Registered Nurse - Full-time

Griffin Health Breast Surgery RNGriffin Health is an independent, not-for-profit healthcare system in Derby, Connecticut, dedicated to person-centered, high-quality care for over 130,000 residents. Anchored by Griffin Hospital—a 160-bed acute care community teaching hospital and Planetree International's flagship facility—Griffin Health emphasizes kindness, respect, and active patient engagement.Recognized nationally and internationally for clinical excellence, patient satisfaction, and social responsibility, Griffin has earned honors such as Newsweek's "World's Best Hospital" list for the last 5 consecutive years, LOWN Institute's top state ranking for outcomes, and Becker's "100 Best Community Hospitals" designation, as well as Fortune's Magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For". The organization fosters a supportive, wellness-focused work environment with programs like Griffin AgeLess, empowering caregivers to thrive physically, emotionally, and professionally. Through innovation, community outreach, health education, and food-security initiatives, Griffin Health advances whole-person healing and strengthens the communities it serves.Griffin's suburban atmosphere offers an easy commute, away from congested cities with easy to find free parking. Employees can also take advantage of generous benefits and wellness programs that add distinct advantage in its employee compensation.Main Function:Breast Surgery is a highly specialized clinical environment that requires strong assessment skills, complex patient triage, and multidisciplinary coordination.Advanced Clinical AssessmentBreast surgery patients often present with:Post-operative complicationsLymphedema symptomsDrain issuesSigns of infectionAcute changes requiring rapid decision-makingRNs are licensed to perform full assessments and make independent clinical judgments, which is critical in determining urgency and escalating appropriately.Triage & Clinical Decision-MakingRN-level triage is required for:Post-op pain changesNew massesAbnormal imaging follow-upPost-surgical complicationsChemotherapy or radiation-related symptoms (for oncology-linked cases)In-Office ProceduresBreast surgery clinics often require RN support for:Seroma aspirationsDrain management and educationSuture/staple removalComplex wound careAssisting in biopsies and other in-office proceduresCoordination of High-Risk & Oncology PathwaysBreast surgery involves complex navigation:Coordination with oncology, genetics, plastics, radiologyReviewing and understanding pathologyManaging fast-track abnormal imaging notificationsSupporting high-risk or survivorship pathwaysThese tasks require the clinical knowledge and decision-making ability of an RN.Education & Psychosocial SupportBreast patients often require intensive education and support regarding:Cancer diagnosesSurgical optionsDrain careRecovery expectationsPre-/post-op instructionsRisk-reduction strategiesRNs are trained for therapeutic communication, complex teaching, and emotional support—skills.Regulatory, Safety, & Compliance RequirementsBreast surgery care must align with:Commission on Cancer guidelinesNurse practice actsDocumentation and assessment standardsOncology and surgical protocolsRNs help maintain compliance due to their broader legal responsibilities and training.Advanced clinical assessment of breast symptoms, post-op complications, drains, wounds, and infection.High-level triage skills to determine urgency and escalate concerns appropriately.Expertise in breast-specific procedures, including assisting with biopsies, managing drains, performing dressing changes, and recognizing seroma/hematoma.Strong patient education abilities for pre-op, post-op, survivorship, and high-risk patients.Therapeutic communication to support patients facing cancer diagnoses or complex emotional needs.Care coordination across imaging, oncology, radiation, genetics, and plastic surgery.Understanding of pathology and imaging reports to support timely follow-up and provider workflows.Compliance and documentation proficiency aligned with surgical, oncology, and safety standards.Provide specialized support to patients. The nurse plays a critical role in helping patients understand new diagnoses and communicates the results of imaging studies (mammograms, ultrasound, MRI) and pathology directly to patients. This role ensures timely patient education, emotional support, and continuity of care.QualificationsLicenses & CertificationsRequiredRegistered NurseEqual Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.