Observation Unit RN
Middleburg Heights, OH
Thrive Staffing
3x12 hrs, Flexible

Job Summary

This position is for a Registered Nurse (RN) in a general observation unit with high patient turnover, primarily caring for patients transitioning from the emergency department. The nurse plays a crucial role in monitoring patient conditions, providing basic nursing care, and assisting in the early detection of health issues.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Monitoring and Assessment:
  • Continuously monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and oxygen saturation, with timely updates and documentation.
  • Assess patients' overall physical condition and monitor for changes in symptoms or sudden deterioration.
  • Conduct routine physical exams and accurately record observations regarding patient health status.
  • Document and report significant changes in patient conditions to the medical team promptly.
• Basic Patient Care:
  • Administer medications and treatments as prescribed, ensuring accurate dosage and proper delivery methods.
  • Assist patients with daily living activities such as feeding, bathing, grooming, and mobility.
  • Provide comfort measures, including positioning, pain management, and emotional support.
  • Assist in collecting patient samples for laboratory testing.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Communicate effectively with physicians, specialists, and healthcare team members regarding patient care plans and progress.
  • Coordinate and plan patient care to ensure timely interventions.
  • Educate patients and their families on health conditions, treatment plans, and care instructions.
  • Update patient records regularly, documenting treatments, interventions, observations, and communications with healthcare providers.
• Emergency Response:
  • Recognize and respond to changes in patient conditions that may require urgent care or intervention.
  • Provide initial care and stabilization during emergencies and assist in further escalations as needed.
  • Follow emergency protocols, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other life-saving techniques.
• Infection Control and Safety:
  • Adhere to infection control policies, ensuring proper hygiene and sanitation in patient care environments.
  • Ensure patient safety by following safety protocols, including fall prevention and monitoring for signs of distress.
  • Maintain a clean and organized environment for patients and staff.
• Documentation and Record-Keeping:
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records in compliance with healthcare regulations and standards.
  • Document observations, interventions, and communications in the patient's medical chart in a timely manner.

Qualifications

• Education: Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid nursing license.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience in a general medical-surgical unit, observation, or a similar nursing field. Experience with patient monitoring, basic care procedures, and emergency response is preferred.
• Skills and Abilities:
  • Strong observational skills for identifying subtle changes in health.
  • Excellent communication skills for interacting with patients, families, and medical teams.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple patients and tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proficiency in basic nursing tasks, including medication administration and vital signs monitoring.
  • Compassionate and patient-centered approach to nursing care.

Working Conditions

Shifts may include weekends and holidays based on staffing needs. The role involves physical demands such as standing, walking, and lifting patients, as well as responding to emergencies.