Travel Nurse RN - Med Surg
Billings, MT
TotalMed RN
3x12 hrs, Days
Referral Bonus

Unit Overview

• 35-bed Med/Surg Ortho-Neuro unit
• Average daily census: 32-35 patients
• Minimum 2 years of acute care experience required
• First-time travelers accepted
• Manager interview required

Required Certifications

• BLS
• NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS)
  • AHA NIHSS certification is not accepted

Technology & Equipment

• EMR: Cerner
• IV Pumps: Alaris
• Medication Dispensing: Omnicell

Patient Population

Orthopedic Patients

• Total joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
• Fractures
• Ankle repairs
• Spinal surgeries
  • Laminectomies
  • Discectomies
  • Spinal fusions (including multi-level fusions)
• Trauma patients
• External fixation devices

Neurological Patients

• Stroke
• TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)
• Stroke rule-outs
• Seizure monitoring
• Head injuries
• Altered mental status
• ALS
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Post-operative craniotomies (not fresh post-op)
• Encephalitis

Medical Overflow

• CHF
• COPD
• CIWA patients
• Respiratory disorders
• GI disorders
• Renal conditions
• Liver disease

Patient Ratios

Days

• 1:4-5

Nights

• 1:5-6

Required Skills

Candidates must be proficient in:

• NIHSS assessments
• Neuro assessments and stroke monitoring
• Orthopedic patient mobilization with precautions
• NG tube insertion and maintenance
• PEG tube feeding and management
• Dysphagia screening
• Peripheral IV insertion and maintenance
• Foley catheter insertion and care
• Dressing changes and wound care
• Wound VAC management
• Drain management
• PCA pump management
• Cardiac rhythm interpretation
• Blood product administration
• IVIG administration
• External fixation care and pin-site management

Unit Support

The unit is supported by:

• CNAs (ratios approximately 1:6-12, depending on shift)
• Health Unit Coordinator (0630-1900)
• Charge Nurse (typically without patient assignments)
• Admit/Discharge RN (weekdays)
• Phlebotomy Team
• PICC Team
• Respiratory Therapy (24/7)
• Hospitalists (24/7)

• Intensivists (24/7)

   

Floating

• Travelers may float to any inpatient unit caring for Med/Surg patients.
• Travelers are the first staff members floated when needed.