JOB SUMMARY

Provides high quality, age and population specific, direct clinical care according to the Scope of Service for the Medical/Surgical unit and within RN License. Demonstrates knowledgeable nursing skills to implement ideal, evidence based, best practice, patient care through on-going updates and education. Maintains safe and knowledgeable practice with use of equipment and technology. Acts as a resource on the unit and throughout the organization and assists other departments as requested. Utilizes resources to minimize risks and promote safety. Adheres to and practices the SJH Corporate Compliance Program and participates in Performance Improvement activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Safety
Obtains and reviews all patient data using observational, interviewing, interpretation and critical thinking skills for all patients to develop an individualized, safe plan of care. Identifies risk factors and provides interventions for safe patient care and environment. Implements measures to prevent injury from environmental hazards. Ensures equipment is functioning properly before use and reports malfunctioning equipment according to unit procedures. Follows hospital policies and established safe practices such as National Patient Safety Goals, CDC guidelines, fall risk assessments, proper techniques for nursing interventions, and nurse hand off protocols. Initiates and completes Event Reports for unexpected outcomes and near misses.

Care Planning
Exercises critical thinking and best practices and professional nursing standards within the context of a multidisciplinary approach to development of patient care planning. Addresses patient and family’s spiritual/emotional/physical needs utilizing a holistic approach. Develops a [plan of care that is unique to each patient’s needs, reflecting measurable goals that are mutually set with the patient and family. Identifies continuity of care needs for discharge and follow up using appropriate resources. Evaluates patient’s understanding and response to the plan of care and evaluates the effectiveness of interventions towards established goals, and outcome expectations. Completes SBAR report with charge nurse focusing on patient goals and plan of care for a safe discharge home.

Direct Patient Care
Incorporates teaching/education into all aspects of patient care and nursing practice. Assesses age and population specific and developmentally appropriate patient and family education needs. Assesses readiness to learn based on patient perception, education level and expectation of care. Initiates and incorporates patient and family education into the plan of care. Provides clear information to assist the patient to make informed decisions. Encourages patients’ active involvement in their care. Communicates status report to patient’s and family as appropriate.

Teamwork
Assists and completes daily routines (i.e. crash cart checks, narcotic counts, glucometer controls). Keeps department clean, orderly and stocks daily. Functions in the charge nurse role and accepts increased supervisory responsibilities as requested. Uses supplies and equipment within safe parameters. Acts as a resource to others. Delegates responsibly. Floats to other departments as needed. Keeps competencies
current.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Required Licenses
Current RN License with authority to practice in WY and BLS required at time of hire. ACLS preferred.
FUNCTIONAL DEMANDS
Working Conditions
Hospital medical/surgical unit. May float to other nursing units. Frequent stressful situations.
Physical Requirements
75% of time standing and walking. Irregular work hours, meals, and breaks. Must possess sight/hearing senses to meet job requirements. Intermittent sitting and computer use. Must possess the ability to lift, push, pull, and move patients, equipment and supplies. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

Direct Reports
NA

Reports to
Director of Medical Surgical Services