GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The staff nurse is a licensed nurse who provides competent, compassionate nursing care to patients and families under the direct guidance and supervision of a physician. The RN must be able to work with physicians and other staff members to ensure a quality-based, customer-oriented flow of work throughout the ambulatory practice. The RN serves as a resource person for the clinical/clerical support staff.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

* Provides physical care and emotional support to patients and families under direct supervision of a physician.

* Participates in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of nursing care and treatment plans; observes reports and records pertinent patient information into Epic in accordance with Medical Dermatology protocols; identifies patient care needs and utilizes nursing resources appropriately.

* Supports and reinforces patient teaching plan, educates patients about proper use of medications. Provides instruction to patients about wound care.

* Administers medications within parameters defined by Dermatology Service after successful orientation; performs nursing procedures within the parameters defined by the Dermatology Service.

* Participates in Quality Assurance activities; supports peers and colleagues in maintaining established standards of care.

* Triages patient phone calls. Informs patients of laboratory and pathology reports and monitor all biopsies to ensures that all necessary therapies are administered as scheduled by the physician.

* Participates in developing and implementing new ideas in nursing practice; participates in daily activities conducive to the comfort and safety of patients, visitors and staff.

* Photographs patients with various skin conditions using a variety of photographic procedures, techniques and equipment; obtains patient consent.

* Appropriately utilizes and conserves equipment and supplies. Orders medical supplies and maintains appropriate inventories.

* Provides input to the Ambulatory Nurse Manager regarding perceived unit needs.

* Ensures that the physical environment is maintained. Establishes and enforces fire and safety regulations for the practice, following established protocols, and ensuring compliance with Joint Commission, OSHA, and Hospital guidelines.

* Troubleshoots routine/non-routine problems and takes measures to correct/handle issue.

* The individual in this position must demonstrate appropriate knowledge of the principals of growth and development over the life span of the patient. In addition, he/she must possess the ability to assess patient data relative to age specific needs and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable):

Provides coverage in the absence of Ambulatory Nurse Manager or Nursing Coordinator

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

* Maintains and updates clinical knowledge and skills.

* Participates in relevant continuing education programs.

* Attends Dermatology Nurses Association meetings on rotation with other Dermatology RN and LPN staff.

* Understanding of human anatomy and medical terminology.

* Ability to assess medical history of patient, as well as patient concerns, and to determine any limitations/contraindications.

* Ability to recognize emergency situations and respond appropriately. Knowledge of locations of emergency equipment and procedures.

* Able to read and write English.

* Knowledge of universal precautions.

* Effective interpersonal and communications skills.

* Attention to detail.

* Ability to provide compassionate care to patients.

* Ability to lift over 5 lbs. Possesses knowledge of and practices proper body mechanics.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Describe the conditions in which the work is performed.

Directly supports the patient clinical workflow within a busy specialty medical clinic Monday - Friday and occasional Saturdays.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, and/or REGISTRATIONS (if applicable):

* Current Massachusetts licensure as a Registered Nurse required

* CPR certification required

EDUCATION: Specify minimum education and clearly indicate if preferred or required

* Graduated from an accredited Nursing Program required

* Associates in Nursing required, Bachelor's of Science in Nursing preferred

EXPERIENCE: Specify minimum creditable years of experience and clearly indicate if preferred or required

1-2 years of experience as an RN preferred