Outpatient Surgery RN / PACU-Float

Summary

Provides care in the outpatient services area and phase I PACU directed toward meeting both the psychosocial and physical needs of the patient. Is willing and able to float amongst departments and function in a nursing role to aid where help is needed. Addresses the psychosocial, physical and general aspects of care related to the surgical environment. Communicates with physicians and / or anesthesia providers continuously and as needed about patient condition. Participates in performance improvement and CQI activities. \

• Coordinates and supervises patient care.
• Gives care to the patient, reflecting flexibility in rules and regulations, as indicated by individual patient needs.
• Makes decisions reflecting knowledge of facts, knowledge of diseases / surgical conditions, care required and good judgment.
• Performance reflects knowledge in all areas of care specific to outpatient surgery (i.e., GI, autologous, conscious sedation).
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly.
• Electronic documentation meets current standards and policies.
• Organizes and manages nursing activities reflecting due consideration for patients needs and the needs of the facility and staff.
• Utilizes initiative; strives to maintain steady level of productivity; a self starter; compatible and supportive; a team player.
• Knowledge of medications and IV fluids and their correct administration, based on age of the patient and patients clinical condition.
• Follows the five medication rights and reduces the potential for medication errors.
• Ability to perform a head-to-toe preoperative assessment on all patients and reassesses, as needed postoperatively. This includes pediatric, geriatric and the general patient population.
• Demonstrates ability to provide specific care to postoperative neonate, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients.
• Ability to adequately assess and reassess pain. Utilizes appropriate pain management techniques. Educates the patient and family regarding pain management.
• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical / health care errors.
• Ability to formulate an individualized plan of care, as indicated, and evaluates for effectiveness.
• Formulates a teaching plan, based on identified patient learning needs, and evaluates effectiveness of learning; family is included in teaching, as appropriate, from preop to discharge.
• Provides patient with explanation and verbal reassurance consistently.
• Identifies physical symptoms and changes and takes appropriate action in a timely manner.
• Knowledge of cardiac monitoring and can identify dysrhythmias.
• Communicates appropriately and clearly to Outpatient Services Nurse Manager, Charge RN, co‑workers and physicians.
• Consults other departments, as needed and as appropriate, to provide for an interdisciplinary approach to the patients needs.
• Communicates appropriately and clearly to Outpatient Services Nurse Manager, co‑workers and physicians.
• Demonstrates an ability to assist physicians in a hospital wide setting.
• Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Practices good guest relations.
• Maintains a good working relationship and effective communication both within the department and with other departments for the benefit of the patient
• Meets current documentation standards and policies and completes within the shift.
• Identifies and addresses psychosocial needs of patients and family.
• Carries out medical and surgical asepsis during treatments and special procedures.
• Maintains an environment that provides the patient and family with feelings of safety and security.

Education / Experience :