Admissions and Discharge and Transfer RN Position Available In Watauga, North Carolina

Position Overview:

The Admissions, Discharge, and Transfer Registered Nurse (RN) plays a critical role in the patient care experience by overseeing the safe and effective coordination of admissions, discharges, and transfers. This position ensures seamless transitions across care settings while upholding patient safety, satisfaction, and high-quality care standards. The RN serves as a key communicator, collaborator, and advocate for patients and their families during every step of the transition process. This is a non-exempt, clinical RN role. Starting hourly rate is commensurate with education, experience, certification, and internal equity, with a minimum rate starting at $34/hour . Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days from the new hire orientation date.

The Perks and Benefits:

Collaborative Care Environment:

Be part of a compassionate healthcare team committed to excellence in patient care.

Professional Growth:

Access to ongoing education, clinical training, and advancement through our Career Pathways Program.

Meaningful Impact:

Help patients navigate critical moments in their care journey, ensuring safe, informed transitions and continuity of care. Location Perks –

Boone, NC:

Work in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, with access to outdoor adventures, fine dining, shopping, breweries, and cultural venues.

Top-Rated Community:

Boone is home to Appalachian State University and a top-rated public school system, making it ideal for families and professionals alike. Employee Wellness –

Love Your Life Program:

Participate in our award-winning wellness initiative offering incentives and health-focused resources. Employee to Employee (E2E)

Program:

Financial assistance program funded by employees to support colleagues facing unexpected hardship.

Perks:

Enjoy discounts on regional attractions such as Dollywood, Tweetsie Railroad, and the Biltmore Estate (subject to change).

Key Responsibilities:

Admissions:

Conduct comprehensive assessments of incoming patients including physical exams, history taking, and medical record reviews.

Discharges:

Develop individualized discharge plans in coordination with physicians, social workers, and other team members, including medication instructions and patient education.

Transfers:

Coordinate safe and timely patient transfers between departments or facilities, ensuring complete and accurate documentation and communication.

Patient Advocacy:

Support patients and families by addressing concerns, providing education, and guiding them through care transitions with empathy.

Documentation:

Maintain accurate and timely documentation related to admissions, transfers, and discharges in compliance with healthcare regulations.

Collaboration:

Work closely with care teams to ensure smooth transitions and continuity of care throughout the patient’s stay.

Education:

Provide patient and family education on discharge processes, medications, and self-care to support successful transitions to home or other settings.

Emergency Response:

Be prepared to assist in emergencies, following established protocols and supporting the care team as needed.

Quality Improvement:

Participate in quality initiatives aimed at enhancing processes related to admissions, discharges, and transfers.

Position Requirements:

Minimum Education:

Graduate of a nursing program; Associate’s Degree in Nursing required.

Experience:

Minimum of one (1) year as a Registered Nurse. Strong communication, organizational, and critical thinking skills. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Licensure/Certifications:

Current RN license in the state of North Carolina. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required at hire. Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and PEDS training required within one (1) year of hire. NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) certification required within one (1) year of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Demonstrated ability to deliver safe, effective patient care within legal and institutional guidelines. Understanding of the nursing care continuum and transition processes. Commitment to exceptional service and ethical patient care.

Physical Demands:

Ability to lift, move, or transfer patients and equipment >50 lbs. Extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and twisting. Manual dexterity and ability to perform repetitive tasks. Visual acuity for close work and patient assessments.

Working Conditions:

Exposure to infectious diseases and bodily fluids. May encounter hazardous materials and equipment. Must be available for irregular shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Frequently works on feet for >8 hours per shift. May occasionally be exposed to radiation, vibrations, or cramped spaces. About UNC Health Appalachian It’s official – UNC Health Appalachian earned an “A” in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.” About UNC Health UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org. UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us. Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu .