Overview

JOB SUMMARY

The Unit Secretary, reporting to the Nursing Unit Director, with assignment and direction from the Charge Nurse or Registered Nurse/LVN designee, is responsible for assisting in the planning, implementing and evaluating the activities occurring in the nursing station by performance of clerical/ receptionist &/or Cardiac Monitoring duties. This position is responsible for maintaining the physical environment of the nursing unit. The US supports the hospital mission and vision with emphasis on customer relations. The US utilizes knowledge of patient's age, spiritual and cultural diversity into unit communication & organization. The US is a non-licensed position whose training & skills enables him/her to interpret basic cardiac rhythms, recognize & alert the RN to significant rhythm changes or common dysrhythmias. The position contributes to the provision of safety and quality care that result in positive outcomes in patient care. Responsibilities Accurately prepares daily lists with room number and patient names with vital signs, dietary lists, etc. Ensures that complete information is filled in on all forms as required by the department. Always identifies correct patient name sticker before putting charts together and ensures all paper work has the proper name stickers on the paper work Maintains Kardexes and Diagnostic logs to ensure complete and accurate information in order to facilitate patient follow-up. Accurately transcribes and transmits physician orders to appropriate areas under supervision of an RN regarding the scheduling of patient activities and tests. Follows up on written and oral instructions; promptly reports matter requiring immediate nursing intervention. Files policies and procedures in the appropriate unit/station manuals; keeps reference materials in order. Files and copies all documents, as required. Routinely calls for and obtains old medical records for patients upon their admission. Updates and thins "longstay" charts, as per policy, when necessary-- needs no reminders. Assists with preparation of pre-surgical charts. Titles all charts of discharged patients within the same shift that the patient was discharged from the hospital. Maintains a well-supplied, organized nursing station. Participates in economical utilization of supplies and equipment and orders supplies as necessary with cost-awareness. Checks for accurate delivery as ordered and stocks supplies in proper storage cart. Communicates with other departments for services needed. Promptly notifies departments of STAT tests, procedures and treatments. Demonstrates competence in functioning as a receptionist on the nursing until and communicates with physicians, ancillary departments, patients and visitors. Remains composed, able to provide direction during emergency situations, STAT requests or orders. Appropriately posts the patient's allergies in Red ink on: Chart, Kardex, MAR, and Admission order sheet. Initiates and disseminates all patient charges: ensures that all charges are recorded and sent to data processing. Files policies and procedures in the appropriate unit/station manuals; keeps reference materials in order. Files and copies all documents, as required. Responsible for the completion of all daily clerical work assignments by the end of the assigned shift; without interference to the quality of work. Makes environmental rounds every day and submits reports to the appropriate department, or director. Keeps communication boards clean and up-dated. Promptly makes all arrangements for outside services, transfers, CAT scans, ambulance services, etc.; coordinates schedules for maximum efficiency. Always identifies self and unit when answering the phone; correctly receives telephone information, delivers messages, and/or refers phone calls to the appropriate person; forwards all information as required. Responds immediately and appropriately to inquiries, requests, patient call lights' and telephone calls. Always communicate problems to the Charge Nurse, Nurse Manager and/or Director promptly; asks questions to clarify misunderstandings. Gives and receives shift report at the start and end of shift on a daily basis. Performs other duties as assigned. Qualifications High School Graduate or equivalent experience preferred Minimum of one year of acute hospital experience preferred. Current Basic Life Support (CPR) American Heart Association. Competent in Medical Terminology