In IDDI's Nursing Department, nurses and certified nurses assistants work together 24 hours a day to monitor the medical needs of our children and adults. The department schedules x-rays and lab tests; administers medications to and performs treatments for our children and adults; and schedules specialty consultations for any medical conditions individuals may have. Orthopedic, podiatry and vision clinics are also offered on site.
The Nursing Department collaborates with all other services when compiling information for medical appointments. All appointments are reviewed by the RN supervisor of each program, and the appropriate paperwork is forwarded with the individual to his or her medical appointment.
The Nursing Department has a modern, specifically-designed infirmary which is utilized by both children and adults who require medical monitoring. The infirmary is staffed with nurses around the clock that enable the department to easily accept both children and adults back from a hospital admission. Nurses can administer new medication and monitor for any adverse side effects. Individuals spend less time in the hospital post illness and post operatively because they can receive nursing care here. Another benefit of the infirmary is that there are familiar staff who communicate on a regular basis with our Medical Director for any concerns. IDDI can accommodate short-term oxygen supplementation and emergency care; however, we do not provide IV therapy or artificial ventilation.
The Nursing Department is CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments)-certified which enables us to check and treat glucose levels for our children and adults. Our Adult Program medication room is certified by the Department of Public Health. Support staff must complete a Medication Administration Program (MAP) course which allows them to become certified to administer medications during community outings or extended vacations. The School Nurse Delegation program in the Children's Program allows staff, once tested, to administer certain medications during school-hour programs.
Our Medical Director is on site once a week, and an on-call physician is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Both the Children's and Adult Programs have an RN supervisor, as well as RN pager coverage 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Director of Nursing is also on call for any medical issues.
For more information on Medical Services, contact the Director of Nursing, Donna Medeiros at 508-644-3101, ext. 3430, or email dmedeiros@iddicommunity.org.