Sexual Health and Blood Borne Infections Nurse - Public Health - Abbotsford

Detailed Overview The Sexual Health and Blood Borne Infections (SHBBI) Nurse works as part of a multidisciplinary team and is responsible for coordinating and providing assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation services for Fraser Health clients who have, or are at risk, for sexually transmitted or blood borne infections such as HIV, Hep C and other associated health conditions. This role supports clients living with HIV through an integrated case management approach, utilizing best practices including outreach and harm reduction principles and practices, to engage and retain clients in care. This role provides sexual health and youth clinical (sexually transmitted infection and contraception) services through established clinics and outreach settings, and provides sexual health promotion and prevention activities in the community. The nurse will also conduct case investigation, follow up and contact tracing for reportable communicable diseases. Responsibilities Coordinates and participates in providing sexual health and blood born infection (SHBBI) services related to HIV, Hepatitis C and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and associated health conditions. This includes sexual health clinical testing services in both clinical and outreach settings as well as pre- and post-test counseling and partner notification and referral. Utilizes outreach approaches to engage with at risk populations. Develops excellent working relationships both internally and externally including physicians, acute care, primary health care centres, and others in facilitating seamless service for people affected by HIV, Hepatitis C and other related health concerns. Utilizes best practices literature, research and local information to inform the development of HIV, Hepatitis C, and sexual health related services. Provides harm reduction education, counselling and support to access services for at risk populations. Applies an integrated case management approach in collaboration with other services and community partners to ensure appropriate, culturally sensitive, relevant and efficient care and support for clients affected by HIV and Hepatitis C. Utilizes the social determinants of health and within the framework of health promotion, harm reduction and prevention, identifies the health issues, behaviours, needs barriers and challenges for at risk populations. Works collaboratively in team setting to develop creative strategies to address the challenges. Contributes to Fraser Health community planning processes relating to the establishment and maintenance of HIV and Hepatitis C and related services to address the continuum of care. Acts as a Public Health Nursing resource related to HIV, Hepatitis C, and sexual health by sharing information and best practices, participating in train the trainer activities, assisting with the development of protocols etc. Immunizes children and adults against vaccine preventable disease. Performs other related duties as assigned. Qualifications Education and Experience Current practicing registration as a Registered Nurse with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM). Graduation from an approved school of nursing including public health nursing component. Certification in Reproductive Health (STIs) with BCCNM, and two years' recent experience in public health/communicable disease management including experience performing HIV testing and certified contraceptive management nursing practices or equivalent combination of relevant education, training and experience. Valid BC Driver's Licence and possession of a personal vehicle for business use. Skills and Abilities Demonstrated ability to interact professionally and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with various stakeholders with tact and diplomacy. Broad knowledge of HIV, STI and Communicable Disease management. Broad knowledge of immunization and related reactions and contraindications. Demonstrated ability to administer injections and recognize adverse reactions. Knowledge and skill in applying the principles of health promotion, community development, and population health (including planning collaborative initiatives, building partnerships, group facilitation, health education, social marketing, use of local media and communication systems, and assessment and evaluation). Knowledge and skill in working with culturally diverse and/or vulnerable populations, including LGBT2SQQ+ persons, persons who use substances, and individuals with mental health concerns. Knowledge and skill in working with Trauma Informed practice. Comprehensive knowledge of Indigenous cultural safety, community resources and agencies as required. Ability to operate related equipment. Basic computer literacy to operate a computerized client care information system and word processing, spreadsheet, internet and email software. Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.