Job Summary

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. This role is responsible for coordinating and delivering high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders. The RN collaborates with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient care and desired outcomes, while maintaining a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and their families.

Essential Functions

Coordinates and delivers high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
Conducts thorough patient assessments and documents findings accurately, reporting changes in condition to the appropriate care team members.
Utilizes knowledge of human growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and education.
Administers prescribed medications, monitors for side effects, and documents administration in accordance with standards of practice.
Assists physicians during procedures within the scope of documented competency and skill level.
Collaborates with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments and needs.
Responds to medical emergencies and participates in life-saving interventions, such as CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.
Advocates for the rights and needs of patients, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in care planning and delivery.
Provides patient and family education on medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care, ensuring understanding and adherence to instructions.
Implements and adheres to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.
Monitors and operates medical equipment (e.g., IV pumps, monitors, ventilators) as needed for patient care and safety.
Promotes patient safety by adhering to National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment for patients and staff.
Participates in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks to ensure adherence to standards of practice and regulatory requirements.
Demonstrates responsible decision-making in planning, delegating, and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.
Documents patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.
Engages in professional development to maintain clinical competency and understanding of current nursing standards and regulations.
Participates in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development, to enhance patient outcomes and care delivery.
Obstetrics/Labor and Delivery/Post Partum/Nursery RN:
- Educates patients about pregnancy, provides prenatal screenings, and prepares patients for labor and delivery.
- Assesses and monitors the new mother's physical recovery, including vital signs, postpartum hemorrhage, and potential complications like postpartum depression.
- Assists with epidurals and other pain management techniques during labor.
- Administers pain medication, induces labor, and manages other medication needs during labor and delivery.
- Assists during labor and delivery, monitors fetal well-being, administers medications, and provides pain relief. Monitors mothers and newborns after delivery, assessing their well-being, and providing education on postpartum care and breastfeeding.
- Assesses and monitors newborn health, taking vital signs, performing routine assessments, and educating parents on newborn care.
- Assists with gynecological exams and procedures, and provides education on reproductive health, contraception, and prenatal care.
- Educates patients about family planning, fertility, pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.
- Interprets fetal heart rate patterns and assesses fetal well-being using electronic fetal monitoring.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

0-2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.
Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.
Proficient in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.
Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.

Licenses and Certifications

RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required
BCLS - Basic Life Support required
ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred
PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred
NRP - Neonatal Resuscitation preferred
Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.

Merit Health Central

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