The RN staff nurse has the same definition as the RN charge nurse and functions in much the same way except he/she is not in charge of the shift. The staff nurse must be knowledgeable in disease processes, current treatment modalities and experienced with the facility’s technical equipment. Assessment skills are required. An assertive nature is preferred. Must be able to convey over the phone or in person to the physician a patient’s condition. The staff nurse may be assigned to the ER, where assessment skills are critical. The staff nurse will follow hospital policy and procedures and promote teamwork. Mandatory attendance of 10 or 12 staff meetings per year.

Additional job duties or functions may be requested per administration to assist in other areas of the hospital within your capabilities.

 QUALIFICATIONS:

 Graduate of accredited School of Nursing. May have diploma, Associates or Bachelors of Science Degree in Nursing. Current licensure in Louisiana. Basic Life Support (BLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP), and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) required within 6 months of employment. Ten continuing education hours required yearly.

Job Knowledge:

Understands use and limitations of equipment

Familiar with standard methods and techniques

Possess critical thinking skills, decisive judgment

Capable of collecting, receiving, processing, testing, and storing specimens

Setup and adjustment of equipment

Basic knowledge of specialty areas in the hospital

Basic knowledge of regulations

RESPONSIBLE TO:

Administration, Director of Nursing, and Physicians

Mental:

Must be able to promote harmonious relationships among staff, visitors, patients, and physicians

Must conduct self in a professional manner at all times

Must accept assignments within job description

Must recognize/respect chain of command

Must not steal from staff, patients, visitors or the hospital.

Must control self emotionally and maintain a stable psyche

Be able to perform job skills

Must utilize safety precautions, protect and provide safety for the patient (bed low, rails up, call bell in reach)

Must have command of manual dexterity to work with instruments, needles, etc.

Sensory:

Must be able to see clearly (corrective wear acceptable)

Must be able to hear adequately (hearing aid acceptable)

Must be able to speak clearly for proper communication

Additional Job Specifications:

Exposure to hazards such as bleach, disinfectant, blood-borne pathogens (such as HIV, Hepatitis, viruses, bacteria and resistant bacteria), etc.