RN - ER

Emergency Department Registered Nurse

The Emergency Department Registered Nurse applies knowledge of nursing theory, technical skills, and communication skills in delivering high-quality, compassionate care to patients and families. The ED RN assesses patient needs, identifies urgent or emergent care priorities, and collaboratively provides direct care, applies appropriate interventions, and evaluates patient progress. The ED RN demonstrates skill in using various invasive and non-invasive procedures, treatments, and therapeutic interventions appropriate to manage life-threatening and routine emergency situations. The ED RN utilizes the principles of relationship-based care to alleviate anxiety, provide information, and address pain, discomfort, and safety. He/She assesses the physiological, psychosocial, emotional, and cultural needs of patients of all age groups, their families, and support systems as appropriate. Connects with patients and families during triage. Identifies the initial management of patients of all age groups and assigns priority of care in accordance with triage standards. Establishes rapport with patients and families, addresses comfort needs, listens carefully, assesses nonverbal communication, and provides frequent updates. Conveys and gathers information concisely and accurately. Conducts primary assessments of critical needs, detects and documents major deviations from normal for all age groups within acceptable time frames, and correctly identifies necessary steps and interventions. Uses direct observation, patient/family interviews, EMS reports, and data to conduct secondary assessments. Identifies contributing factors, health history, events, or activities preceding emergent health events. Assesses the psychosocial needs of each individual, including family dynamics, and documents and reports any suspicion of domestic violence or abuse in all age groups. Reassesses the patient to identify responses to treatment and changes in condition, responding appropriately. Encourages and builds mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members to accomplish the best patient outcomes. Teaches others as appropriate and delegates tasks consistent with individual education, training, and scope of practice. Understands personal responsibility to safeguard public safety through compliance with infection prevention strategies. Prepares patients and families for diagnostic procedures and treatments. Makes appropriate referrals for post-emergency care. Teaches patients what is needed for continued care and healing at home. Assesses patient/family learning styles and structures sessions to maximize understanding. Asks questions to evaluate retention of key points in education and discharge instruction. Seeks to understand what is most important to the patient and family, acknowledging that they are the central focus of care. Embraces the importance of creating a healing environment as a key element of professional nursing practice. Keeps patients and significant others informed of care processes. Anticipates patient/family needs and maintains awareness of the patient's condition throughout the emergency department visit. Updates patient communication boards throughout the emergency department stay.