Registered Nurse

Description

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Safety Sensitive: Yes

Definition: The Registered Nurse is responsible for delivery of nursing care to individuals based on comprehensive assessment, analysis, collaboration with integrated team members, and educational needs of the patient. The Registered Nurse is accountable for ongoing evaluation and documentation of all components of care delivered to patients and residents of Pershing General Hospital and Nursing Home.

Distinguishing Characteristics: This is a professional level position within the critical access hospital (CAH) and skilled nursing facility (SNF). CAH nurses will be under the supervision of the Chief Nursing Officer and SNF nurses will be under the supervision of the Director of Nursing. Registered Nurses may occasionally serve as a preceptor, but will generally have no supervisory responsibilities.

Essential Functions: (Performance of these functions is the reason the job exists. Assigned jobs/duties are not limited to the essential functions).

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients’ physical and psychological conditions.
• Participate in the development of individualized care plans based on patient assessments, medical diagnoses, and treatment goals.
• Administer medications and intravenous therapies, ensure accurate dosages, and monitor patients for adverse reactions.
• Regularly monitor and record vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature.
• Provide wound care, including cleaning, dressing changes, and monitoring the healing process.
• Educate patients and their families about medical conditions, treatment plans, medications, and self-care techniques.
• Collaborate with healthcare team members, including providers and other healthcare professionals, to coordinate and provide comprehensive care.
• Advocate for patients’ needs and rights, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support.
• Maintain accurate and thorough medical records, including patient assessments, medication administration documentation, and progress notes.
• Implement infection control measures to prevent the spread of infections.
• Respond to medical emergencies and provide immediate care and life-saving interventions.
• Adhere to ethical principles and legal regulations to healthcare.
• Comply with compliance guidelines established by hospital administration.
• Participate in quality assurance and process improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and safety.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

The physical and mental requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

Strength, dexterity, cognitive ability, and coordination to operate a keyboard and video display terminal using word processing and databases. Strength and stamina to bend, stoop, sit, stand, and walk for extended periods of time. Dexterity, coordination, bending and reaching to access and handle file(s); periodic lifting of files, stacks of paper or reports, references, and other materials. Moderate lifting (up to 50 pounds) may be periodically required to include some bending, reaching, squatting, and stooping. The ability to interact professionally, communicate effectively, and exchange information accurately with all internal and external customers. Mental stamina to deal with emotionally difficult situations. Ability to appropriately handle stress and interact with others, including supervisors, coworkers, clients, and customers. Regular and consistent punctuality and attendance.

In compliance with applicable disability laws, reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with a disability who require and request such accommodations. Incumbents and individuals are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Working Conditions:

Work is performed under the following conditions:

Work environment is generally clean and comfortable. Lighting conditions are typically good. Frequent interruptions to planned work activities occur. Position routinely encounters situations with potentially infectious material; additionally, position routinely experiences potential exposure to blood and body fluids. Usage of protective equipment and safety precautions for brief or extended periods of time may be required.

Requirements

Qualifications for Employment:

Qualifications for employment include the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform a job, which are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education, or training.

Knowledge of:

• Various emergency medical procedures, including CPR, intubation, wound care, and medication administration
• Communicate effectively verbally and in written form to convey information clearly and efficiently
• Medical equipment and technology, such as ventilators, defibrillators, and monitors
• Ethical principles and legal regulations related to healthcare, such as patient confidentiality and informed consent

Skill to:

• Make rapid, informed decisions during emergencies, such as identifying life-threatening situations and determine appropriate interventions
• Advocate for patients’ needs and rights, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support
• Demonstrate compassion and understanding for patients and their families during stressful and emotional situations
• Work as a member of a multidisciplinary team, which may include providers, other nurses, other medical professionals, and support staff
• Maintain thorough and accurate record-keeping to ensure continuity of care and legal compliance

Ability to:

• Quickly and accurately assess patients’ conditions, prioritize care, and make critical decisions
• Establish rapport and build trust with patients and their families, as well as work collaboratively with colleagues
• Adapt to changing patient conditions, department/hospital priorities, and occasional unpredictable work environment
• Prioritize tasks and patient needs efficiently
• Manage personal stress and maintain composure in high-pressure situations

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Assigns, instructs and directs Certified Nursing Assistants and Ward Clerk on duty. 
• Monitors CNA work performance.

Required Certifications and Licenses:

• Basic Cardiac Life Support Certification required
• Active and unencumbered state of Nevada nursing license required
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification (CAH only - required)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (CAH Only - required)
• Trauma Nursing Core Course (CAH Only – preferred)

Experience and Training:

Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. A typical way to gain the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is:

• Successful completion of a nursing course at an accredited university or nursing program