Unit. Certain skill sets are required to function in an observation unit both under the supervision of a physician and independently.
Individuals must be able to communicate effectively with a broad spectrum of health care providers including:
- Attendings
- Primary Care Physicians
- Nurses
- Consultants
- Social work
- Physical Therapy
- Utilization Review
Experience
APP’s working in a dedicated observation unit usually require a minimum of 2 to 4 years post-licensure experience predominantly acquired from the following areas -
- Inpatient Medical Units
- Emergency Department
- Cardiology Services
Primary Required Competency
- Read and analyze cardiac rhythms and EKG’s.
- Experience with IV medications.
- BLS and ACLS certified.
- Ability to interpret and act on laboratory studies.
- Clear understanding of provocative cardiac testing modalities including:
a. Routine ETT
b. Stress Echo
c. Stress Thallium
d. Chemical Stress testing
e. Proper use of consultative services.
f. Understanding of Interqual and patient level of care.
g. Competent physical examinations of patients and appropriate patient work-ups as out-lined by the APP teaching module.
Institutional Requirements
- Maintain up to date licensure and educational requirements as dictated by the Hospital credentialing committee.
- Maintain up to date CME in issues relevant to observation services.
APP-ASSESSMENT
Assessment of clinical skills is determined by direct observation and feedback from colleagues and hospital personnel.
Updated 9/7/16