Telemetry Registered Nurse (RN)

Unit Information

This busy unit features 22 beds and specializes in the care of patients with a variety of conditions, including strokes, transient ischemic attacks (TIA), seizures, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and mixed medical telemetry cases.

Certifications Required

• ACLS
• BLS
• NIHSS

Nurse to Patient Ratios

The nurse-to-patient ratio on this unit is 1:3-4.

Technology and Equipment

The unit utilizes Cerner for Electronic Medical Records (EMR). Telemetry is monitored through GE Apex Telemetry boxes, supported by a dedicated team of 2 Monitor Techs. Nurses are expected to read and interpret their own telemetry strips and must pass a dysrhythmia exam.

Common Medications and Drips

Nurses will administer various titratable and set rate drips, including:

• Heparin gtt
• Amiodarone gtt
• Cardizem gtt
• DKA set rate or protocol

Nurses are not required to titrate drips.

Staffing Structure

The unit is supported by one Nurse Shift Manager and one Resource/Break RN who do not take patient assignments. There are also 1-2 Unit Aides providing additional support.

Shift Details and Scheduling

• Shifts are 12 hours long, running from 6:45 AM to 7:15 PM.
• Schedules are created approximately 3 weeks in advance.
• Self-scheduling is permitted based on seniority, with options for shift trading available.
• Weekend requirements include working 4 weekend shifts within a 4-week schedule, with Saturday/Sunday days and Friday/Saturday nights.

Holiday and Call Requirements

Nurses work into the permanent staff holiday rotation, and there are no call or standby requirements.

Floating Requirements

Nurses may be required to float to the IMCU or Med/Surg departments as needed.

Dress Code

Nurses are required to wear navy scrubs. Scrubs are not provided by the unit.

Orientation

An orientation session lasting one shift is provided for all new nurses on the unit.

Additional Notes

The unit prioritizes bedside shift reports, focusing on patient experience, HCAHPS, and core measures, particularly regarding stroke assessments. Candidates should be self-motivated, team-oriented, and share a commitment to the unit’s mission and values.