Perioperative Nursing Assistant (PNA) Operating Room

Facility: Cobb Hospital

Overview
The Perioperative Nursing Assistant (PNA) is a support care provider who functions under the direction of the clinical nurse (Registered Professional Nurse). The PNA primary focus will be to promote a positive patient surgical experience by partnering with the surgical team to provide excellence in customer service within the surgical environment with age appropriate responsibilities. The PNA may aid in the preoperative holding area and with anesthesia personnel. The Perioperative Nursing Assistant practices aseptic technique in the performance of certain core job functions. The Perioperative Nursing Assistant assumes the responsibility for professional growth and self-development. The Perioperative Nursing Assistant can perform core job functions as identified in the skills checklist with minimal supervision. The PNA must be able to work in a fast-paced environment which requires multi-tasking activities and ongoing communication the surgical team. Must be able to perform under stressful conditions with a compassionate, respectful and helpful manner. Must be able to take direction from a variety of care providers. Must be organized with excellent communication skills.
Responsibilities
Core Responsibilites and Essential Functions

• Excellence in Customer Service by partnering with health care team, patient and family
  Patient Centered Care-Clinical Practice: Supports an environment of healing or wellness for patients which includes: addressing patient needs in partnership with the patient; following the plan of care as assigned or instructed by a licensed professional; and while carrying out role responsibilities, engages the patient and family in compliance with the treatment plan. Effectively contributes to the plan of care or treatment intervention based on assigned tasks and patient/family input in collaboration with the healthcare team with a focus on the care continuum. Consistently implements all safety interventions to minimize risk in achievement of intended outcomes
  
  • Protects rights and dignity of patient always
  • Maintains confidentiality adhering to HIPAA regulations and recommended privacy procedures
  • Present self in positive and professional manner and show sensitivity to concerns and needs of others
  • Provides patient care under the direction of the Clinical Surgical Team
  • Assist RN and other members of surgical care team with care delivery as assigned
  • Answers telephone calls professionally and communicates to healthcare team
  • Facilitate patient transport
  • Notifies Preop nurse when patient arrives to unit
  • Stock assigned areas with supplies needed for patient care
• Safety and Infection Control
  
  • Provides a safe environment for the provision of patient care
  • Consistent use of appropriate hand hygiene
  • Keeps OR rooms and unit areas clean and free of clutter
  • Follows appropriate PPE/Infection control policies
  • Reinforces the importance of universal precautions with patient and patient’s family
  • Utilizes proper body mechanics and lift equipment
• Communication
  
  • Uses effective written and oral communication skills with patients, staff, physicians, family and visitors
  • Uses safety communication techniques.
  • Communicates completion of assignment/duties to appropriate person
  • Communicates patient care concerns/problems/emergencies to the RN
  • Uses positive and respectful communication with all members of healthcare team, patients and families.
• Team Work
  
  • Supports initiatives of the Health care team
  • Participates in unit performance improvement initiatives
  • Supports professional nursing practice through shared governance, evidenced-based practice and ethical accountability
  • Transports unit supplies, patient care supplies and equipment as assigned
  • Practices 200% accountability

Required for All Jobs

• Performs other duties as assigned
Complies with all WellStar Health System policies, standards of work, and code of conduct.

Qualifications
Required Minimum Education

• High school diploma high school graduate Required or
• GED equivalent Required

Required Minimum Experience

• Less than 1 year six months’ experience in procedural area or environmental services. Preferred

Required Minimum Skills

• The Perioperative Nursing Assistant can work collaboratively with the perioperative team and to function independently under the direction of the charge nurse.
• The Perioperative Nursing Assistant must perform multiple tasks in an organized and timely manner and must be self-motivated.
• The Perioperative Nursing Assistant must be able to effectively communicate and understand verbal and written English language and display a positive attitude.

Required Minimum License(s) and Certification(s)

• Basic Life Support Required
• BLS - Instructor Required
• BLS - Provisional Required

Additional Licenses and Certifications