RN, Pulmonary/Thoracic/Vascular Surgery, Step Down Unit

Job Description

Overview

8E Pulmonary / Thoracic / Vascular Surgery is an Intermediate / Progressive Care Unit (PCU) that was awarded a Silver Beacon Award for providing excellence nursing care to patients

• The only Lung Transplant Center in the state of Georgia
• The only unit with staff trained to care for Adult Pulmonary Hypertension and Lung Transplant patients
• Staff are trained to provide care to patients who have complex pulmonary, thoracic and vascular surgery needs
• Staff also trained to provide care to Vascular Surgery patients who require life-saving revascularization procedures
• One of the hospital’s highest performers in patient satisfaction
• RN Ratio 1 : 4 (1 : 3 New Lung Transplant)
• NT / PCA 1 : 8
• 24 bed unit at Emory University Hospital
• APP coverage available on unit during day and coverage available on nights
• Interdisciplinary Team of staff continuously collaborates to provide exceptional care to patients

Description

JOB DESCRIPTION : Day Shift,and Night Shift are available

• Capable clinician who has acquired broad experience in caring for patients, and has developed a sound understanding about the care of a particular patient population.
• Routinely uses acquired knowledge, theory, research and experience to respond to changes in clinical situations.
• Is able to apply the Synergy Model for Care in practice, and use this knowledge to personalize care for each patient / family.
• Serves as a resource to colleagues and strong advocate for patients / families.
• Consistently communicates effectively and respectfully with the patient, the patient's family, and other members of the healthcare team.

Delivers safe, dependable and effective care to a patient population independently utilizing the nursing process.

• Demonstrates developed assessment skills. Recognizes the impact of nursing care on patient outcomes.
• Continues to recognize own performance limitations, but requires minimal assistance.
• Documents the nursing process accurately and in the appropriate format (e.g. computer, clinical pathway, and chart).
• Plans and implements patient care independently. Utilizes patient / family input and goals in planning plan of care.
• Evaluates patient's response to planned care and adjusts plan of care as appropriate.
• Identifies patient and family learning needs and makes recommendations to resources regarding those needs. Incorporates AACN Synergy Model into clinical practice.

Manages time effectively.

• Identifies the need to revise policies and procedures for a patient population based on receipt / review of evidence-based research.
• Delegates appropriately utilizing the Synergy model of care. Recognizes the roles of the interdisciplinary team, patient and family care partners and utilizes them appropriately as resources in planning patient care.
• Functions in a developing leadership role. Functions as Charge Nurse when assigned.
• Orients staff or students as assigned in absence of designated preceptor. Utilizes resources in a responsible manner with a focus on cost containment.
• Demonstrates effective listening skills. Reduces barriers to facilitate communication.
• Utilizes effective conflict resolution skills. Individualizes care based upon the knowledge of the patient and the family.
• Recognizes needs and advocates for patient based on knowledge of condition. Has awareness of one's own values and how they affect interactions and relationships.
• Recognizes that cultural differences need to be considered in developing patient and family relationships (focus on identifying cultural norms).
• Identifies and implements a course of action in non-routine situations. May seek assistance to resolve complex issues.
• Respects and maintains confidential information. Accepts personal accountability for professional development and growth.
• Participates within the unit to identify and address discipline specific issues and needs.
• Articulates application of Synergy model for care in clinical practice. Collects, reports, analyzes and provides data on an ongoing basis and as required by physician and / or interdisciplinary teams in accordance with organization standards.
• Revises and evaluates effectiveness of patient care documentation. Uses interviews, surveys, focus groups and questionnaires to identify and resolves areas for improvement.
• Meets all Clinical Nurse I Employee Commitments. Achieves points and contact hours as defined in the PLAN (clinical lattice) point system to maintain position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS : Graduate of an accredited school of nursing 12 months of recent nursing experience within the past five years or recent completion of a re-entry nursing program.

Must have a valid, active unencumbered Nursing license or temporary permit approved by the Georgia Licensing Board. BLS certification required and ACLS may be required in designated departments

• PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS : (Medium-Heavy) 36-75 lbs, 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 20-35 lbs, 34-66% of the workday;
• frequently); 10-20 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 75 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 35 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking;

Occasional sitting; Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing); Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.

• ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS : Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to : Blood-borne pathogen exposure;
• Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals / gases / fumes / vapors ; Communicable diseases; Electrical shock; Floor Surfaces; Hot / Cold Temperatures;
• Indoor / Outdoor conditions; Latex; Lighting; Patient care / handling injuries; Radiation; Shift work; Travel may be required;

Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators; environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.