Registered Nurse - Outpatient Surgery

* Demonstrates knowledge and the skill understanding and using the Center’s computer system for documentation, charging list reports and inventory. Participates in training classes as needed.
* Maintains confidentiality of all information in the medical record and assigned computer codes.
* Maintains current knowledge of outpatient post anesthesia / peri-operative nursing practice. Utilizes opportunities for professional growth by attending continuing education programs.
* Attends seminars and meetings relevant to PACU as requested by the Center.
* Becomes involved with research, new equipment, procedures for the Center.
* Maintains and ensures dress code and decorum. Prominently wears name identification badge    at all times. Introduces self to patients and patient family members.
* Promotes good image of Center to patients, physicians, vendors and community.
* Demonstrates professional behavior by being technically competent, skilled and responsive to the Center's customers in a compassionate, efficient and effective manner.
* Maintains competencies identified by the Center including but not limited to mandatory education, equipment and skill competency review lists, BLS, ACLS, and PALS as required by patient population.
* Makes self-knowledgeable as to the contents of the Center's Policy and Procedure Manual.
* Recovers patients per Recovery Phase I and II policy.
* Demonstrates knowledge of anesthesia agents.
* Interprets dysrhythmias, documents, and intervenes appropriately.
* Keeps family/significant others informed of patient progress.
* Demonstrates knowledge of surgical emergency preparedness, Malignant hypothermia. Cardiac Arrest, Latex Allergy.
* Maintains BCLS and code blue competency per policy.
* Recognizes changes in patient condition and responds appropriately.
* Reprioritizes and delegates other responsibilities during emergency situations.
* Functions calmly and efficiently.
* Proficient in the use of emergency equipment.
* Checks code cart and emergency equipment according to policy.
* Documents emergency intervention according to policy.
* Participates in the preparation of the patient for surgery
* Conducts patient pre-operative phone calls for complete review of medical and surgical history and provides preoperative instructions.
* Assists in obtaining pre-admission testings (PATs) and medical clearances as needed.
* Facilitates anesthesiologist's review of PATs and medical clearances.
* IV placement skills
* Follows physician orders for administration of pre-operative medications etc.
* Maintains communication with reception area and O.R.’s to assure efficient movement of patients
* Implements and insures that physician orders are performed including orders delegated to other health care professionals.
* Demonstrates understanding and interpretation of diagnostic measures such as lab tests, radiology exams and EKG.
* Ensures that the Code carts are fully equipped, defibrillators are in operational readiness and that daily checks are completed.
* Works flexible hours assuming responsibility and accountability for providing patient care.
* Maintains knowledge of asepsis, infection control and standard/universal precautions.
* Reduces chances of nosocomial infection by directing attention to infection preventing and control and environmental safety practices.
* Conducts patient postoperative follow up calls and completes all documentations within the defined timeframe.
* Performs preoperative assessments and reviews in a timely manner
* Demonstrates the skill to assume charge nurse responsibilities in the absence of the nurse manager as assigned.
* Maintains confidentiality of all information and the medical record and assigned computer codes.
* Actively communicates and supports the Organization's Mission, Values, Ethics, Philosophy, Objectives, and Policies and Procedures.
* Demonstrates an understanding of how the success of the surgery center is linked to the success or failure of the customer process.
* Demonstrates safe habits in the work place with a concern for the safety of patients, families, and staff.
* Maintains current knowledge of the Center's Emergency Preparedness protocols and procedures.
* Applies OSHA standards.
* Provides a summary of post-op instructions to patients prior to discharge from the center.
* Identifies strategies to increase competency of team members
* Associates degree required. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
* New Jersey State Nursing License required.  BLS and ACLS required.  PALS preferred.
* 2-4 years experience required.  5+ years preferred.
* Ability to communicate in English, both orally and in writing required.
* Strong interpersonal and organizational skills required.
* Ability to perform diverse work assignments with time limitations with a high degree of accuracy required.
* Ability to use problem solving, critical thinking and priority setting skills required.
* Must be able maintain annual competencies.
* Experience with Standard Office Equipment (Phone, Fax, Copy Machine, Scanner,…