Orthopedics Total Joint (NP/PA)

About the role

The Nurse Practitioner/Physician Assistant (NP/PA) in Orthopedics – Total Joint provides high-quality, patient-centered care in collaboration with orthopedic surgeons and the broader clinical team. This role evaluates, diagnoses, and manages patients with conditions related to total joint replacement. The provider participates in pre-operative assessments, post-operative care, monitoring recovery progress, and managing chronic joint issues. The NP/PA supports optimal patient outcomes by coordinating care across the continuum and contributing to the overall success of the orthopedic service line. This position operates within a team-based care model and is responsible for coordinating care for patients, supporting patients/families/caregivers in self-management and behavior change, and managing the practice’s patient population. The NP/PA also participates in the practice’s quality improvement process and performance evaluation.

Responsibilities

• Perform pre-operative assessments for patients undergoing total joint replacement.
• Provide post-operative care and monitor recovery progress.
• Manage chronic joint issues and coordinate care across the continuum.
• Assess patients, develop, implement, and evaluate plans of care.
• Administer pharmacological drugs as ordered and perform procedures as assigned.
• Prepare patients, perform, and assist with orthopedic trauma patient care, including casting fractures and wound care.
• Assist with orthopedic procedures as assigned by the physician.
• Demonstrate knowledge of growth and development across the lifespan and provide age-appropriate care.
• Support patients, families, and caregivers in self-management, self-efficacy, and behavior change.
• Participate in the practice’s quality improvement process and performance evaluation.

Requirements

• Master’s of Science degree in Nursing (MSN) with successful completion of an accredited Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program OR Graduate of a Master’s degree Physician Assistant program.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in Orthopedics or a clinical setting.
• Knowledge of general nursing principles and practice skills; organizational functions, policies, and regulations; current trends and new developments; and principles and practices of nursing applicable to areas requiring special education.

Position Requirements

• Current licensure to practice nursing in the State of Tennessee.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification completed prior to starting in the unit/department and maintained thereafter.
• Completion of 4 hours of education specific to Total Ankle, Hip, and Knee Replacement upon hire (assigned by Department Leadership and/or Educator).
• For non-Tennessee residents, Tennessee licensure or multistate licensure from a compact state must be obtained within three months of hire.