Nurse Navigator (RN) Colon Rectal Surgery Job Listing at MedStar Health in Washington, DC (Job ID 100851)

Description

About the Job

Job Summary

The Nurse Navigator for Colon & Rectal Surgery at MedStar Health serves as a dedicated resource for patients navigating the surgical care continuum. This role provides guidance, education, and advocacy for patients from diagnosis through surgery and postoperative follow-up. The Nurse Navigator coordinates care across surgical teams, gastroenterology, oncology, and support services, helping to ensure timely access to treatments and resources. By addressing patient needs, reducing barriers to care, and promoting engagement, the Colon & Rectal Surgery Nurse Navigator enhances the patient experience, supports adherence to treatment plans, and contributes to improved clinical outcomes.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Guide patients through the entire colon and rectal surgery care continuum, from diagnosis to preoperative preparation, surgery, and postoperative follow-up.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for patients and families, providing education, answering questions, and supporting decision-making.
• Conduct patient assessments to identify medical, psychosocial, and logistical needs and develop individualized care plans.
• Facilitate referrals to surgical teams, gastroenterology, oncology, and supportive services within MedStar Health and the community.
• Monitor patient progress, follow up on appointments, and address barriers to care to ensure continuity and adherence to treatment plans.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including surgeons, nurses, social workers, and other providers to ensure coordinated, patient-centered care.
• Provide patient education on surgical preparation, postoperative care, disease management, and lifestyle considerations.
• Maintain accurate documentation in electronic health records (EHR) and track patient outcomes.
• Support high-risk patients with complex needs, ensuring timely interventions and access to appropriate resources.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives, patient satisfaction efforts, and program development to enhance surgical services.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in nursing required
• Master's degree in nursing preferred

Experience

• Minimum of 2–5 years of clinical nursing experience, in surgical services, oncology, or specialty care required.
• Experience providing patient education, care coordination, or case management in a healthcare setting required.
• Familiarity with managing patients undergoing colorectal procedures or complex surgical care.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, nurses, social workers, and other providers.
• Experience using electronic health records (EHR) for documentation, care tracking, and outcome monitoring.
• Prior experience in patient advocacy, navigation, or specialty care coordination is preferred.

Licensure & Certifications

• Active, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice is required.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association (AHA) is required.
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification preferred but not required.
• Certification in care coordination, case management (CCM, ACM), or specialty nursing (e.g., Surgical Nursing Certification) is a plus.
• Experience or certification in patient navigation or specialty care management is desirable.