Assistant Head Nurse

Registered Nurse

A Registered Nurse assists and supports the Nurse Manager in the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of the nursing care delivered on a specific patient care unit. In the Nurse Manager's absence, assumes the leadership role in the supervision of nursing staff (RN/LPN/NA/WC) in the provision of patient care.

Responsibilities

Performs Charge Nurse responsibilities for an assigned shift.

Monitors staff compliance to standards of care, policies and procedures, etc.

Assists in the coordination of unit-based Q.A. & I activities. Collects data and provides analysis and evaluation to the Nurse Manager and shares performance improvement results with staff.

Assumes responsibilities on her respective shift at directed by the Nurse Manager.

Directs staff in manner that provides optimum care to the patients.

Provides guidance, assistance and direction to nursing staff in assessing patient needs, planning patient goals, developing, evaluating and modifying Nursing Care Plans.

Maintains open channel of communication between all shifts to share pertinent information regarding patient's continuity and quality of patient care.

Participates in the evaluation of the quality of care and makes appropriate recommendations.

Assigns appropriate professional and ancillary nursing staff based on Nursing Policy & Procedure:

• Complexity of the patient's condition and required nursing care.
• Dynamics of the patient's status including frequency of change and/or patient care
• The staff's competency to effectively complete the required patient assessment and nursing intervention.
• Type of technology employed in providing nursing care (knowledge & skill).
• Degree and availability of supervision required by each nursing staff member.
• Relevant infection control guidelines and patient safety

Actively participate in the weekly interdisciplinary meetings to improve quality patient care/needs.

Ensures the maintenance of all unit operations including:

• Routine shift check of crash cart, 02, suction machine, defibrillator, medication cabinet and refrigerator (expired coeds and temperature), pantry refrigerator and narcotic count.
• Timely completion of patient admission and discharge
• Safety check of all clinical equipment.
• Adequate supply of medical/surgical and stationery supplies.

Confers regularly with the Nurse Manager to seek guidance and direction regarding patient care and personnel.

Participates in unit orientation of new staff members.

Administers direct nursing care to an assigned patient load.

Maintains a clean and safe patient care environment.

Actively participates in and demonstrates knowledge of unit quality assurance and improvement.

Performs other professional and related duties as required.

Serves as a member of the interdisciplinary team to review/implement discharge planning needs of all patients/families.

Serves as a resource person for nursing staff regarding the assessment, planning, intervention and evaluation of patient outcomes to treatment and education.

Collaborates with members of the health care team, assesses and evaluates the patients' response to treatment and readiness for discharge.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing.
• Attends a minimum of 2 continuing education seminars/year.

Experience:

• Minimum 2-3 years experience in clinical specialty.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Demonstrates strong leadership abilities.

Licenses, Certifications:

• Current NY State RN License required.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) required.
• Additional certifications may be required based on specialty.

Physical Requirements:

• Involves standing, walking, sitting, talking, hearing and bending.
• May include some repetitive motions.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising patient care.

One Brooklyn Health System, Inc.