RN - Geriatrics / Extended Care

Registered Nurse - Geriatrics

Departments: Geriatrics & Extended Care (CLC)

Qualifications:

• Current and valid RN license in any state.
• 18 months experience in specialty care area (within the past 5 years)
• Demonstrated clinical competency in acute and long-term care settings.
• Proficiency in electronic medical record documentation.
• (Trainings on VA systems will be provided during 2-day orientation prior to official start.)
• Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong communication and critical thinking skills.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Patient/Resident Safety & Confidentiality

• Maintain confidentiality of patient/resident information.
• Ensure a safe care environment in compliance with The Joint Commission, VA regulations, and other oversight bodies.
• Adhere to protocols for medication administration, discharge processes, restraint usage, hazardous waste disposal, and patient/family education.

2. Patient/Resident-Centered Care

• Conduct comprehensive health assessments and develop interdisciplinary care plans.
• Monitor and respond to changes in patient/resident conditions.
• Document all relevant data in the electronic medical record.
• Complete nursing assessments within required timeframes.
• Address emotional and spiritual needs of patients/residents and families.
• Update care plans and communicate changes to the assigned physician.
• Report any incidents of abuse immediately to the Nurse Manager or designated leadership.

3. Clinical Duties

• Perform head-to-toe assessments.
• Insert and manage IV lines, including peripheral, central, and PICC lines.
• Administer medications, including IV therapies.
• Coordinate admissions and discharges.
• Measure and monitor vital signs, including pain and pulse oximetry.
• Conduct wound care and dressing changes; obtain wound cultures.
• Collect and deliver lab specimens.
• Provide tracheostomy and non-acute ventilator care.
• Perform oral, nasogastric, and tracheostomy suctioning, including deep suctioning.
• Administer tube feedings and manage urinary/bowel elimination needs.
• Educate patients/residents and families on diagnoses and medications.
• Respond to emergency situations.
• Provide clinical oversight to LPNs, Nursing Assistants, and Health Technicians.
• Conduct one-to-one and virtual patient observation.
• Perform capillary blood glucose testing and monitoring.

Geriatrics and Extended Care (CLC) RN Specialty Responsibilities:

The Geriatrics and Extended Care RN provides comprehensive, patient-centered care for elderly and long-term care residents, focusing on maintaining dignity, comfort, and quality of life. Additional responsibilities include:

• Chronic Disease Management
• Monitor and manage patients with multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, COPD, and dementia.
• Implement individualized care plans to optimize functional status and prevent complications.
• Rehabilitation and Functional Support
• Assist patients in achieving optimal levels of independence through mobility support and rehabilitation activities.
• Collaborate with physical and occupational therapy teams to promote safe ambulation and ADL (Activities of Daily Living) performance.
• End-of-Life and Palliative Care
• Provide compassionate care for patients nearing end-of-life, including pain and symptom management.
• Support families through education and emotional support during palliative and hospice care processes.
• Behavioral and Cognitive Support
• Assess and manage behavioral symptoms associated with dementia and other cognitive disorders.
• Implement non-pharmacological interventions to promote comfort and reduce agitation.
• Medication and Treatment Oversight
• Administer medications accurately, including psychotropic and pain management regimens.
• Monitor for adverse effects and communicate changes promptly to the care team.
• Patient and Family Education
• Educate patients and families on chronic disease management, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments.
• Provide guidance on advanced care planning and available resources.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration
• Work closely with social workers, dietitians, therapists, and physicians to ensure holistic care.
• Participate in care conferences and contribute to long-term care planning.