Registered Nurse

The Registered Nurse reports to the Ambulatory Practice Manager and under the general supervision of the attending physician and in accordance with established policies and procedures the professional Registered Nurse acts as a patient advocate in the application of the nursing process. All essential functions performed in this position reflect the age specific needs of the Rheumatology patients.

Provides basic comfort and support according to patient needs. Fosters patient(s) participation in achieving optimum level of patient�s status. Seeks guidance and resources when necessary in care and treatment of patients.

Identifies and assesses emergency situations. Initiates appropriate response and intervention.

Plans for potential needs during emergency situations.

Triages all patient phone calls and responds to all phone calls by the end of each day. The Staff Nurse will assist the patient in scheduling the proper appointment(s) as needed.

During initial appointments the Staff Nurse obtains a complete medical history weight vitals and a description of the current concern in preparation for their visit with the physician.

Performs injections and assists physician with procedures if needed.

Provides Rheumatological education referrals to physical therapy or other specialties queues up lab and medication orders if needed.

Reviews lab results daily. Contact patients in a timely manner when results are abnormal.

Implements nursing interventions and evaluates based on patient�s outcomes. Modifies plan or care accordingly including documentation.

Functions in a cooperative and productive manner in the work environment.

Follows all documentation guidelines per policy and procedure.

Maintains quality assurance safety environmental and infection control in accordance with established hospital department policies procedures and objectives. Maintains safe environment for patients visitors and staff. Participates in quality improvement processes and risk management activities. Attends practice meetings.

Provides guidance and direction to colleagues and acts as a resource for Medical Assistants.

Performs other duties as necessary.

Licensure as Registered Nurse in the State of Rhode Island by the Rhode Island Board of Nursing or licensure as a Registered Nurse in accordance with the Nurse Licensure Compact agreement of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

BASIC KNOWLEDGE:

Graduate of a school of nursing Baccalaureate in Nursing preferred with current license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Rhode Island.

Basic Life Support (American Heart Association)

Conformity to the Code of Professional Nurses

Understanding of the provisions of the Nurse Practice Act of the state of Rhode Island.

Demonstrates knowledge and skills necessary to provide care to patients throughout the life span with consideration of aging processes human development stages and sensitivity to cultural diversity in each step of the care process.

EXPERIENCE:

Out-patient physician medical office experience preferred.

Rheumatology experience highly preferred.

Must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills and effective prioritization and organizational skills.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None.