Medical Surgical Registered Nurse (RN)

Job Description

This position is required for a fast-paced Medical Surgical unit that integrates adult and pediatric telemetry care. The role involves caring for a variety of patients, including those with respiratory conditions, post-operative needs, and other medical complications. Pediatric experience is preferred, but candidates without such experience will be ineligible to care for pediatric patients.

Unit Information

• Bed Capacity: 45 total beds (adult and pediatric combined)
• Nurse to Patient Ratio: 1:5
• Common Diagnoses:
  • Respiratory conditions (e.g., COPD)
  • Post-operative care
  • Gastrointestinal bleeds
  • OBGYN surgeries
  • Orthopedic cases
  • Sepsis
  • Altered mental status
  • Chest pain rule-out
  • Stroke care
  • Cellulitis
  • Alcohol withdrawal

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality nursing care to medical-surgical patients.
• Titrate intravenous medications, including Heparin and Protonix.
• Monitor patient outcomes and report changes.
• Collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals, including hospitalists who are available 24/7.
• Participate in unit orientation activities, including staff engagement activities such as a scavenger hunt.

Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years in medical-surgical nursing; pediatric experience is highly preferred.
• Required Certifications: BLS; PALS certification is preferred.
• Monitoring Responsibilities: While nurses do not have to interpret telemetry strips, familiarity with monitors is beneficial.
• Support Staff: Nurse aides available for shifts, with certain hours reliant on RN support.

Scheduling and Shift Details

• Shifts: 12-hour shifts (7 AM to 7 PM); some self-scheduling options available.
• Weekend Requirement: Every other weekend or up to 4 weekend shifts within a 4-week schedule.
• Holiday Requirement: Participation in staff rotation for holiday coverage.
• Call Requirements: Yes, call or standby may be required.
• Floating: Optional floating to telemetry or OB units for those with the required experience.

Dress Code

Naval Blue scrubs are required for all staff members on the unit.

This fast-paced unit experiences a high turnover with an average patient stay of three days, making organizational skills and adaptability essential for success in this role.