Registered Nurse

General Summary :

The Medical/Surgical (MS) RN provides direct and indirect nursing care in a medical-surgical setting as defined by the Standards and Scope of Practice for the Registered Nurse {Nursing Practice Act (RCW 18.79.010-18.79.902)}. The RN is an important member of the healthcare team and works collaboratively with the other members of the care team to provide optimal outcomes for our patients in a compassionate, professional, ethical, and knowledgeable fashion. The RN demonstrates excellence in customer service during interactions with employees, managers/supervisors, providers, patients and patient family members, etc. The role of the RN includes, but is not limited to: assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of patients' status, plan of care and goal achievement. The RN will be oriented and float to other departments as necessary. The RN is aware of the potential exposure to internal and external hazardous materials, including but not limited to: blood and blood borne pathogens, infectious/communicable diseases and potential physical injury while caring for patients. Maintains a safe and clean environment for the care of the patient. Minimum Education, Training & Experience (includes licenses or certifications): Education /

Licensure:

Must be an accredited nursing school graduate with an active/current RN license in Washington State. Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree preferred. BLS and ACLS are required within six (6) months of hire. Basic computer knowledge is required.

Experience:

Six (6) months nursing experience preferred.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / RESPONSIBILITIES

(but not limited to): Supports the organization's mission, vision, and values. Demonstrates knowledge of the statutes and regulations governing nursing and nursing functions within the legal boundaries of the Registered Nurse Practice Act. Performs head-to-toe assessment on all patients, including pediatric, geriatric, and general patients. Initiates or contributes to the plan of care and discharge plan for all admitted patients, identifying priorities within the plan and setting realistic, measurable goals. Evaluates overall plan of care daily, monitors patient progress, and identifies any changes in status, able to revise plan of care as indicated by patient's response to treatment to ensure patient comfort and safety. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic, and religious/spiritual needs of patients and their families. Formulates a teaching plan for patients and families based upon identified learning needs. Adequately assesses and reassesses pain, utilizing appropriate pain management techniques. Educates the patient and family regarding pain management. Delivers and documents patient care as prescribed by the medical provider considering needs specific to the standard of care for patients age and within the scope of practice of the Registered Nurse, including: bathing, feeding, taking vitals, administering therapies and treatment, starting/maintaining/discontinuing IV lines for food, medication, blood and blood products; observing the patient and recording those observations, answering patient questions, etc. Uses sound nursing judgment to identify and communicate changes in the patient's condition to the charge nurse and/or provider in a timely manner consistent with delivery of quality care. Communicates nursing interventions and responses to care to other members of the health care team. Demonstrates knowledge of medications and their appropriate administration based on the patient's age and clinical condition. Follows KVH policy on medication administration to avoid medical errors or interactions. Assists providers with procedures and performs care and services requiring technical and manual skills. Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/healthcare errors, and is accountable and responsible for each assigned patient. Consults other departments as appropriate to provide for an interdisciplinary approach to the patient's needs. Works collaboratively with other nursing/hospital staff, delegating tasks as necessary; may assist Charge Nurse in the supervision of LPN, CNA, and Unit Secretary. Follows hospital policy when labeling, handling, and disposing of bio-hazardous materials. Performs new nursing techniques or procedures after successful demonstration of competencies. Floats to other departments as needed. Comply with all hospital policy and procedures, while upholding the high expectations of KVH. Attends a minimum of 50% of nursing staffing meetings and 100% of mandatory in-services. Completes initial and annual skills competencies. Performs other duties as assigned.