RN Infusion (Pool/PRN)

JOB SUMMARY
Specializes in the support and care for patients diagnosed with cancer. Approaches patients with empathy and care, administers chemotherapy treatments, educates patients about their diseases and manage their illness and cancer related symptoms. Responsibilities include: chemotherapy administration, blood product administration, intravenous catheter care, medication administration, venipuncture, patient and family education, emergency care of oncology patients, and patient follow up for pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patient populations. Expected to cross train in clinic functions and duties for support as staffing requires. On occasion, will facilitate care of oncology patients in other hospital departments. Delivers services according to the Scope of Service for OPM. Adheres to and practices the SJH Corporate Compliance Program and participates in Performance Improvement activities.  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Patient Care
Obtains and reviews all patient data using observational, interviewing, interpretation and critical thinking skills in an age specific population and developmental appropriate manner. Identifies risk factors and provides for patient safety. Implements measures to prevent injury from environmental hazards. Practices autonomously and consistently with professional nursing standards. Identifies changes in patient status, exercises critical thinking and independent judgment within the context of a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. Develops a plan of care that is unique to each patient's needs, evaluates patient response to plan of care and reflects measurable goals that are mutually set with the patient. Evaluates patient response to pain management interventions. Offers alternative pain management therapies. Demonstrates knowledge and awareness of medication action, side effects and protocols for use. Using two patient identifiers, gives medication safely and accurately according to hospital policy. Labels blood specimens at patient bedside. Addresses patient and family spiritual and emotional needs utilizing a holistic approach. Uses supplies and equipment within safe parameters. Ensures equipment is functioning properly before use. Reports equipment malfunction following the appropriate reporting procedures. Initiates and completes computerized Event Reports for unusual events consistently. On occasion, assists Oncologist and Advanced Practice Nurse with clinics by checking patients in, updating medications and other pertinent medical history, drawing labs, giving injections and providing on-going education and support. Assists providers with survivorship care plans and follow-up surveillance. Knowledge of oral chemotherapy program to assist clinic staff in management. Work with providers to monitor labs, provide patient education and monitor symptom management.

Patient and Family Education
Assesses patient and family education, spiritual and emotional needs based on: age/population, developmental level, readiness to learn based on patient perception, education level and expectation of care, patient understanding, available coping mechanisms, and outcome expectations. Initiates and incorporates patient and family education into the plan of care and nursing practice. Identifies continuity of care needs for discharge and follow-up appropriate resources. Communicates updated status reports and clear information to patient and family to make informed decisions. 

Unit Specific Duties
Collaborates with patient, family and interdisciplinary team to systematically assess and reassess patient's condition. Demonstrates appropriate knowledge base and skill set needed to safely care for complex oncology patients. Demonstrates the ability to multitask and use time management skills to expedite appropriate patient care and treatment. Promotes teamwork and collegiate working relationships. Using and interdisciplinary approach, develops a care and treatment plan which is uniquely designed for each oncology patient. Demonstrates accountability as an individual and team member in anticipating and meeting on-going patient and family needs. Observes safe work practices, provides input on safety issues and promotes a safe work environment. Demonstrates appropriate knowledge base about disease processes and medication infusions and treatments given to non-oncology patients. Consistently demonstrates effective communication skills using active listening, written, verbal and informational technology skills. Uses appropriate delegation skills to manage clinical assignment in an organized and efficient manner. Demonstrates the ability to assess and plan for complex discharge needs of the oncology patient. Assists in clinic functions including, but not limited to, clerical duties, education and patient care based upon staffing needs and patient load.

Training
Will attend occasional hands-on trainings at the Huntsman Cancer Center in order to stay up to date with best practices in oncology and keep SJH aligned as a Huntsman affiliate. 

JOB REQUIREMENTS
Minimum Education
Required: ASN, ONS chemotherapy/biotherapy administration course within 6 weeks of hire or national oncology certification.
Preferred: BSN, Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN)

Minimum Work Experience
Required: Minimum of three years nursing experience in acute care. Must be able to communicate professionally and effectively. Excellent interpersonal and customer service and phone skills. Basic computer skills. 

Required Licenses: Current RN license with the authority to practice in the State of Wyoming. Current BLS. ACLS certification required within 6 months of hire. 

FUNCTIONAL DEMANDS
Working Conditions
Hospital based outpatient oncology department. Occasional stressful situations. Occasional need to provide care in inpatient departments. Must be on-site at the St. John's Health campus of other facilities to fulfill the responsibilities of this role. 

Physical Requirements
Adequate sight/hearing and other senses to perform job requirements. Ability to lift 50 pounds. Ability to push, pull, bend, reach. Intermittent standing, walking, kneeling, sitting, computer and phone use. 

Patient Focus (Nursing)
• Is dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of patients
• Gets firsthand patient feedback and uses it for improvements
• Establishes and maintains effective relationships with patients and gains their trust and respect