Position Summary:

The Registered Nurse specializing in PeriOperative nursing practice performs nursing activities in the preoperative, intra-operative, and postoperative phase of the patient's surgical experience. This position requires the RN to work effectively in Same Day Surgery, Post Anesthesia Care, the procedure room, and in the Operating Room in the circulating nurse role. The position also includes on-call hours for surgical emergencies. Note: Departmental competencies/orientation checklist will be given out during departmental orientation.

1. Patient Care
   1. Continuously assesses the patient's physiological and psychological status before, during and after surgery and recognizes abnormals. Documents in thorough, timely and accurate fashion that accurately reflects the cares provided.
   2. Anticipates, interprets, and acts on patient data to prevent problems/complications.
   3. Identifies priorities and implements care based on sound nursing judgment, individual patient needs, and facility procedure and standards.
   4. Able to perform in crises or complex situations, promptly grasping situation and performing role.
   5. Functions as a patient advocate by protecting the patient from harm during the perioperative period.
   6. Recommends what changes are needed in policy and procedure to assure quality care.
   7. Assists in admission, transfer and discharge of patients in assigned areas, completing necessary forms and referrals. Assures that educational needs are met for all patients.
   8. Anticipates and coordinates admission, transfer and discharge needs of patients to assure timely and smooth transition for patients.
2. Skills
   1. Demonstrates knowledge of aseptic techniques, a familiarity with surgical instrumentation and equipment, and the principles of microbiology maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment.
   2. Performs nursing skills according to REHC policies and procedures using proper body mechanics and universal precautions.
   3. Keeps current in nursing knowledge and attends educational offerings that enhance skills.
   4. Performs the work of the department independently with elements of accuracy, control and efficiency.
   5. Assists with preparing, processing and providing functioning supplies, equipment, and instruments to ensure their economic and efficient function for the patient and personnel.
   6. Anticipates and provides supplies consistently in a timely fashion. Keeps assigned departments and areas supplied and neatly organized using systematic inventory and material control principles/works with Purchasing Department.
   7. Assists with the research and evaluation of new equipment and supplies.
   8. Contributes to the quality and safety efforts of the facility by providing honest and valuable input.
3. Collaboration
   1. Works cooperatively with other departments and personnel to provide patient care continuity.
   2. Seeks opportunities to help out other staff contributing to team work and spirit.
   3. Assists with patient scheduling.
   4. Promotes a working atmosphere conductive to learning.
   5. Participates willingly in the orientation of staff and evaluating their readiness for independent functioning.
4. Work Habits
   1. Adheres to the Bill of Rights, Vulnerability and Confidentiality policies.
   2. Strives to receive no negative customer complaints.
   3. Treats patients and all others with courtesy and respect.
   4. Keeps self current and complies with Department of Health/Health and Human Services and Rules and Regulations, Fire Safety, OSHA and other regulations.
   5. Participates in continuing ed programs and staff meetings directed toward personal and professional growth and development.
   6. Contributes to the knowledge of staff by giving in-services and reporting on new developments in areas of job responsibility.
   7. Does not abuse sick time and work break policies. Comes to work prepared to meet the daily needs of the patient and the work load.
   8. Demonstrates flexibility on a daily basis to meet the demands of the changing environment.
   9. Follows Policy and Procedure manual found on the "G" drive.