POSITION PURPOSE

Provides care in the ambulatory setting directed toward meeting both the psychosocial and physical needs of the patient. Is a resource person and teacher. Care given reflects initiative and responsibility indicative of professional expectations. Utilizes initiative and strives to maintain a steady level of productivity. Is a self-starter. Is compatible and supportive, and a team player. Communicating on behalf of the patient reflects the mission, ethics, and goals of the facility, as well as the focus statement of the department.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.

Experience:

Prior operating room, surgical or circulator experience is preferred. Previous experience in MedSurg and/or ambulatory surgery is preferred.

Licenses/Certificates:

Current Unencumbered Registered Nurse License in the State of Mississippi or compact state.

Two (2) years nursing experience preferred.

Current BCLS certification.

Current BCLS and ACLS certification or Basic EKG or Arrhythmia Identification certification.

Competencies:

Coordinates and supervises patient care.

Gives care to the patient, reflecting flexibility in rules and regulations, as indicated by individual patient needs.

Makes decisions reflecting knowledge of facts, knowledge of diseases/surgical conditions, care required and good judgment.

Performance reflects knowledge in all areas of care specific to outpatient surgery (i.e., GI, autologous, conscious sedation).

Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly.

Organizes and manages nursing activities reflecting due consideration for patients’ needs and the needs of the facility and staff.

Utilizes initiative; strives to maintain steady level of productivity; a self-starter; compatible and supportive; a team player.

Knowledge of medications and IV fluids and their correct administration, based on age of the patient and patient’s clinical condition.

Follows the seven (7) medication rights and reduces the potential for medication errors.

Ability to perform a head-to-toe preoperative assessment on all patients and reassess, as needed postoperatively. This includes pediatric, geriatric and the general patient population.

Ability to adequately assess and reassess pain. Utilizes appropriate pain management techniques. Educates the patient and family regarding pain management.

Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.

Supports and maintains a culture of safety and quality.

Ability to formulate an individualized plan of care, as indicated, and evaluates for effectiveness.

Formulates a teaching plan, based on identified patient learning needs, and evaluates effectiveness of learning; family is included in teaching, as appropriate, from preop to discharge.

Provides patient with explanation and verbal reassurance consistently.

Identifies physical symptoms and changes and takes appropriate action in a timely manner.

Knowledge of cardiac monitoring and can identify dysrhythmias.

Communicates appropriately and clearly to Ambulatory Care Services Nurse Manager, co-workers, and physicians.

Consults other departments, as needed and as appropriate, to provide for an interdisciplinary approach to the patient’s needs.

Demonstrates an ability to assist physicians in the OPS/GI unit.

Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.

Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Practices good guest relations.

Maintains a good working relationship and effective communication both within the department and with other departments for the benefit of the patient

Meets current documentation standards and policies and completes within the shift.

Identifies and addresses psychosocial needs of patients and family.

Carries out medical and surgical asepsis during treatments and special procedures.

Maintains an environment that provides the patient and family with feelings of safety and security.

VISUAL AND HEARING REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to see with corrective eye wear
• Must be able to hear clearly with assistance
• May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases. May be in contact with patients in a wide variety of circumstances. Able to handle emergency or crisis situations. Occasionally subject to irregular hours. May be required to wear protective equipment as necessary.

Quality Improvement/Innovation

• Identifies and challenges work processes.
• Works toward continuous improvement based on customer needs.
• Contributes new ideas, makes helpful suggestions for change.
• Works effectively as a part of the team, participates and supports group efforts.

Department/Job Specific Competencies

• Handwashing / Infection Control
• Security Awareness
• Privacy Awareness