Kindred Hospital Bay Area - St. Petersburg and Acute Rehabilitation Unit (ARU) is a 95-bed hospital offering the same in-depth care you would receive in a traditional hospital, but for an extended recovery period. With 82 long-term acute care beds, we partner with your physician and offer 24-hour clinical care seven days a week so you can start your journey to wellness. Comparably, our 13-bed ARU is designed for people who have experienced the debilitating effects of an acute injury, impairment or illness. Located south of downtown St. Petersburg where 4th Street turns into 6th Street, between 30th and 32nd Avenues, we have stunning, unobstructed waterfront views of the bay with easy access to public transit.

Job Summary

The Wound Care Nurse is responsible for providing specialized nursing care to patients with wounds, ostomies, or skin integrity concerns. This role includes assessment, development of care plans, implementation of treatments, patient and staff education, and documentation in accordance with clinical standards and facility policy. The nurse acts as a resource and consultant to clinical teams regarding complex wound care management and best practices. 

Essential Functions

• Provides comprehensive wound assessments and collaborates with providers on treatment plans
• Implements and monitors wound care interventions including negative pressure therapy, dressing changes, and offloading techniques
• Coordinates care for patients with complex wounds and ensures continuity through discharge planning and follow-up referrals
• Educates patients, families, and staff regarding wound care techniques and prevention strategies
• Identifies patients at risk for skin breakdown and oversees implementation of prevention protocols
• Serves as a clinical resource and advisor for skin integrity, wound management, and product utilization
• Participates in performance improvement initiatives and monitors outcomes related to wound care
• Maintains documentation according to regulatory and organizational standards
• Collaborates with interdisciplinary team members to ensure integrated care
• Provides input on wound care supplies and equipment

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Demonstrated clinical expertise in wound and skin care
• Strong communication, assessment, and critical thinking skills
• Knowledge of evidence-based practices in wound healing
• Ability to educate and mentor staff on wound care protocols
• Proficient in EMR systems and documentation
• Capable of lifting 50 lbs and performing physical tasks required in patient care
• Populations Served: Adolescents (12-17 years), Adults (18-64 years), Geriatrics (65+ years)
• Protected Health Information: Access to complete medical records including clinical and demographic data

Education

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program (ADN, diploma, or BSN)

Licenses/Certifications

• Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within time frame required by facility policy
• Wound care certification preferred or willingness to obtain per facility policy

Experience

• Minimum of two years of nursing experience in acute care, skilled nursing, outpatient, or home health settings
• Experience in wound care preferred