Medical-Surgical Nurse Manager
Northampton, MA
Magnet Medical
5x8 hrs, Days

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides direct patient care, working in collaboration with healthcare teams to ensure high-quality care, safety, and comfort for patients. RNs assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care, and they are responsible for administering medications, monitoring patient progress, and offering support to patients and their families. This role may vary depending on the department and healthcare setting (e.g., medical-surgical, ICU, ER, etc.), but it always requires strong clinical knowledge, critical thinking, and compassionate care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patient Assessment and Care Planning:

  • Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients’ physical, emotional, and psychological needs upon admission and throughout their care.
  • Develop, implement, and update individualized care plans based on patient assessments and interdisciplinary team discussions.
  • Regularly evaluate patient progress and modify care plans accordingly to meet their needs and health goals.

• Administering Medications and Treatments:

  • Administer medications, treatments, and IV therapy as prescribed by the physician, ensuring proper dosages and monitoring for adverse reactions.
  • Maintain accurate records of medications and treatments given and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
  • Monitor for and respond to any side effects or complications related to treatments or medications.

• Patient Monitoring:

  • Monitor vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, oxygen saturation, etc.), as well as other critical indicators specific to patient needs.
  • Perform diagnostic tests, such as blood draws, ECGs, or urine tests, and communicate results to the appropriate healthcare team members.
  • Document patient status, changes in condition, and any interventions in the electronic health record (EHR).

• Patient Education and Support:

  • Educate patients and families about diagnoses, treatment plans, medications, recovery processes, and lifestyle changes needed to support health.
  • Provide emotional and psychological support to patients and families, addressing concerns, anxieties, and offering comfort.
  • Teach patients about preventative care, home care instructions, and how to manage chronic conditions post-discharge.

• Collaboration with Healthcare Team:

  • Work with physicians, nurse practitioners, technicians, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans.
  • Communicate effectively with the interdisciplinary team to discuss patient progress, needs, and any changes in care.
  • Advocate for patient care needs and ensure the coordination of care across disciplines, such as physical therapy, nutrition, and social services.

• Emergency and Critical Care:

  • Respond promptly to emergencies, including cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and other urgent conditions, utilizing life-saving measures as needed (e.g., CPR, ACLS).
  • Assess and stabilize patients in acute situations, collaborating with the healthcare team to determine the most appropriate interventions.

• Infection Control and Safety:

  • Follow infection control policies and procedures, including proper hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintaining a sterile environment.
  • Ensure patient safety by identifying potential risks and taking steps to prevent harm (e.g., fall prevention, pressure ulcer prevention).

• Documentation and Reporting:

  • Accurately document all aspects of patient care, including assessments, treatments, responses, and changes in condition.
  • Ensure that records comply with hospital policies, legal requirements, and accreditation standards.
  • Report significant changes in patient status to physicians and other healthcare team members in a timely manner.

• Patient Discharge:

  • Assist with patient discharge by ensuring the patient has all necessary instructions, medications, and follow-up appointments scheduled.
  • Provide education on self-care and symptom management after discharge, and ensure patients understand the importance of follow-up care.

• Professional Development:

  • Stay current on the latest clinical practices, technologies, and nursing research through continuing education, certifications, and training.
  • Participate in departmental meetings, peer reviews, and professional committees to ensure best practices and patient safety.