SUMMARY: R.N. is responsible for the admission and pre-operative care of the surgical patient within the scope of practice as determined by the Board of Nursing within your state of Texas.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITY:
- Verifies the patient's identity and surgical procedure.
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Reviews consent forms with patient and answers patient’s questions relating to surgical procedure. The nurse will notify the operating physician for specific questions reserved for the surgeon.
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Implements the plan of care by: Protecting the patient from injury by performing an individualized risk assessment; Communicating the patient's current status to the appropriate parties throughout the continuum of care
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Provides information and emotional support for patients and their family members.
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Records baseline hemodynamic status gathers pre-operative vital signs; Blood Pressure, EKG monitoring, oximetry readings and documentation of such on pre-operative record.
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Identifies arrhythmias and notifies medical team members of findings.
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Gathers patient medical history and Allergies to medications.
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Starts I.V. unless anesthesiologist prefers to start his/her own I.V. on patient.
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Administers pre-operative oral or I.V. medications if ordered by the physician. Observes patient reaction to medication and acts appropriately when untoward reactions occur.
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Reviews Post-operative instructions with patient. Actively involves the patient or designated support person in decisions affecting his or her post-operative plan of care.
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Prepares local anesthesia if ordered.
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Assists team members to place and position patient on table.
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In the emergency, can give immediate respiratory assistance or support including use of AMBU bag and can administer CPR and venipuncture.
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Checking, maintenance, and knowledge of Crash Cart.
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Recognizes and utilizes safety precautions and procedures.
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Remains familiar with equipment and supplies; their location, function and up-keep. Re-stocks unit with supplies when needed.
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Maintains a comfortable, orderly, clean, and safe environment for the Pre-operative Area.
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Protects the patient's rights, dignity, and privacy.
QUALIFICATIONS:
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree preferred.
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8+ months of recent work experience as an RN in Pre-Op (not including clinicals)
- Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice.
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BLS and ACLS certifications required; additional certifications such as PALS may be preferred.
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Excellent IV skills
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Current TB Screen/Vaccination Record
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Valid Identification/Driver's License
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Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
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Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems and basic computer skills.
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Commitment to patient-centered care and professional excellence.