Seizure Freedom and Its Price: Emotional Recovery After Adult Frontal Lobe Resection
Frontal lobe epilepsy is not only one of the most common surgically treated forms of epilepsy, it is also one of the most deeply life-altering. The disorder can disrupt a person’s ability to regulate emotions, connect socially, and navigate daily life with confidence. Surgery can offer hope, restoring aspects of cognitive and emotional function, yet little is known about what life truly feels like for patients afterward. While much research explores outcomes in children, the lived experiences of adults who undergo frontal lobe resection (FLR) remain largely unheard.
Sofia Ljunggren et al. conducted a qualitative study examining FLR patients' and their caregivers’ experiences of cognitive and psychosocial function after surgery. Fourteen adult patients and twelve of their respective relatives were interviewed at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden. Based on these accounts, it was clear that the patients who underwent FLR for epilepsy experienced a wide range of cognitive and psychosocial outcomes. While some reported a renewed sense of purpose and emotional relief following the cessation of seizures, others struggled with emotional volatility, fatigue, and depressive symptoms1. These mixed outcomes highlight the significant need for structured psychosocial support programs that begin before surgery and continue through the rehabilitation phase. Preoperative counseling is particularly important for setting realistic expectations and preparing both patients and caregivers for potential post-surgical challenges.
Interviews conducted by Ljunggren and colleagues revealed that although seizure control was often achieved, the psychological aftermath varied. Caregivers frequently noted changes in personality, mood swings, or diminished energy levels in their loved ones. These findings emphasized the importance of including caregivers in both pre- and post-operative counseling sessions. Research shows that when caregivers are informed and supported, patients tend to have better outcomes in terms of rehabilitation and emotional recovery1. Structured support can also help mitigate caregiver fatigue, a known risk factor in long-term neurological care2. Providing caregivers with access to mental health resources and peer support networks can ease their burden and enhance the overall recovery environment.
Notably, Ljunggren's findings align with similar studies conducted in the United States, where researchers have also emphasized the psychosocial complexities following epilepsy surgery in adults. For example, U.S.-based studies have reported comparable emotional and cognitive challenges post-surgery, including difficulties in mood regulation, shifts in identity, and strained familial relationships. These parallels reinforce the need for international consensus on the integration of psychosocial care into standard epilepsy treatment protocols. The convergence of findings across different healthcare systems underscores the universal importance of caregiver inclusion, preoperative education, and ongoing mental health support as essential components of recovery.
Developing Tailored Rehabilitation Programs for FLR Patients
Given the unique cognitive and emotional challenges adult patients face post-FLR, there is a strong case for developing specialized rehabilitation programs. These programs should integrate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), occupational therapy, and neuropsychological assessments to monitor and support cognitive function over time. Research has shown that adult neuroplasticity, although more limited than in children, can still be harnessed through targeted interventions that promote cognitive recovery and adaptation3.
In municipalities where health and mental wellness services are coordinated through community health centers or hospital partnerships, integrating post-FLR rehabilitation into existing neurorehabilitation services would be both feasible and impactful. This integration could include group therapy sessions, individualized cognitive training, and peer support networks. These services should offer flexibility to accommodate the personalized nature of recovery following FLR. Studies suggest that a multidisciplinary team approach - involving neurologists, psychologists, and social workers - provides the most comprehensive support for patients recovering from neurosurgical interventions4. Moreover, ongoing caregiver involvement in these programs can reinforce treatment consistency and improve communication between the care team and the family unit.
Policy and Programmatic Implications for Local Health Agencies
For local health departments and agencies responsible for mental wellness services, findings from studies like Ljunggren's offer valuable guidance for planning and resource allocation. Incorporating post-surgical mental health assessments into standard follow-up protocols for FLR patients would help identify those at risk for negative emotional outcomes. Municipal agencies can collaborate with regional hospitals and specialist clinics to ensure consistent administration of these assessments and streamlined referrals to mental health services.
Additionally, local governments could invest in training community health workers and case managers to recognize signs of post-surgical emotional distress and cognitive decline. This workforce development strategy would allow for earlier intervention and continuous monitoring, especially in communities with limited access to neurologists or neuropsychologists. A proactive care model, including home visits, telehealth check-ins, and caregiver support groups, can improve quality of life for both patients and families, while also reducing the likelihood of hospital readmissions5. These investments not only benefit the FLR patient population but also strengthen the broader mental wellness infrastructure within neurological care services.
