JOB SUMMARY:
Performs the primary functions of a Registered Nurse in assessing, planning implementing, and evaluating the care of assigned patients in the Pre-op and/or Recovery area as applicable. Is responsible for adhering to the standards of behavior and nursing practice, for managing all assigned personnel, supplies and equipment within the assigned area, and for promoting teamwork with physicians and personnel of other departments. Is able to function independently with only occasional or limited supervision. Responsible for performing patient care duties in the care of Infant, Pediatric, Adolescent, Adult and Geriatric age patients. Must be able to follow established standards of PAR care as well as approved nursing and facility-wide policies and procedures. May be required to supervise and manage Licensed Practical Nurses, and other Surgical Services Assistive Personnel. Supports the Mission, Vision, and Value Statements of EHS and complies with DNV requirements as outlined by policies and procedures.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
Current active TN RN license required, or Compact License in the state of residency. One year minimum of experience preferred in the department of employment. BLS and ACLS certification current or within six months of hire. PALS certification preferred. Seeks programs of continuing education and maintains professional knowledge and skills consistent with areas of responsibilities as required.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
PCTs
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS:
Moderate to sustained walking, standing, bending, and stooping required for deliverance of patient care. Moderate to strenuous physical exercise required in lifting up to, but not limited to, 50 lbs. on an occasional basis. Must be capable of diverse patient interaction; exemplify self-control; able to withstand tense situations in close areas; and respond to emergency situations without panic. Must be able to cope with extended hours and still maintain competence to provide safe, quality patient care. Must exemplify self-control, does not panic easily and responds to emergency situations. Fairly diversified job requiring intermittent to sustained mental effort and organization or planning.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Exposure to communicable disease and potential violent situations. OSHA Category I - Tasks that involve exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues.
Pre-op Holding:
1) Utilizes the Nursing Process to provide quality care for the surgical patient, according to AORN “Perioperative Standards of Practice” and EHS policies and procedures.
2) Provides pre-op and ongoing patient assessment, using knowledge of the principles of growth and development to plan and provide age appropriate care.
3) Using assessment findings and knowledge of the scheduled procedure, plans for routine surgical needs and patient specific needs. Ensures that pre-operative chart is complete prior to patient going to OR/GI Lab.
4) Functions as part of the interdisciplinary team to plan, deliver, and evaluate goal focused, individualized, age specific care for all surgical patients.
5) Appropriately follows procedure for patient identification and identification of the surgical site.
