JOB SUMMARY

Provides age and population specific direct clinical care to neonate, infant, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patient populations. Delivers patient care according to the Scope of Service for the Emergency Department. Adheres to and practices the SJH Corporate Compliance Program and participates in Performance Improvement activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Patient Care

Obtain and review all patient data using; observational, interviewing, interpretation and critical thinking skills in an age specific population and developmentally 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 2 patient identifiers gives medication safely and accurately according to policy and procedure. Organizes and prioritizes care of multiple patients with varying levels of acuity in a timely and efficient manner with a positive attitude.

Manages specimen collection, handling and disposition according to hospital policy. Labels blood specimens at patient bedside. Addresses patient and family's 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 procedure. Initiates and completes computerized Event Reports for unusual events consistently. Reports near misses.

Patient & Family Education

Assess patient and family education needs based on; a) age/population, b) developmental level, c) readiness to learn based on patient perception, educational level and expectation of care, d) patient understanding, e) available coping mechanisms, and f) outcome expectations. Initiates and incorporates patient/family education into plan of care and nursing practice. Identifies continuity of care needs for discharge and follow-up using appropriate resources. Communicates up-dated status report and clear information to patient/family to make informed decisions.

Unit Specific Performance

Assists and completes daily routines i.e. crash cart checks, narcotic count, urine controls, glucometer checks. Keeps the department clean, orderly and stocks daily. Functions in the charge nurse role as assigned. Completes and signs daily charge nurse form. Completes all documentation, utilizing the appropriate forms/systems (ED Flow Sheet, Trauma Flow Sheet, Procedure Sedation Packet, OR Packet, signed computerized discharge instructions and telephone number, Patient Profile completed 100% in Paragon. Documents procedure/treatment and supplies to reflect and support appropriate charges. Charges supplies and medications accurately at time of use. Responds appropriately in management of Code Blue, Trauma Protocols and Activation, Disaster Preparedness, and Crisis Intervention. 

Administers immunizations and flu injections to hospital employees. Completes appropriate paperwork and discharge instruction to employees. Demonstrates knowledge, set-up, and proficiency with use of equipment: cardiac monitor, monitor station at nurses' desk, IV pumps, Level 1 fluid/blood warmer, radio/dispatch, warming lamp, central/arterial line, chest tube/atrium system, temporary pacemaker, airway cart, adult and pediatric airway rolls.

Triage Responsibilities

Completed documentation. Assigns appropriate acuity level per classification systems. Keep charge nurses apprised of patients waiting. Adhere to patient flow protocol from triage to ED. 

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education

ASN Required, BSN preferred

Minimum Work Experience

Required: Two years Emergency Department experience. Demonstrated critical thinking skills and a professional style of communication. Basic computer skills. 

Required Licenses

Current RN License with the authority to practice in the State of Wyoming and BLS required at time of hire. ACLS and ENPC or PALS required at time of hire. TNCC or ATCN required at time of hire. CPI required within 6 months of hire.