Provides care in the outpatient services area and phase I PACU directed toward meeting both the psychosocial and physical needs of the patient. Is willing and able to float amongst departments and function in a nursing role to aid where help is needed. Addresses the psychosocial, physical and general aspects of care related to the surgical environment. Communicates with physicians and/or anesthesia providers continuously and as needed about patient condition. Participates in performance improvement and CQI activities. \
- Coordinates and supervises patient care.
- Gives care to the patient, reflecting flexibility in rules and regulations, as indicated by individual patient needs.
- Makes decisions reflecting knowledge of facts, knowledge of diseases/surgical conditions, care required and good judgment.
- Performance reflects knowledge in all areas of care specific to outpatient surgery (i.e., GI, autologous, conscious sedation).
- Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly.
- Electronic documentation meets current standards and policies.
- Organizes and manages nursing activities reflecting due consideration for patients’ needs and the needs of the facility and staff.
- Utilizes initiative; strives to maintain steady level of productivity; a self starter; compatible and supportive; a team player.
- Knowledge of medications and IV fluids and their correct administration, based on age of the patient and patient’s clinical condition.
- Follows the five medication rights and reduces the potential for medication errors.
- Ability to perform a head-to-toe preoperative assessment on all patients and reassesses, as needed postoperatively. This includes pediatric, geriatric and the general patient population.
- Demonstrates ability to provide specific care to postoperative neonate, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients.
- Ability to adequately assess and reassess pain. Utilizes appropriate pain management techniques. Educates the patient and family regarding pain management.
- Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.
- Ability to formulate an individualized plan of care, as indicated, and evaluates for effectiveness.
- Formulates a teaching plan, based on identified patient learning needs, and evaluates effectiveness of learning; family is included in teaching, as appropriate, from preop to discharge.
- Provides patient with explanation and verbal reassurance consistently.
- Identifies physical symptoms and changes and takes appropriate action in a timely manner.
- Knowledge of cardiac monitoring and can identify dysrhythmias.
- Communicates appropriately and clearly to Outpatient Services Nurse Manager, Charge RN, co‑workers and physicians.
- Consults other departments, as needed and as appropriate, to provide for an interdisciplinary approach to the patient’s needs.
- Communicates appropriately and clearly to Outpatient Services Nurse Manager, co‑workers and physicians.
- Demonstrates an ability to assist physicians in a hospital wide setting.
- Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.
- Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Practices good guest relations.
- Maintains a good working relationship and effective communication both within the department and with other departments for the benefit of the patient
- Meets current documentation standards and policies and completes within the shift.
- Identifies and addresses psychosocial needs of patients and family.
- Carries out medical and surgical asepsis during treatments and special procedures.
- Maintains an environment that provides the patient and family with feelings of safety and security.
Education/Experience:
- Graduate of an accredited school of nursing. BSN or current enrollment in a BSN program preferred.
- Current Registered Nurse licensure in the state of Nebraska.
- Minimum of two (2) years nursing experience preferred.
- PACU and/or outpatient surgery experience preferred
- Current ACLS, PALS and BLS certification.
PI270535259
