Job Description

The RN, Registered Nurse Discharge Coordinator, plays a critical role in ensuring timely, safe, and well-organized patient discharges from Beacon’s acute care hospitals. This position serves as a key liaison among hospitalists, specialists, nursing, case management, ancillary departments, and patients. The nurse ensures that when a patient is medically stable and ready for discharge, all clinical, logistical, and communication barriers are resolved—supporting a seamless transition to outpatient care.

Day Shift - Monday - Friday - 7am - 4pm - No Weekends.

Key Responsibilities

Discharge Planning & Coordination

• Collaborates daily with the H ospitalist Team to identify estimated discharge dates and address clinical or disposition barriers.
• Partners with nursing, case management, and ancillary departments to ensure coordinated discharge planning.
• Meets with patients and families to prepare for discharge—arranging follow-up appointments, securing specialist instructions, and assisting with post-acute placement paperwork.
• Keeps patients and families informed about discharge timing, medication changes, and care instructions.
• Connects patients with a primary care provider if they do not have one, ensuring appropriate post-discharge follow-up.
• Refers patients with chronic conditions to Care Coordination when ongoing support is needed.
• Reviews patient records to confirm completeness and that all medical concerns are addressed prior to discharge.
• Communicates complex discharge needs to the patient’s primary care physician when there is a high risk of readmission.
• Performs post-discharge follow-up calls to confirm smooth transitions and address emerging needs.
• Assists with patient education related to discharge medications and care instructions.

Quality Improvement & Collaboration

• Collects and analyzes data related to length of stay, discharge barriers, and utilization trends , preparing reports for leadership.
• Identifies process improvements and presents recommendations to relevant committees to enhance the quality of patient care.
• Participates in hospitalist department meetings , providing updates on discharge outcomes and improvement efforts.
• Contributes to organizational efforts to close gaps in care and improve patient transitions.

Professional and Organizational Responsibilities

• Actively participates in department meetings and completes all required education, competencies, and health requirements on time.
• Maintains RN licensure and required certifications (e.g., BCLS/CPR) in good standing.
• Adheres to infection control, safety, and regulatory compliance standards.
• Demonstrates flexibility in schedule and is available to work overtime or alternate shifts when needed.

Education & Experience

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program with a current RN license in the State of Indiana.
• Experience in discharge planning, case management, or leadership in an acute care or similar healthcare setting is preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong knowledge of clinical care practices and discharge processes.
• Excellent communication, counseling, and interpersonal skills for working with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated problem-solving, critical thinking, and organizational abilities.
• Effective time management skills; able to prioritize independently and work efficiently under pressure.
• Proficiency in relevant healthcare technology systems and documentation platforms.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Works in fast-paced clinical settings with varying daily demands.
• May require travel between hospital sites and referral locations.
• Must be able to perform the physical duties of the role, including standing, walking, and assisting with patient needs as required.

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