Opportunities for Future Research and Program Design
Further research is needed to understand the long-term trajectory of cognitive and psychosocial function in adults who have undergone FLR. Existing studies are often small in scale and limited in scope. Longitudinal research that follows patients over several years would provide invaluable insights into the durability of both positive and adverse outcomes. These studies should also examine the effects of various rehabilitation and support programs, helping to identify which interventions are most effective and for which subgroups of patients.
For program designers in the health and mental wellness field, there is an opportunity to pilot and evaluate comprehensive post-FLR support models. These models could include peer mentorship programs where former patients guide new patients through recovery, or digital platforms offering cognitive training exercises and mood tracking. If effective, these interventions could be scaled through public-private partnerships or integrated into existing mental health service networks. Program design should be shaped by patient and caregiver feedback to ensure services meet real-world needs and promote sustainable recovery. Data from these pilot programs could contribute to the growing evidence base supporting more personalized and equitable care models.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration for Holistic Care
Achieving optimal outcomes for FLR patients requires collaboration across disciplines. Neurologists, neurosurgeons, psychologists, social workers, and rehabilitation specialists must work together to create a cohesive care plan. Municipal health agencies can facilitate these efforts through integrated care models and shared electronic health records. Interdisciplinary case conferences and care coordination meetings help ensure all team members are aligned on patient goals and interventions.
A practical step is the establishment of transition coordinators who assist patients as they move from inpatient surgical care to outpatient mental health and rehabilitation services. These coordinators can help schedule appointments, arrange transportation, and follow up on referrals. In resource-constrained communities, existing health navigators or primary care providers can take on this role as a cost-effective alternative. These coordination efforts not only improve patient outcomes but also promote more efficient use of healthcare resources6. Strong coordination reduces the risk of patients falling through the cracks during vulnerable transitions, ensuring continuity of care.
Conclusion and Strategic Recommendations
The experiences of adult patients following FLR surgery, as detailed in Ljunggren et al.'s study, highlight the critical intersection between surgical success and psychosocial rehabilitation. While seizure freedom can significantly improve quality of life, the cognitive and emotional adjustments that follow should not be underestimated. By investing in pre- and post-surgical counseling, tailored rehabilitation programs, and interdisciplinary collaboration, local health agencies can better support this vulnerable population.
Strategic recommendations include: developing standardized pre-surgery counseling protocols, integrating mental health check-ins into post-surgical follow-ups, training community health workers in cognitive health monitoring, and piloting rehabilitation models that combine cognitive therapy with social support. These interventions have the potential to significantly enhance recovery outcomes and should be considered essential components of comprehensive epilepsy care for adults.
Bibliography
Ljunggren, Sofia, Monica Eriksson, and Elisabet Nylander. "Experiences of Emotional and Psychosocial Functioning After Frontal Lobe Resection for Epilepsy." Epilepsy & Behavior Reports 21 (2022): 100505.
Thompson, Cynthia A., and Carol J. Spilsbury. "Caregiver Burden and Mental Health: Evaluation of a Community-Based Program." Journal of Applied Gerontology 38, no. 3 (2019): 329-346.
Kennedy, Martin R.T., and Linda S. Turkstra. "Cognitive Rehabilitation for Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury." NeuroRehabilitation 32, no. 4 (2013): 663-680.
Wilson, Barbara A., and Jill Winegardner. Neuropsychological Rehabilitation: Theory, Models, Therapy and Outcome. Cambridge University Press, 2014.
Roth, David L., et al. "Family Caregiving and the Transition from Hospital to Home: Evidence-Based Recommendations for Health Care Providers." Gerontologist 56, no. 1 (2016): 149-154.
Fisher, Monica P., and Elizabeth L. Baum. "Integrated Behavioral Health in Primary Care: Improving Patient Outcomes and Reducing Costs." American Journal of Managed Care 26, no. 6 (2020): 243-248.
