Indicator Developer - Health Outcomes Research

JOB SUMMARY:

The primary function of the Indicator Developer - Health Outcomes Research role is to provide evaluation and research support to the Nursing Quality Indicators for Research and Evaluation® (NQuIRE®) data system. Working with the Lead Scientist and Senior Manager, Evaluation & Monitoring, the role includes participating in the selection and development of quality indicators and data dictionaries based on RNAO’s nursing best practice guidelines (BPGs). 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide health research and epidemiological expertise to select and develop indicators for RNAO BPGs using a variety of appropriate resources and tools, including literature reviews, environmental scans, subject matter expert consultation, and other consensus-building methods.
• Lead indicator selection, development and alignment with provincial, national and international datasets with oversight by Lead Scientist.
• Develop, update and maintain) clinically significant, measurable, relevant human resource and BPG-specific structure, process and outcome indicators based on a rigorous methodology for RNAO BPGs, using the best available evidence and expert consultation. Identify emerging issues and trends from analysis and interpretation of NQuIRE® data related to BPG recommendations, interventions and their outcomes when using best practice guidelines.
• Engage with external collaborators, including subject matter experts and partner organizations, to seek feedback on indicators and ensure they are of high quality with rigorous, evidence-based development methodologies. 
• Meet with Best Practice Spotlight Organization® (BPSO®) to support their selection of indicators, as well as data collection and data submission of indicators in the NQuIRE® data system. 
• Participate in panel discussions to get insight into indicators and consolidate results from validation surveys
• Evaluate indicators based on their use and application to BPGs and NQuIRE®.
• Provide professional and clinical expertise/guidance with respect to the development, implementation and monitoring of standards and measures.
• Participate in data quality audits, data analysis and report writing related to NQuIRE®.
• Contribute to improving and enhancing the processes developed for evaluating BPG implementation.
• Contribute to the development of quality assurance methods for indicator development and use. 
• Provide expert advice through orientation sessions, consultations related to indicator selection, and indicator refinement and development of new indicators. 
• Assist with drafting and preparing manuscripts for publication. 
• Provide evaluation and research support to the IABPG guideline development, implementation and evaluation processes. 
• Work collaboratively with senior management, monitoring and evaluation team, project coordinators, IT database/web developers, and guideline development and implementation science teams using strategic and tactical approaches to develop, implement, and maintain NQuIRE® indicators. 
• Contribute to other RNAO departments and research projects in support of projects and reports.
• Be a champion for data quality and act as a primary resource for and train other staff and collaborators about data quality issues and approaches related to data collection, entry and processing.
• Produce work updates, status reports and presentations for staff and collaborators as required.
• Other relevant duties as required by the role.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

• Registered nurse with in-depth, demonstrated understanding of indicator development. 
• Current registration is in good standing with the College of Nurses of Ontario and RNAO.
• Master’s degree in nursing, health research, informatics or a related field is required
• Two or more years of experience in research and evaluation methods in any of epidemiology, healthcare quality, quality improvement, patient safety or health research methodology (HRM). 
• Familiarity with provincial, national and international data sets is critical.
• In-depth, demonstrated understanding of evidence-based practice and experience searching scientific and grey literature. 
• Development of structural, process and outcome indicators from evidence-based guideline resources and expert opinions.
• Sound knowledge and demonstrated skills in quality improvement and patient safety measurement, epidemiological and statistical methods and applied research
• Superior organizational skills and self-directed work ethic to effectively manage multiple data indicator-based projects in various stages of development. 
• Excellent analytical skills, presentation skill and detail-orientated. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills to deal effectively with staff and external collaborators, to synthesize and present information, to prepare manuscripts and to support development of the NQuIRE® data system and the work of the monitoring and evaluation team. 
• Proven experience in working with databases to support data quality checks. 
• Strong survey methodology and development is an asset.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively while maintaining a professional work ethic and attitude. 
• Two or more years of experience in indicator development or performance measurement related to quality improvement initiatives in nursing practice 
• Proficient in statistical software, Word, Excel, and other software packages and programming languages currently used to collate and analyze health data.
• The ability to express oneself effectively through both written and oral communication in English is essential; French, Spanish, Portuguese or Mandarin is an asset).

EFFORT:

• May be required to travel to official sites for observation and assessment of data collection, including possibility of overnight stays (travel reimbursement will be provided) 
• Workflow requires continuous re-prioritizing of workload, meeting multiple demands, and working overtime as required.
• Excellent writing and editing skills to compose clear, concise, accurate correspondence and reports or other material.
• Have strong attention to detail and also can effectively communicate analytical results in brief summary
• Continuous concentration is required to read, screen, and appraise a large volume of information daily, prepare data tables and summary reports, and to consult as appropriate.
• Sight, touch and hearing are used to read, proofread, write, and analyze information and to answer enquiries.
• Sitting is required frequently in the job for more than 2 hours at a time to read and write information, work on the computer, answer the telephone, and attend meetings.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Works in a climate-controlled office with some exposure to distractions, interruptions and stress from multiple demands.
• Typical conditions are such that no risk or injury is present. 

RNAO is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable and accessible environment, where all employees feel valued, respected and supported. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates who can help us build a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we live. Accommodations are available to all candidates identifying a need during all or any parts of the selection process.