Description

JOB SUMMARY AND SCOPE

Under the general direction of the Unit Director, independently provides holistic, individualized care using the nursing process for patients routinely seen on the unit. Demonstrates clinical competency, nursing judgment, teaching skills, as well as a commitment to improving the quality of patient care. Independently performs general and unit specific clinical skills. 

Performs the functions of a Registered Nurse in assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating all assigned patient care under supervision of the Charge Nurse. Is responsible for adhering to all Standards of Nursing Practice, implementing and evaluating the age-appropriate care of all patients in the department (Postpartum, Nursery, Pediatric, Adolescent, Adult and Geriatric), for managing supplies and equipment, and for promoting teamwork with physicians and personnel of the unit and other hospital departments. RN adheres to hospital policies regarding confidentiality, sexual harassment, advance directives, and American Disabilities Act. Performs Charge Nurse duties as needed. Maintains a high degree of confidentiality and supports the mission, vision, and values of the organization.

Performs as a Resource RN to a Qualified Labor and Delivery Nurse to meet the needs of Obstetrical Patients in the Antepartum, Intrapartum and Postpartum Phases.

*DECH is an equal opportunity employer.

Requirements

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Current licensure as a registered nurse in the State of Maine or Authorization to Practice pending licensure by endorsement.
• Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.
• Successfully completes general nursing and unit orientation.
• Effective communication skills; both orally and written.
• Ability to work with others within a team to ensure quality patient care.
• Strong critical thinking skills.
• Good customer service skills.
• Current BCLS
• Acute care experience preferred.
• ACLS, PALS and Neonatal Resuscitation Certificate (NRP) within 6 months of hire for experienced nurses and within one year for newly licensed RNs.
• S.T.A.B.L.E certification within 2 years.
• Excellent assessment, communication, computer, and documentation skills needed.
• Ability to function independently.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Clinical proficiency within scope of practice.
• Assessment of Patients: Systematically and continually assesses the health and status of the patient assuring the application of age specific standards.
• Care of the Patient: In collaboration with the patient/family, with regard to developmental, cultural and age specific differences, develops and implements patient care plans to include problems, goals, evaluations and interventions.
• Education of patient/family: Provides patient/family education with regard to assessing ability to learn, special learning needs, and evaluating effectiveness of teaching procedures.
• Promote good communication, teamwork, professional relationships, and positive attitudes among the health care team.
• Coordinate all aspects of nursing care to achieve desired patient outcomes.
• Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate the age-appropriate care of patients.
• Document nursing care according to hospital policies and approved standards
• Participate in discharge planning for assigned patients in collaboration with the multi-disciplinary health care team, patients, family, and care givers.
• Adhere to Universal Blood and Body Fluid Precautions
• Adhere to Infection Control policies. 
• Document all care performed and patient response.
• Ensure documentation is thorough and accurately represents care delivered. 
• Inform charge nurse and physician of reportable changes in patient status. Take expected action and intervention.
• Use equipment and supplies in a safe and efficient manner.
• Remain current in practice through attendance at in-services, seminars, and workshops, and through relevant reading.
• Initiate and present in-service education programs based on seminars and workshops attended outside the hospital or in areas of interest.
• Participate in Organ/Tissue Donation Program
• Knowledge of the hospital disaster, fire, bomb threat and evacuation plans as they pertain to the unit.
• Participate in the planning, revision and implementation of policies, procedures, and standards of care in collaboration with the department manager.
• Serve on hospital committees as assigned.
• Ensure variance reporting process occurs in accordance with policy.
• Promote positive community relations.
• Participate in orientation of new employees and in evaluation of orientation procedures.
• Contribute to the performance evaluation of personnel in the department when requested.
• Adhere to unit dress code.
• Adhere to employee health policies.
• Attend 75% of unit staff meetings.
• Support and adhere to administration and nursing service policies and procedures.
• Seeks out needed information by staying informed and involved by attending meetings, reading memos, policies, meeting minutes, newsletters, email, and other appropriate information in a timely manner.
• Uses patient handling equipment appropriate to the needs of the individual patient in keeping with the Safe Patient and Handling and Movement Policy. 
• Reliable attendance and punctuality, including observing appropriate break times and extending a scheduled shift when necessary to meet patient demands.
• Perform duties in a safe manner, in compliance with all safety policies and procedures.
• Comply with the Code of Conduct and all appropriate codes, policies, and procedures.
• Other duties, as assigned, that are relevant to the position and department.