More from 2 Topics
Explore related articles on similar topics
Top Paying Jobs in Healthcare and Mental Wellness
Highest paying opportunities related to this article
About the Role: The County of San Diego Medical Examiner's Department is recruiting Deputy Medical Examiners to determine the cause of death for the deceased in the custody of the Medical Examiner. This specialized physician role involves conducting post-mortem examinations, conferring with the Chief Medical Examiner and law enforcement, and interpreting autopsy findings to reconstruct events leading to suspected or actual homicides or suicides. Board-certified Forensic Pathologists with non-forensic subspecialty training are encouraged to apply. Key Responsibilities: - Determine the cause of death for the deceased in the custody of the Medical Examiner. - Conduct post-mortem examinations to determine the probable cause of death. - Confer with the Chief Medical Examiner, Chief Deputy Medical Examiner, and law enforcement agencies. - Interpret autopsy findings to reconstruct events leading to suspected or actual homicides or suicides. Minimum Qualifications: 1. License: A valid license to practice medicine in the State of California at the time of appointment. 2. Experience: At least one year of experience in the field of medical legal death investigations. 3. Certification: Possession of Board Certification in Forensic Pathology. Special Requirements: - Desirable Traits: Effective communication, customer focus, teamwork, continuous learning, ethical behavior, and support for change. - Background: Must pass a thorough background check, including fingerprinting. - Medical: Must pass a pre-employment medical screening. - Disaster Service: Designated as a disaster service worker under California Government Code Sections 3100 to 3109. - Blind Screening: Personally identifiable information is removed from applications to ensure a fair and equitable process. Selection Process: 1. Blind Applicant Screening: Automated evaluation of the Work Experience and Supplemental Questionnaire sections. 2. Individual Review: Manual review to confirm the provided information is accurate and qualifying. 3. Interviews: Conducted for the most highly qualified candidates. 4. Background and Medical: Background process begins shortly after interviews, followed by a medical screening approximately 3 days after successful background results. How to Apply: 1. Submit an application through the official County of San Diego careers portal. 2. Detail your experience meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section. 3. Note that resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and supplemental questionnaire. 4. Indicate the referring employee's name if referred through the Employee Referral Program. Employment Details: - Employer: County of San Diego Medical Examiner's Department - Bonuses: $1,250 recruitment bonus upon completion of the hiring process, $1,250 after successful completion of the probation period. - Relocation: May be eligible for a relocation allowance up to $8,000. - Benefits: Comprehensive County benefits package, including veteran preference credits for military service. - EEO: The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity, practicing inclusion, and maintaining a diverse workforce.
ABOUT THE ROLE The San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) prioritizes equitable and inclusive access to quality healthcare and values workforce diversity. This role involves performing professional nursing duties in hospitals, emergency hospitals, clinics, sanitariums, and other institutions. Employees will work in person across various SFDPH facilities, including Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, Laguna Honda Hospital, and over 15 primary care health centers, to deliver services and support the community. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide nursing care to patients within an assigned hospital unit, clinic, or any SFDPH setting. - Observe and report symptoms and conditions of patients. - Take and record vital signs or other diagnostics, including temperatures, respiration, and pulse. - Report unusual occurrences and unusual results of treatments. - Set up treatment trays and prepare instruments and other equipment. - Implement medical and nursing care plans. - Direct and supervise patient care provided by nursing personnel. - Maintain standard unit or clinic activities. - Assist in administering highly specialized therapy. - Maintain records reflecting patients' condition, medication, treatment, and reactions. - Follow regulations, policies, and procedures for nursing care. - Direct the work of auxiliary sub-professional personnel in assisting with patient care, cleanliness, and sanitation. - Perform other related duties as assigned or required. