Surgical Nurse

Job Summary:

The Surgical Nurse is a professional, organized, reliable team player who plays a vital role in the Practice. The Surgical Nurse works with a licensed Oral Surgeon and other clinical and non-clinical staff as assigned in the performance of quality, caring clinical oral surgery as follows:

· Adept at assigned clinical procedures.

· Perform “Start of Day” and “End of Day” procedures as outlined in printed documentation available at each office location. Such documentation may be amended from time to time based upon the needs of the Practice.

· Maintain records of narcotic and other medications and ensure that all medications are maintained in a locked medication cabinet but are ready and available for procedures as required.

· Prepare the patient for surgery, including: application of heart monitor, blood pressure cuff, pulse oximeter, nasal cannula and sterile drape.

· Function as an anesthesia assistant during surgery, including maintaining patient’s airway, observing for apnea, monitoring vital signs and oxygen saturation levels and notifying doctor immediately of abnormal findings.

· Perform and document post-operative care for surgical patients, including monitoring airway, vital signs and Aldrete scale; reviewing discharge instructions with patient and escort and answering any questions; contacting patients/family members within 24 hours of surgery to determine patient’s post-operative condition and answering any additional questions or concerns.

· Track biopsy specimens and results to ensure that specimens are picked up and results received in a timely fashion and that established policy is followed regarding dissemination of biopsy information.

· Maintain appropriate inventory of implant parts and pieces and ensure that the parts and pieces are in the correct office location to ensure quality patient care.

· Take quality x-rays (panoramic and cephalometric), including post-op x-rays, if ordered.

· Maintain sufficient inventory of medications and supplies.

· Maintain CONFIDENTIALITY of all patient information.

· As needed, assist Front Desk Coordinator and/or Financial Coordinator with seating patients, taking medical history, etc.

· Administer CPR and first aid under the direction of a licensed professional.

· Adhere to all required OSHA and health regulations

· Additional or different duties as may be assigned from time to time based upon the needs of the Practice.

Education and Experience:

· Graduate of an approved school of Professional Nursing.

· One (1) year of experience in a dental or medical office is preferred.

· Ability to administer CPR and first aid under the direction of a licensed professional.

· Thorough understanding of cross-contamination and how to prevent it.

· Successful completion of Nitrous Oxide class.

· Understanding of OSHA regulations and CDC guidelines.

Certificates, Licenses and Registration:

· Registered Nurse or Licensed Professional Nurse, with an active license in the State of Ohio.

· Radiology License required. License must be active and valid at all times.

· Successful completion of CPR for Healthcare Providers class. Certificate must be active and valid at all times.

Physical or Sensory Requirements (with or without the aid of mechanical devices):

The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Job Description: Surgical Nurse

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· Must be able to intermittently sit, stand, walk, stoop, bend or reach throughout the work day.

· Must be able to perform detailed work, using arms, hands and fingers to handle and feel objects.

· Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.

· Must possess sight/hearing senses or utilize prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately so that the requirements of this position will be fully met. Specific vision abilities include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

· Must function independently, have flexibility, personal integrity and the ability to work effectively with patients and their families, fellow employees and supervisors, as well as the general public.

· Must be able to relate to and work with emotionally upset people at times.

· Must be physically able to administer CPR.

· Must be physically able to assist drowsy patients after anesthesia.

· Must be able to lift, push, and pull a minimum of fifty (50) pounds.

Work Environment:

· Works in surgical and back office areas as well as throughout the facility.

· Occasionally exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals and the risk of radiation.

· Is subject to frequent interruptions.

· Involved with and communicates with patients and their families, fellow employees and supervisors, as well as the general public.

· At times, is subject to hostile and emotionally upset patients and their families.

Since everyone within the practice works on a time schedule governed by patients’ appointments, the work and general environment may become somewhat hectic at times. It is essential that the employee is able, both physically and emotionally, to effectively handle the normal anxieties associated with the position.

Competencies:

· Is able to “get along” with patients and their families, fellow employees and supervisors, as well as the general public.

· Can work equally well in a team environment or individually, as assigned.

· Can accept constructive criticism.

· Has a desire and ability to work with the public.

· Is organized, motivated, committed and self-directed.

· Has a positive attitude about the Practice, the services provided by the Practice and any products sold by the Practice.

· Has the ability to communicate and express thoughts and ideas clearly and completely.

· Maintains a professional demeanor, particularly in stressful situations.

· Has the ability to complete tasks in a specific timeframe.

· Increases knowledge and skills through self study and by attending courses and seminars

· Is able to speak and write grammatically correct English.

· Is able to quickly grasp relevant concepts regarding duties and responsibilities.

· Has dependable attendance and can be relied on to follow through with assigned tasks.