POSITION SUMMARY

DEFINITION

Under supervision, to perform professional nursing duties in the care and services to patients and their families in an acute care and non-acute care facility; to assist physicians and carry out their orders; and to do other work as required.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is a single position class in which the incumbent’s responsibility of functioning must be based on the advance knowledge and skills in providing care and service to patients with more complex problems and needs (depending on training and experience). Incumbents are assigned to work or float in appropriate areas. Responsibilities are expanded to include participation in activities relating to quality assurance, policy and procedure review/revision, in-service education and staff development.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Possession of Associate Degree in Nursing or successful completion of an accredited Registered Nurse Program as evidence by licensure, from a recognized college or university.

Experience

Six months within the past two years in gen acute care facility; or acquired appropriate equivalent competency. Experience in a Skilled Nursing Facility preferred.

Licensure/Certification

Possession of a valid license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of California.

BLS Certification

KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

• Hospital established policies quality assurance program, safety, environmental and infection control policies and procedures and Nursing Practice Act of the State of California.
• The principles, methods, and techniques for the use of restraints and/or seclusion.
• Medical instruments and equipment.
• Medical terminology and hospital routine.
• The uses and effects and appropriate documentation of medicine and narcotics.
• Community resources available to provide patient care and follow-up.
• Federal, State, and local laws and regulations governing professional aspects of nursing.

Ability to:

• Perform the full range of nursing duties and responsibilities in an acute care and non-acute care setting.
• Plan and organize nursing plans for patients.
• Apply principles and techniques to develop and implement treatment plan for the use of restraints and/or seclusion when use is indicated.
• Prepare and maintain concise and complete records and reports.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with physicians, patients and fellow employees, and all internal and external customers.
• Manage emergency or crisis situations; requires judgement/action, which could result in undesirable patient outcomes.
• Secure the cooperation of employees to work effectively together.
• Keep abreast of developments in area of nursing specialization.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.

AGE-SPECIFIC COMPETENCY (if applicable)

Maintains, demonstrates and is assessed on the knowledge and skills necessary to provide for the physical, psychosocial and cultural needs appropriate to the age of the patients served on his/her assigned unit.