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Possession of a valid permanent or temporary (including interim permit) California Registered Nurse License. - License status must be "Current" according to search.dca.ca.gov. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - License number must be explicitly included in the application to avoid rejection. - Applicants may be required to submit verification of qualifying education and experience at any point during the recruitment process. - Complete and verifiable registered nursing employment history (up to 21 years) must be included on the application to determine the appropriate salary step. - Any misrepresentation or falsification of education, training, or work experience may result in disqualification for this and future job opportunities. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Application review to ensure minimum qualifications are met based on the provided information. 2. Completion of a questionnaire regarding experience and licensure as part of the application. 3. Consideration for all nursing specialties, as this is a consolidated recruitment process. 4. Potential requests for verification of education and experience during the selection phase. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit all job applications through the City and County of San Francisco online portal (SmartRecruiters) at https://careers.sf.gov/. 2. Use a personal email address that is checked regularly, not a shared or work email. 3. Ensure the first and last name on the application match legal ID for verification. 4. Retain the confirmation email from notification@smartrecruiters.com as proof of submission. 5. For questions, contact Katrina Navarro at katrina.navarro@sfdph.org or (628) 271-6717. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Public Health - Job Class: P103-Special Nurse - Recruitment ID: REF3503J / TEX-P103-EXEMPT - Role Type: Temporary Exempt - Employment Type: Part-time; As-Needed (Per Diem) - Work Hours: Varied schedules, hours as directed - Location: SFDPH Facilities, determined by position - Application Deadline: Continuous (Note: Applications submitted more than 6 months ago will expire)
About the Role The County of San Diego Medical Examiner's Department is recruiting for an entry-level Deputy Medical Examiner I. In this role, you will determine the cause of death for the deceased in the custody of the Medical Examiner by conducting post-mortem examinations, visiting death scenes, and preparing detailed findings for legal and medical records. Key Responsibilities - Visit scenes of death to gather information and evidence. - Conduct post-mortem examinations to determine the probable cause of death. - Perform microscopic tissue examinations. - Prepare detailed reports of findings. - Testify and provide medical evidence at grand jury and court trials. Minimum Qualifications - License: A valid license to practice medicine in the State of California at the time of appointment. - Certification: Must obtain board certification in Forensic Pathology within one year of hire. - Certification: Must be board certified in Anatomic Pathology. - Training: Must be currently in a Forensic Pathology Fellowship or have completed a Forensic Pathology Fellowship. Special Requirements - Preferred: Board certification in a related non-forensic subspecialty, such as Neuropathology, Cardiac Pathology, or Pediatric Pathology. - Desirable Traits: Effective communication, customer focus, ethical behavior, teamwork, continuous learning, and adaptability to change. - Disaster Service: Designated as a disaster service worker under California Government Code, required to participate in assigned disaster activities. Selection Process 1. Blind Applicant Screening: Personally identifiable information is removed to ensure a fair and equitable process. 2. Automated Evaluation: Supplemental questionnaire and application are reviewed using an automated system. 3. Individual Review: Applications are reviewed individually to confirm accuracy and qualifying information. 4. Interviews: Conducted for the most highly qualified candidates. 5. Background and Medical: Successful candidates undergo a background check, fingerprinting, and pre-employment medical screening. How to Apply - Submit a complete online application through the County of San Diego careers portal. - Ensure all experience meeting minimum requirements is detailed in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire. - Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History or supplemental questionnaire. - If referred by a current County employee, indicate their name on the application for the Employee Referral Reward Program. Employment Details - Department: County of San Diego Medical Examiner's Department - Position Type: Full-Time - Work Schedule: Open until filled. - Equal Opportunity: The County of San Diego is committed to diversity, inclusion, and offers preferential credits for military service through the Veteran's Preference Policy.
