Registered Nurse (RN) - Surgical Inpatient Unit

A 198-bed Level III trauma center in Farmington is seeking a Registered Nurse to join its 24-bed Surgical Inpatient Unit. The facility serves the San Juan River Valley region and provides care for a broad multi-state population across New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah.

Position Overview

This role involves providing direct nursing care to adult patients ranging from young adults to older adults over 100 years old. Nurses on this unit manage a consistent patient ratio of up to 1:6 while caring for a complex mix of post-operative surgical and medical patients.

The unit commonly supports orthopedic, neurosurgical, and abdominal post-operative cases along with nephrology and medical overflow, requiring strong clinical judgment and the ability to manage multiple patient needs within a single shift.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct nursing care to post-operative and medically complex adult patients
• Perform ongoing assessments and monitor changes in patient condition throughout the shift
• Manage care for orthopedic, neurosurgical, abdominal, and nephrology patients
• Provide care for patients with NG tubes, chest tubes, Foley catheters, and post-TURP procedures
• Manage complex medical conditions including sepsis, respiratory complications, diabetes, alcohol withdrawal, rib fractures, altered mental status, and pain control
• Administer medications and evaluate therapeutic response
• Document patient care accurately using Cerner electronic medical records
• Collaborate with physicians and interdisciplinary teams to coordinate patient care plans
• Educate patients and families regarding treatment plans, recovery expectations, and discharge needs
• Escalate changes in patient condition appropriately and in a timely manner

Qualifications

• Active Registered Nurse (RN) license required
• Minimum of 2 years of acute care nursing experience required
• Strong experience with post-operative care including orthopedic, neurosurgical, and abdominal surgery patients
• Experience with NG tubes, chest tubes, Foley catheters, and TURP care required
• Experience managing respiratory issues, diabetes, sepsis, alcohol withdrawal, and complex pain control required
• BLS certification required upon submission
• Ability to obtain New Mexico or Compact licensure prior to start
• Strong critical thinking, prioritization, and communication skills required

Schedule

• Full-time position
• Night shift: 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM
• 12-hour shifts

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• Retirement savings program
• Continuing education and certification support
• Opportunity to work in a high-acuity trauma-supported surgical inpatient setting
• Collaborative interdisciplinary care environment focused on patient safety and outcomes
• Small sign-on bonus available