RN - PCU

Registered NurseThe RN implements professional nursing practice centered on the patient as a whole person. The focus is on creating a caring environment that promotes healing and wellness. Nursing practices are based on evidence, current research, and professional guidelines. Clinical decision-making incorporates all four phases of the nursing process, alongside critical thinking and creativity. Nursing excellence is promoted through helping relationships among nursing staff and across other disciplines. The RN coordinates and provides direct patient care activities on the unit. Responsibilities include nursing rounds, assessments, treatments, and facilitating admission, transfer, and discharge activities. The RN also provides patient and family-centered education and individualized treatment planning. The role involves performing and documenting comprehensive assessments according to scope of practice and hospital policies. Consideration of the patient's culture, age, and developmental level is essential. The RN identifies patient risk factors and presenting complaints while obtaining health information as needed. Objective and subjective data are collected to inform patient care. The RN develops a problem list and prioritizes patient needs based on input from the inter-professional team. Actions and interventions are designed with respect to the patient's culture and age. The RN determines desired outcomes in coordination with patients and families in accordance with the medical plan of care. Patient care therapies and procedures are implemented with clinical autonomy within established guidelines. The RN explains procedures and treatments to patients and families. Actions are initiated to alleviate patient stress and discomfort. The RN recognizes and communicates changes in patient conditions appropriately. Ongoing assessments and responses to procedures and therapies are conducted and documented. The RN sets priorities for the care of multiple patients and ensures resource availability. Workload is organized for effective utilization of time relative to patient acuity. Tasks are delegated appropriately, with oversight of team members in patient care activities. The accuracy and completeness of delegated care are monitored. Educational needs of patients are identified and addressed according to their comprehension levels. The patient discharge process is facilitated by executing discharge orders in a timely manner. The RN provides input into patient/nurse assignments considering staffing and patient acuity. Active participation in unit-based activities supports organizational values and priorities. A positive group dynamic and healing environment are promoted through words and actions. Nursing excellence is assured in accordance with accepted standards and evidence-based practice. The RN actively participates in quality improvement activities and core measures. A holistic perspective regarding patient care is essential.