ABOUT THE ROLE The San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) prioritizes equitable and inclusive access to quality healthcare, valuing diversity in its workforce. The mission is to protect and promote the health of all San Franciscans. Employees work across hospitals, clinics, programs, and offices, including the San Francisco Health Network, Population Health Division, and Behavioral Health Services. Locations include Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, Laguna Honda Hospital, and over 15 primary care health centers. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide nursing care to patients in assigned hospital units, clinics, or SFDPH settings - Observe and report patient symptoms and conditions - Take and record vital signs and other diagnostics (temperature, respiration, pulse) - Report unusual occurrences and treatment results - Set up treatment trays and prepare instruments and equipment - Implement medical and nursing care plans - Direct and supervise patient care provided by nursing personnel - Maintain standard unit or clinic activities - Assist in administering highly specialized therapy - Maintain accurate records of patient condition, medication, treatment, and reactions - Follow all regulations, policies, and procedures for nursing care - Direct auxiliary sub-professional personnel in patient care and sanitation tasks - Perform other related duties as assigned MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - License: Possession of a valid permanent or temporary (including interim permit) California Registered Nurse License. License status must be "Current" according to search.dca.ca.gov. - Experience: At least one (1) year of experience working as a Registered Nurse (equivalent to 2,000 hours based on a 40-hour work week). SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Applicants must include their RN license number in the application to avoid rejection. - Applicants must provide complete and verifiable registered nursing employment history (up to 21 years) on the application for appropriate salary step placement. - Many positions may start on the night shift (e.g., 7:00pm to 7:00am). - Applicants may be required to submit verification of qualifying education and experience at any point during the recruitment process. SELECTION PROCESS 1. Completion of a questionnaire regarding experience and licensure as part of the application. 2. Consolidated recruitment process: applicants will be considered for all nursing specialties. 3. Additional selection processes may be conducted by the hiring department prior to final hiring decisions. 4. Certification follows the Rule of the List. 5. An eligible list of candidate names will be created and remain active for a maximum of six (6) months. HOW TO APPLY - Submit all job applications through the City and County of San Francisco online portal: https://careers.sf.gov/ (SmartRecruiters). - Use a personal email address checked regularly, as work or school emails may cause unfixable issues. - Ensure first and last names match legal ID. - Public computers are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Dept. of Human Resources (1 South Van Ness Avenue, 4th Floor) and the City Career Center at City Hall (1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 110). - For questions, contact Katrina Navarro at katrina.navarro@sfdph.org or (628) 271-6717. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Public Health - Job Class: 2320-Registered Nurse - Role Type: Permanent Civil Service - Hours: Full-time or Part-time - Exam Type: Continuous - Recruitment ID: REF29323X / CCT-2320-H00083
ABOUT THE ROLE As the Nursing Manager in the Correctional Health department, you will work with healthcare professionals to provide world-class patient care to individuals in the judicial system. You will be responsible for providing clinical direction, oversight, and guidance for health assessments and clinical interventions. The standard shift for this position is 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide direct supervision for 24/7 clinical staff, including timecard approval, overtime authorization, scheduling, coaching, performance reviews, and progressive discipline - Maintain clinic compliance with NCCHC standards and document annual audits - Drive operational improvement and change management initiatives with nursing executive leadership - Coach, mentor, and train nursing staff to support growth and assess educational needs - Provide on-site orientation to new staff regarding job requirements, policies, and equipment use - Respond to clinical emergencies and provide immediate direction to clinical staff - Develop productivity and performance standards and monitor compliance - Develop clinic assignments to ensure patient care needs are met - Provide direct clinical care in accordance with policies, regulatory guidelines, and community standards - Develop clinic-specific operating procedures to promote operational effectiveness - Review nursing documentation and Electronic Health Record queues to ensure task completion - Ensure daily equipment and supplies are available - Communicate with staff through monthly meetings and ensure minutes are distributed and acknowledged - Assure completion of mandatory training and requirements, such as annual TST - Participate in interviewing, selection, orientation, and training of nursing staff MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Five years of experience as a Registered Nurse in a hospital or ambulatory care setting. 2. Two years of experience serving as a supervisory nurse or in a capacity involving clinical oversight of other nurses or medical staff. 3. A valid, unrestricted license as a Registered Nurse issued by the Arizona State Board of Nursing or a recognized multi-compact license state. 4. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing or higher may substitute for one year of the nursing experience requirement. