LPN or RN Triage/ Office Nurse

Who we Are:

Nestled into the most northern part of Vermont, North Country Hospital is a community-focused 25 bed critical access hospital, where we prioritize the well-being of our neighbors. North Country Hospital is more than just a healthcare provider; we are a vital part of the community, working together to build a healthier future.  Our patient’s health is our priority, and we go above and beyond to care in every way possible.

Position Statement

Coordinates and administers nursing care for patients who present to the practice for acute, chronic or preventative services. Works with the patient’s provider to establish goals and meet identified health care needs to improve the overall health of patients. Works cooperatively with other patient care team personnel in maintaining standards of professional nursing practice in the medical practice setting.  Develop individual guidelines for patient specific education.

Provides triage both by phone for the patients who contact the practice and for emergent patients who present to the office using approved algorithms of health assessment guidelines.

Key Responsibilities:

• Receives and greets patients in a professional and friendly manner. Participates in the establishment of the immediate needs and details of past medical history and prepares patient for exam. Responsible for checking vital signs appropriate for standard of care relating to specific illness. Checks allergies and medication list, updating the chart as necessary to maintain correct information for the provider. Updates the electronic health record to maintain accurate records.
• Reviews and reconciles Med lists with patients. Alerts provider regarding compliance with medications. Send refills per protocol/standing order.
• Works in accordance with the guidelines established by the State Board of nursing for RN's when performing both telephone triage and assessing acute patients who present to the practice.  Speaks with patients or care providers who call the practice with medical concerns, assessing patients with physical complaints, and making appropriate recommendations based on that assessment, including recommendation for the patient to be seen in office or in the emergency room.  Follow-up on telephone contacts as needed. Use the prescribed EMR to document all services provided to the patient.
• Works in accordance with directive established by the provider in performing minor procedures and screening tests and administer injections as needed: including blood pressure checks, blood sugar screenings, ear irrigation, allergy shots, flu shots, urinalysis, strep screens and other clinic specific testing. Draws blood for lab testing following phlebotomy procedure and lab protocol for collection.
• Reviews and assists with tasks assigned within the electronic medical record. Administering medications and vaccines according to office procedure as well as specific protocols of the manufacturer.
• Establishes and maintains communication and utilizes teaching opportunities with patients and other significant individuals including education regarding diet, medications, and testing needs, with methods suitable for individual learning abilities.
• Coordinates care with the community and regional ancillary health services for extended needs of the patient in cooperation with a care plan developed by the practice clinical team.
• Calls patients with lab results or new orders as needed.
• Obtain refills of prescriptions when indicated, according to office policy
• Responsible for the daily controls on lab equipment according to CLIA requirements,  daily preparation and upkeep of exam rooms, maintenance of emergency equipment and supplies as per office protocol.

The above statements reflect the general duties considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job as identified and shall not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in this position.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Vermont licensed RN. One to two years clinical experience in the office setting preferred.
• Understanding of medical and social aspects of chronic and acute disease affecting patients.
• Computer literacy: patients charts are maintained electronically; Documentation requires understanding of program or ability to learn and to comprehend
• Ability to work in a busy office and maintain a cooperative and professional attitude
• Ability to greet and interact with public in a tactful, compassionate manner.
• Maintain confidentiality
• BLS required
• ACLS and PALS encouraged.