Registered Nurse - Pre/Post Operating Room ASC - PT 30 hrs

Registered Nurse

The Staff Registered Nurse is responsible for providing nursing care to the ambulatory surgical patient during the pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative phase of the peri-operative experience. This consists of nursing activities performed where the RN is responsible for patient safety. The RN anticipates and meets patient needs by assisting the surgeon and person responsible for anesthesia care.

Relationships: Responsible to: Registered Nurse Team Leader or Director of Nursing.

Qualifications: Graduate of Accredited School of Nursing. Current State Licensure. Operating room experience preferred. Certified in BLS, ACLS preferred.

Standard I. Demonstrates commitment to the philosophy, goals and objectives of the Essex Specialized Surgical Institute. Performs in accordance with adopted standards and approved policies and procedures. Maintains HIPAA standards. Participates as a team member in support of the total peri-operative process.

Standard II. Demonstrates understanding and commitment to Quality Assurance and Risk Management programs as adopted by Essex Specialized Surgical Institute. Performs in accordance with established quality assurance policies and procedures. Supports risk management and participates in programs that are directed to patient and employee safety.

Standard III. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of special needs of the patient when admitted to the surgery center with consideration for specific needs in outpatient surgery setting.

Criteria: Follows policy and procedure for transport of patients to surgery observing safety requirements and assessing the special needs of the patient. Follows policy and procedure for identification of the patient and correct surgical intervention. Reviews patient's chart and plans care with other members of health care team as indicated by particular needs of patient. Provides comfort and reassurance to patient and assures patient privacy and dignity. Explains to the patient the routine care and procedures applicable to the intra-operative phase of surgical intervention. Observes safety measures in-patient care activities.

Standard IV. Demonstrates understanding of the role and functions of the staff registered nurse by following approved operating room procedures. Understands requirements of procedures to be performed.

Criteria: Prepares operating room set-up according to requirements of patient and procedure to be performed. Assembles and provides properly functioning equipment, supplies and instruments before start of procedure. Positions and adjusts equipment as required during the progression of the procedure. Provides for comfort in the physical environment by monitoring parameters such as, room temperature, humidity, and noise level. Anticipates needs of surgical team. Implements safety policies and procedures to protect both patients and employees. Monitors compliance with principles of aseptic technique according to accepted standards. Prepares operative site as directed by established procedure. Assists with the proper and safe positioning of the patient. Assists anesthesia personnel. Supports patient during administration of anesthesia. Provides for continuity of individual patient care by communicating with other peri-operative care personnel and documenting records appropriately.

Standard V. Demonstrates understanding of management requirements by organizing time, equipment, supplies and personnel effectively.

Criteria: Supervises and directs patient care. Organizes nursing activities in an efficient manner. Delegates activities taking into consideration the abilities of various individuals. Considers cost containment by using supplies economically and in effective turnover time. Assists in inventory of supplies, drugs and equipment to assure availability and to maintain stock levels. Maintains order and cleanliness of the surgical area.

Standard VI. Demonstrates commitment to improving quality of staff performance at the Surgery Center through contributions in nursing practice and teaching.

Criteria: Assists with orientation of new personnel. Participates in teaching the staff new techniques, changes in policies, etc.

Standard VII. Demonstrates skill in maintaining positive interpersonal relationships with patients, physicians and co-workers.

Criteria: Displays an attitude of respect and courtesy toward all patients, physicians and co-workers. Maintains a professional manner with co-workers, physicians and patients.

Standard VIII. Demonstrates skill in oral and written communication techniques.

Criteria: Documents records, charge slips and other necessary forms accurately and in accordance with approved policies and procedures. Communicates information regarding patient's status to other persons responsible for care of the patient.

Standard IX. Demonstrates commitment to personal standards of professional competence through participating in continuing education and other appropriate learning experience.

Criteria: Maintains skill set and critical elements which are evaluated yearly.