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be able to work inside a jail, stand, walk, and bend for extended periods while handling a high volume of work and adapting to frequent changes. - Travel or floating to various clinical locations within a 5-mile radius is required. - Position may include day or night shift work, weekends, and holidays. - Must be able to respond to emergencies, maintain CPR and First Aid certification, perform chest compressions, push medical equipment, climb stairs, and lift patients on a gurney. - Must pass a fingerprint background check and maintain MCSO jail access. - Active and valid BLS, CPR, and First Aid Certifications meeting AHA curriculum standards (with in-person skills test) are required by the start date. - Valued but not required: Nursing experience in a correctional setting and Certified Correctional Health Professional (CCHP) certification. SELECTION PROCESS - Consideration is only given to candidates who submit online applications. - Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile. - Must pass a pre-employment background and fingerprint investigation, including drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive positions. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit an online application through the Maricopa County careers portal. 2. Ensure your Workday profile and contact information are up to date, as this is the primary method of communication. 3. If you require a reasonable accommodation under the ADA, contact MHRFeedback@maricopa.gov to initiate the interactive process. Do not attach accommodation requests to the application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Correctional Health - Location: 3250 W Lower Buckeye Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85009 - Job Type: Unclassified, Full time - Job Requisition ID: JR25122 - Shift: 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM (with potential for weekends and holidays) - Posting Date: August 18, 2026 - Application Deadline: August 31, 2026
ABOUT THE ROLE Located in the Department of Health, School Health Services Program, this position delivers comprehensive school-based healthcare to students across the District of Columbia. The role ensures timely access to primary care, preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and health education. The incumbent exercises a high level of independence in administering and managing assigned functions, ensuring compliance with District of Columbia and Department of Health policies and regulations. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Oversee and support a team of Nurses, ensuring effective clinical operations and compliance with health protocols. - Provide mentorship and clinical guidance to health suite staff, assisting with complex cases. - Supervise clinical service delivery, including first aid, emergency response, medication administration, screenings, and chronic disease management. - Coordinate staffing and work distribution based on patient needs, caseloads, and health suite capacity. - Monitor documentation and data entry to maintain accurate patient health records, immunizations, and screening results. - Analyze health suite data trends and recommend improvements to enhance patient health outcomes. - Serve as the primary health liaison for administrators, parents, guardians, and healthcare providers. - Lead communication and health education efforts on topics like chronic disease management, hygiene, and nutrition. - Ensure proper use of electronic health record systems and manage health suite supplies and inventory. - Support the development and evaluation of health programs, such as immunization drives and mental health initiatives. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. A graduate, bachelor's, associate degree, or diploma from an accredited professional nursing educational program (accredited by CCNE, COA, ACME, or a USDE-recognized body). 2. Foreign nursing school graduates must possess official certification from the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools. 3. Must have passed the National Council Licensure Examination. 4. Current, active, full, and unrestricted license or registration as a professional nurse from a State, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, or a US territory. 5. Specialized experience equivalent to at least one year of the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - At least 3 years of hands-on patient experience in a healthcare or school setting within a managerial role is strongly preferred. - Must possess CPR/AED certification and complete mandated continuing education requirements. - Must possess a valid driver's license to operate a government or personal vehicle for site visits and nurse trainings. - Designated as a Safety-Sensitive position: Must pass a criminal background check, traffic record check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol test. Employment may be disqualified based on the presence of marijuana, even with a medical card. Subject to periodic, random, post-accident, and return-to-duty drug and alcohol screenings. SELECTION PROCESS - Continuous Recruitment: Applications will be reviewed and screened every two weeks. Qualified applicants may be referred to the hiring manager throughout the open period until staffing needs are met. HOW TO APPLY - Apply through the official District of Columbia job portal using Job ID 33150. - The application window closes on 09/21/2026. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Agency: Department of Health - Location: 2201 Shannon Place SE - Schedule: Full-Time, Regular, Monday - Friday, 8:15 am - 4:45 pm - Grade: 13 (Pay Plan, Series and Grade: MS-0610-13) - Appointment Type: Management Supervisory Service (MSS) - At-will employment - Bargaining Unit: Not in a collective bargaining unit - Essential Designation: Emergency position (may be required to work, stay, or telework during declared emergencies to ensure continuity of medical facilities and public safety).
