PCU RN

Summary

Provides direct and indirect patient care in the progressive care setting. Communicates with physicians / Nurse Manager / co-workers, as appropriate about changes in patients 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 the PCU department with adequate supervision.

• 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.
• Ability to revise plan of care as indicated by the patients response to treatment and evaluate overall plan daily for effectiveness.
• Ability to perform waived testing (point-of-care testing) per Clinical Laboratorys and the resident care units policies and procedures.
• Ability to interpret results of waived tests; take appropriate action on waived tests results.
• Performs patient care responsibilities considering needs specific to the standard of care for patients age.
• Knowledge of medications and their correct administration based on age of the patient and their clinical condition.
• Follows the five (5) medication rights and reduces the potential for medication errors.
• Formulates a teaching plan based upon identified learning needs and evaluates effectiveness of learning, family is included in teaching as appropriate.
• Demonstrates an ability to assist physicians with procedures and performs services requiring technical and manual skills.
• Demonstrates ability to perform treatments and provide services to level licensure.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious / spiritual needs of patients and their families. Functions as liaison between administration, patients, physicians and other healthcare providers.
• Interacts professionally with patient / family and involves patient / family in the formation of the plan of care.
• Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and the skills necessary to provide age appropriate care to the patient population served. Able to interpret data about the patients status in order to identify each patients age specific needs and provide care needed by the patient group.
• Performs bedside report on patients at shift change; this includes any handoff of patient care.
• Provides morning / evening cares which may include brushing teeth, showering / bathing patients, pericares, and denture care.

Education / Experience :