RN Resident - Med-Surg

Registered Nurse Resident

Location: Boone, North Carolina Full-Time | Multiple Departments | Hospital-Based

Position Overview

The RN Resident provides direct and indirect patient care services to meet the psychosocial, physical, and restorative needs of patients under the supervision of a licensed Registered Nurse. The RN Resident contributes to compassionate, respectful care while reflecting UNC Health Appalachian's Mission, Vision, and Values in action.

This position participates in structured classes, training, and supervised precepting to build clinical skills. RN Residents are expected to demonstrate professionalism, accountability, communication, and teamwork while supporting high standards for patient experience, quality, and safety.

The RN Resident does not independently perform RN functions requiring licensure until successful completion of the NCLEX examination and official registration with the applicable Board of Nursing.

Compensation & Schedule

Starting Pay: $34.00 per hour, commensurate with education and experience

Additional Pay: Eligible for shift differentials based on department and schedule

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment.

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plan with employer match
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement opportunities
• Employee wellness program, "Love Your Life"
• Employee-to-Employee (E2E) assistance program
• Employee discounts to regional attractions including Dollywood, Biltmore Estate, Tweetsie Railroad, and more
• Structured RN Residency Program with mentorship and preceptorship
• Career advancement and professional development opportunities

Why You'll Love Living in Boone

• Stunning mountain scenery and year-round outdoor recreation
• Hiking, skiing, biking, fishing, and countless outdoor adventures
• A vibrant downtown community and strong local culture
• Highly rated public schools
• Home to Appalachian State University
• Easy access to Asheville, Charlotte, and the Blue Ridge Parkway

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct and indirect patient care under the supervision of a licensed RN.
• Participate in structured education, training sessions, and supervised precepting.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, team members, and leadership.
• Assist coworkers, patients, families, and visitors within scope of practice.
• Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and alignment with UNC Health Appalachian values.
• Maintain readiness to respond to emergencies and changes in patient conditions.

Position Requirements

Minimum Education

• Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing.
• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) required.

Experience

• Prior healthcare experience in an acute care or clinic setting preferred.

Required Licensure & Certifications

• Must obtain an active Registered Nurse (RN) license, validated by primary source, before independently performing RN functions.
• Current American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required at time of hire.

Additional certifications required within one year of hire based on department assignment may include:

• ACLS
• PALS
• ENPC
• TNCC
• NRP (Birthing Center only)

Certification Requirements by Department

Department - BLS - ACLS - PALS/ENPC - TNCC - NRP

Med Surg/Ortho - Required - Preferred - - -

IMCU - Required - Required - Required - -

ICU - Required - Required - Required - -

Emergency Department - Required - Required - Required - Preferred -

Outpatient Surgery - Required - Required - Required - -

Operating Room - Required - Required - Preferred - -

Recovery/Peri-Op - Required - Required - Required - -

Birthing Center - Required - Required - Preferred - - Required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Effective and courteous communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
• Ability to provide safe, patient-centered care within licensure limitations and organizational policies.
• Strong understanding of the nursing care continuum and service excellence.
• Ability to remain composed and professional in dynamic and high-stress environments.
• Strong organizational, teamwork, and critical-thinking skills.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift, position, push, pull, and transfer more than 50 pounds.
• Manual dexterity and mobility required to safely perform patient care activities.
• Frequent standing, walking, sitting, bending, squatting, twisting, turning, and reaching.
• Ability to perform repetitive hand, finger, and wrist movements.
• Visual acuity required for close patient care activities and documentation.

Working Conditions

• Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other healthcare-related hazards.
• Exposure to chemicals, equipment, and clinical environments common to healthcare settings.
• Work schedules may include days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, on-call responsibilities, and emergency situations.
• Extended periods of standing, walking, and patient mobilization may exceed eight hours per shift.
• Potential exposure to vibration, confined workspaces, and ionizing or non-ionizing radiation, depending on department assignment.

About UNC Health Appalachian

UNC Health Appalachian is the leading healthcare provider serving North Carolina's High Country. Our system includes three hospitals, 13 medical practices, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and the Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation.

Our mission is to promote health, enhance quality of life, and make life better for the communities we serve. Through compassionate care, clinical excellence, and community engagement, we are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of our patients and families.

About UNC Health

UNC Health is an integrated healthcare system affiliated with the University of North Carolina. The system includes 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses, and more than 500 clinics across North Carolina.

UNC Health is committed to improving the health and well-being of North Carolinians while supporting the education, research, and development of future healthcare professionals. Through innovation, collaboration, and patient-centered care, UNC Health continues to advance healthcare throughout the region.

Equal Opportunity Employer

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to a fair, respectful hiring process and providing reasonable accommodations throughout the application process.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

For accommodations or additional information, please contact: View email address on click.appcast.io.