ABOUT THE ROLE Located in the District of Columbia Department of Health (DC Health), this position is part of the School Health Services Program. The incumbent serves as a Nurse Specialist (Nurse Educator) responsible for developing, coordinating, and delivering orientation, competency-based training, continuing education, and clinical skills validation for School Health Suite staff. The role promotes evidence-based practice, ensures compliance with nursing standards and regulatory requirements, and serves as a clinical resource to support high-quality healthcare delivery and improved student health outcomes. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Secure health and developmental history, record findings, and make critical health evaluations - Perform or request special screening, developmental, and laboratory tests, and interpret results - Evaluate total health care needs and develop plans to meet them - Provide physiological nursing care, monitor adherence to medical regimens, and deliver emergency services or crisis intervention - Evaluate nursing and medical aspects of the Plan of Care and make home visits when directed - Provide health care and preventive services including guidance on nutrition, common illnesses, and child development - Coordinate health care services with medical professionals and external agencies - Assist the supervisor with performance management, prepare reports, and maintain administrative records - Serve in a teaching capacity, schedule and participate in case conferences, quality assurance committees, and in-service presentations MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Education: Graduate or higher level degree in nursing from an accredited educational program in the area of expertise or specialty (required for Advanced Practice Nurse positions). 2. Experience: Specialized experience equivalent to at least one year at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression. 3. Preferred: At least 3 years of hands-on patient experience in a healthcare or school setting within a managerial role. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation with Automated External Defibrillator Component (CPR/AED). - Current license as a Registered Nurse and Advanced Practice Nurse in the District of Columbia. - National certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). - Valid driver's license to operate a government or personal vehicle for site visits and trainings. - Safety-Sensitive Designation: Must pass criminal background check, traffic record check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol test. Must comply with periodic, random, and reasonable suspicion drug screenings. Marijuana use is disqualifying even with a medical card. - Employment Sponsorship: Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without visa sponsorship. SELECTION PROCESS - Continuous Recruitment: Applications are reviewed and screened every two weeks. Qualified applicants may be referred to the hiring manager throughout the open period until staffing needs are met. - Agency Wide Consideration: Qualified individuals may be considered for other current open vacancies within DC Health for which they qualify. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit your application through the official DC Health job portal referencing Job ID 33147. 2. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your specialized experience, education, and all required licenses and certifications. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employment Type: Full-Time, Regular, Career Service - Term Appointment - Location: 2201 Shannon Place SE, Washington, D.C. (includes travel to community venues) - Agency: Department of Health - Grade: 12 (Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-0610-12) - Bargaining Unit: C13 (represented by DCNA, agency fee/dues may apply via payroll) - Tour of Duty: Monday - Friday, 8:15 AM - 4:45 PM - Date Opened: 08/17/2026 - Date Closed: 09/21/2026 - Area of Consideration: Open to the Public
ABOUT THE ROLE This is a professional nurse position with preparation in a specialized educational program that provides health care to students, staff, and prospective employees. The incumbent works under the supervision of the Chief School Physician and in accordance with written protocol. The work involves providing health care, including physical examinations, health promotion and maintenance, illness and disability prevention, guidance and counseling, and referrals. The Nurse Practitioner assesses the physical and psychological status of patients through interviews, health histories, and physical examinations. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Make nursing assessments of actual or potential health problems through case finding, health teaching, and counseling. - Obtain detailed medical histories to collect data on background, physical and mental condition, medications, and other pertinent information. - Perform physical examinations of students, staff, and prospective employees to assess health status. - Observe signs and symptoms associated with changes in physical and emotional health. - Discriminate between normal and abnormal findings, make referrals to appropriate services, and report to the Chief School Physician. - Review cases with the physician and participate in delineating standard treatment regimens to guide health program management. - Instruct, counsel, and guide students, employees, and their families toward achieving optimum health. - Interpret public health laws governing communicable diseases and enforce the physician's exclusion and re-admission policies. - Provide coverage for medical emergencies and perform hearing and vision screenings as needed. - Act as a resource person regarding health care. - Perform nursing diagnoses and treatments of human responses to actual or potential health problems through supportive or restorative care. - Develop and implement in-service training programs as needed. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Preparation in a specialized educational program for professional nursing. - Possession of a valid New York State License to practice as a Registered Professional Nurse at the time of appointment. - Possession of a valid New York State License as a Family Nurse Practitioner at the time of appointment. - Certification in Basic Cardiopulmonary Life Support (BCLS) at the time of appointment. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Residency requirement is waived. SELECTION PROCESS - Open Competitive Exam No. 66-442A. - There will be no written or oral test for this examination. - Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will receive a rating based upon an evaluation of their training and experience against the duties of the position being tested. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application during the continuous filing period. - Ensure all training and experience details are accurately documented for the evaluation process. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Appointing Authority: Board of Education - Vacancies: As they occur - Category: Civil Service Exams (Continuous) - Status: Open - Posted: May 1, 2024 - Closing: Open Until Filled