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; performs treatments for our children and adults; and schedules specialty consultations for any medical conditions individuals may have. Orthopedic and podiatry clinics are also offered on site. A registered dietician is on staff to ensure all nutritional needs are met. IDDI has contracted with a pharmacy to provide all medications for the individuals and to provide quarterly audits. The Medical Director holds a clinic weekly to address all medical concerns.The Nursing Department also provides training to the residential staff on topics such as G-tube feedings, VNS swiping, trach care, and Epipen administration.
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. Upon return from the appointment, the nursing department ensures that new orders are carried out and communicated to all departments, the pharmacy, and parents/guardians of the children and adults.
The goal of the Nursing Department is to provide care to our children and adults in the familiar environment of their residence as much as possible. When needed, the Nursing Department has a modern, specifically-designed infirmary which is utilized by both children and adults who require more frequent 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. 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 weekly basis at clinic and as needed 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.
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, extended vacations, and in MAP certified homes. The School Nurse Delegation program in the Children's Program allows staff, once trained, to administer an Epipen in an emergency and, if needed and on rare occasions, provide medication administration while on an overnight field trip, i.e. Special Olympics, when nursing is unavailable.
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, Rene Snook, RN at 508-644-3101, ext. 3430, or email rsnook@iddicommunity.org.