RN - Oncology

Level 2 RN Oncology

Job Title: Level 2 RN Profession: Registered Nurse Specialty: Oncology Duration: 13 weeks Shift: 3x12.5 Experience: Minimum 2 years of Med-Surg experience required. Minimum 1 year of travel experience required. License: Unencumbered RN License Certifications: BLS

Description: This nurse is responsible for patient assessment, care planning, medication administration, and collaboration with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure high-quality, compassionate care. Med-Surg RNs manage patients' needs throughout their hospitalization, focusing on recovery, education, and overall well-being. 90% of patients in this unit are Med-Surg with low volume oncology patients. Oncology patients will be cared for by core staff rather than travelers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients' physical, emotional, and psychological health upon admission and throughout their hospital stay.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans in collaboration with the healthcare team, considering patients' conditions, diagnoses, and goals for recovery.
• Monitor patient progress and adjust care plans as needed based on changing conditions or responses to treatment.
• Administer prescribed medications and treatments accurately, including oral, intravenous (IV), and injectable medications.
• Monitor and assess patient responses to medications and treatments, adjusting as necessary and reporting any adverse reactions or concerns to the healthcare team.
• Perform tasks such as wound care, dressing changes, and managing drains or tubes as required by the patient's condition.
• Monitor patients' vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and temperature.
• Document all patient assessments, interventions, medications, treatments, and outcomes in accordance with hospital policies and regulations.
• Identify and report any changes in patient status or complications, ensuring timely interventions are provided.
• Work collaboratively with physicians, specialists, physical therapists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to deliver holistic patient care.
• Participate in daily rounds and provide updates on patient status to the medical team.
• Communicate effectively with patients and families to discuss care plans, treatment options, and progress.
• Educate patients and their families on managing conditions, understanding surgical procedures, and preparing for discharge.
• Provide guidance on post-hospital care, including lifestyle modifications, medication instructions, and follow-up appointments.
• Offer emotional support and counseling to patients and families, addressing concerns and alleviating anxiety related to their conditions or treatments.
• Monitor patients recovering from surgery, assessing for complications such as infection, bleeding, or respiratory issues.
• Provide post-operative care, including pain management, wound care, and support for early mobilization.
• Ensure that patients are educated on how to manage their recovery at home, including follow-up appointments and signs of complications.
• Ensure patient safety by following protocols for infection control, fall prevention, and other safety measures.
• Maintain a sterile environment when performing medical procedures and use proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Follow policies related to medication administration, equipment usage, and patient confidentiality.
• Recognize and respond to emergencies, such as sudden changes in patient status, cardiac arrest, or respiratory distress.
• Provide immediate care for life-threatening conditions and coordinate with the emergency response team as necessary.
• Perform CPR and other life-saving interventions as needed.

Qualifications: Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid state nursing license. Previous experience in a medical-surgical setting for a minimum of 1 year is required. Experience with a variety of medical conditions, surgical procedures, and patient care needs is beneficial.

Skills and Abilities: Strong clinical knowledge and nursing skills, particularly in patient assessment, medication administration, and wound care. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. Ability to manage multiple patients and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced hospital environment. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to address patient concerns and changes in condition. Compassionate, patient-focused approach to nursing care.

Working Conditions: Med-Surg RNs work in hospital medical-surgical units, which may include both acute and subacute patient care settings. Shifts may include weekends and holidays. The role involves standing, walking, lifting, and assisting patients with mobility. Potential exposure to infectious diseases, requiring adherence to safety protocols and use of PPE.