Provides direct and indirect patient care in the medical-surgical setting. Communicates with physicians/Nurse Manager/co-workers, as appropriate about changes in patient's clinical condition including results of diagnostic studies and symptomatology. Is able to respond quickly and accurately to changes in condition or response to treatment. Additionally, is able to perform general nursing duties in all departments, with adequate supervision.

*Maintains accurate and continued nursing documentation including patient histories, conditions, treatments, responses and assessment of changes.

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

*Functions as liaison between administration, patients, physicians, and other healthcare providers.

*Knowledge of the principles of growth and development over patient life span and the skills necessary to provide age-appropriate care to the patient population served.

*Able to interpret data about the patient's status in order to identify each patient's age specific needs and provide care needed by the patient group.

*Interacts professionally with patient and family and involves patient and family in the formation of the plan of care.

*Ability to perform a head-to-toe assessment on all patients and reassessments as per policy. 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.

*Knowledge of medications and their correct administration based on age of the patient and their clinical condition.

*Follows the six medication rights and reduces the potential for medication errors.

*Ability to formulate an individualized plan of care, revise plan as indicated by the patient's response to treatment and evaluate overall plan daily for effectiveness.

*Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic, and religious/spiritual needs of patients and family.

*Communicates appropriately and clearly to charge nurse, coworkers, and physicians.

*Ability to assist physicians with procedures