The Value of the Dermatology Nurse

My name is Dr Ted Rudolph. I am a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon for a multifaceted, high-volume practice in Vero Beach, FL, with a current medical staff of 1 registered nurse, 3 licensed practical nurses, and 2 medical assistants. I pride myself on having a well-trained nursing staff, and the Dermatology Nurses’ Association (DNA) annual conventions have been a big part of that training.

My nursing staff runs the narrow-band UVB light box on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for approximately 25 to 30 patients each day. This treatment has been life changing for many patients with a multitude of diagnoses, and we have offered it for more than 15 years. The DNA’s “Joan Shelk Fundamentals of Phototherapy” course has been instrumental, providing my nurses with knowledge on phototherapy and instruction on how to be a phototherapy technician. This class alone has increased patient care in my practice.

My nurses also understand the pathophysiology associated with difficult diagnoses. For example, with an allergic contact dermatitis rash, my staff can take more time with patients to perform patch testing, explain helpful tools to avoid the eruption again, and provide counseling on what to do if the rash returns. Another example is mycosis fungoides; expanding my nursing staff ’s medical knowledge of this disease has benefitted my practice and helped us provide the best patient care. In addition, I have noticed a definite decrease in medical errors because my nurses have a better understanding of what I am treating and why I am treating it a certain way. They are “tuned in” to the signs and symptoms of many skin conditions, with a solid foundation in dermatology.

Sending my nursing staff to DNA conventions enables them to bring back a professional skill set and superior knowledge in the field of dermatology. This not only complements my practice, but it also helps serve my patients with continuity of care and enhances the patient experience. Ultimately, the number of patients I see has increased and our office workflow has improved because my nursing staff is so knowledgeable about treatment plans.

The DNA has provided a wealth of knowledge for each of my medical staff members, and investing in my nursing staff ’s continuing education at the DNA’s annual convention has proven to be invaluable. It is also tax write-off for my practice—a win-win. I have no hesitation paying for my staff members’ annual DNA membership fees because it has added great value to my practice. I highly recommend that physicians consider the DNA’s annual convention for their nursing staff .