A Registered Nurse provides medical care and treatment, educates patients about their conditions, and provides emotional support to patients and families. Works in hospitals, schools, clinics or community health centers. Works under the supervision of a physician or other specialist, and serves as the primary point of care for patients in a hospital setting. May specialize in emergency room work, or treatment for a particular condition, or specialize in working with infants, the elderly or other patient groups. May work as an advanced practice specialists and prescribe medications in addition to offering specialty care.
The Staff Registered Nurse (RN) at Serenity Oaks IRF delivers direct, high-quality nursing care to rehabilitation inpatients across assigned shifts. The RN assesses patient status, implements and evaluates the nursing plan of care, administers medications, and communicates clinical findings to the IDT and attending physician. This role plays a critical part in supporting patients' functional recovery, safety, and progression toward rehabilitation goals throughout their inpatient stay. 2.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Perform comprehensive nursing assessments on admission and at regular intervals; document findings accurately in the EHR. Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized nursing plans of care in collaboration with the IDT. Administer medications and treatments as ordered; observe for therapeutic and adverse effects and document accordingly. Monitor patients for changes in neurological, cardiovascular, and functional status; communicate significant changes to the attending physician promptly. Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) while promoting maximum functional independence consistent with rehabilitation goals. Supervise and delegate appropriate tasks to CNAs/PCTs; monitor and validate the quality of delegated care. Participate in weekly IDT meetings; communicate nursing assessment findings and contribute to interdisciplinary care planning. Provide patient and family education on diagnosis, medications, rehabilitation goals, home safety, and discharge preparation. Implement and monitor fall prevention, pressure injury prevention, and infection control protocols. Complete accurate and timely documentation in the EHR including nursing notes, care plans, MARs, and incident reports. Assist with or contribute data to the IRF-PAI and FIM scoring process as directed. Respond to clinical emergencies using established protocols and facilitate timely physician notification. Participate in unit-based quality improvement activities and contribute to QAPI initiatives. Adhere to all facility nursing policies, procedures, and standards of practice. 3.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Required:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from an accredited program; Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) strongly preferred.
Preferred:
BSN from an ACEN or CCNE-accredited nursing program.
Preferred:
One (1) or more years of nursing experience in an inpatient rehabilitation, acute care, or neurological/orthopedic nursing setting. New graduates considered with demonstrated clinical performance and strong academic preparation. 4.
Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license issued by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN).
Required:
Current BLS/CPR certification (AHA or Red Cross); must be maintained throughout employment.
Preferred:
Certification in Rehabilitation Nursing (CRRN) — encouraged for experienced RNs.
Required:
Louisiana RN license must be verified through LSBN prior to commencement of employment. 5.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Knowledge of nursing process, care planning, and evidence-based practice in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. Understanding of common rehabilitation diagnoses including stroke, TBI, SCI, hip fracture, and joint replacement. Ability to assess and manage medically complex patients with multiple comorbidities. Knowledge of medication administration safety, high-alert medications, and nursing pharmacology principles. Ability to use FIM scoring in collaboration with the therapy team and IDT. Proficiency with EHR documentation, nursing care plans, and electronic MAR. Strong communication skills for patient, family, and IDT interactions. Ability to supervise and direct CNAs/PCTs effectively and safely. Knowledge of infection control standards, including contact/droplet/airborne precautions. Commitment to person-centered, culturally sensitive rehabilitation nursing care. 6.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORKING CONDITIONS
Frequent standing and walking throughout assigned shifts; up to 12 hours per shift. Frequent bending, stooping, and reaching during patient care activities. Lift and transfer patients or equipment; may lift up to 50 lbs with assistance or use of assistive lift equipment. Exposure to patients with infectious conditions; use of appropriate PPE required. Potential exposure to blood and body fluids; adherence to standard precautions required.
Benefits:
401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
