RN-Outpatient Surgery

About the Role

Provides care in the outpatient services area directed toward meeting both the psychosocial and physical needs of the patient. Assesses, plans, implements, and evaluates the care of patients undergoing invasive procedures in the outpatient surgery department. Coordinates and supervises patient care while communicating with physicians and/or anesthesia providers continuously and as needed about patient condition. Participates in performance improvement and CQI activities.

Responsibilities

• Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care, reflecting flexibility in rules and regulations based on individual patient needs.
• Make decisions reflecting knowledge of facts, diseases/surgical conditions, required care, and good judgment.
• Demonstrate knowledge in all areas of care specific to outpatient surgery (e.g., GI, autologous, conscious sedation).
• Manage and operate equipment safely and correctly; ensure electronic documentation meets current standards and policies.
• Organize and manage nursing activities while considering patients’ needs and the needs of the facility and staff.
• Perform head-to-toe preoperative assessments on all patients and reassess as needed postoperatively, including pediatric, geriatric, and general patient populations.
• Assess and reassess pain, utilizing appropriate pain management techniques and educating patients and families regarding pain management.
• Provide care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.
• Formulate and evaluate individualized plans of care and teaching plans based on identified patient learning needs, including family in teaching as appropriate.
• Identify physical symptoms and changes and take appropriate action in a timely manner; demonstrate knowledge of cardiac monitoring and dysrhythmia identification.
• Communicate appropriately and clearly with the Outpatient Services Nurse Manager, co-workers, physicians, and other departments to support an interdisciplinary approach to patient care.
• Assist physicians in the OPS unit, demonstrating flexibility, organization, and the ability to function under stressful situations.
• Treat patients and their families with respect and dignity, practicing good guest relations and maintaining effective communication within and outside the department.
• Meet current documentation standards and policies, completing documentation within the shift.
• Identify and address psychosocial needs of patients and family.
• Carry out medical and surgical asepsis during treatments and special procedures.
• Maintain an environment that provides patients and families with feelings of safety and security.
• Administer medications and IV fluids correctly based on the patient’s age and clinical condition, following the five medication rights to reduce potential errors.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.
• Current Registered Nurse licensure in the state of Nebraska.
• Two (2) years of nursing experience preferred; one (1) year of experience in an outpatient surgical setting preferred.
• Current ACLS and BLS certification.
• PALS certification within 6 months of hire.

Qualifications

• BSN or current enrollment in a BSN program preferred.
• Demonstrates initiative, productivity, compatibility, and teamwork.