Nursing Associate

Position Summary :

The Student Nurse Associate performs patient care and non- patient care functions under the direction of a Registered Professional Nurse. Duties include but are not limited to : ADL's, vital signs, I&O, performing EKGs, documentation of vital signs and I & O, simple dressing changes, specimen collection, assisting with meals, errands, transporting of patients or specimens, ambulating of patients, urinary drainage care, applying binders and emptying of external tube drainage (suprapubic, sumps, nasogastric), insertion of foley catheters, weighing patients, assisting physicians with procedures and physical exams, data collection, glucoscans, and other duties as assigned.

Job Responsibilities :

• Performs tasks listed in job summary according to policy & procedure and standards.
• Integrates patient's rights into work practice.
• Adheres to infection control standards to decrease the risk of nosocomial infections to patients and staff.
• Participates in Performance Improvement initiatives including data collection.
• Utilizes appropriate steps in the decision making process to include recognition and priority setting related to patient care and unit based issues.
• Collaborates and communicates with the health care team.
• Completes competency requirements.
• Attends mandatory in-services.
• Attends staff meetings as required / requested.
• Utilizes cost containment practices.
• Accurately utilizes the computer system for documentation.
• Adheres to all WPH standards of care, policies and procedures including dress code, code of conduct, behavioral standards, completion of annual mandatory education and completion of annual health assessment.
• Rounds on patients utilizing Studer principles
• Contributes to a unit based project utilizing evidenced based practice as the foundation
• Performs other duties as assigned

Education, Training, Licensure and Experience Requirements

completion of a minimum of 200 clinical hours in the WPH Nursing Apprentice Program- a letter of recommendation is required from the Coordinator of the Nursing Apprentice Program

Interpersonal Skills

Ability to act in a professional capacity and serve as a role model. Retains composure under stress. Communicates effectively (written and verbal) in English.

Essential Physical Requirements :

Must be physically able to frequently push / pull / lift heavy objects more than 50 lbs and lift patients of all weights with a minimum of one (1) assist or assistive device; perform difficult manipulative, arm - hand steadiness and hand -eye coordination skills; walk and stand for prolonged periods of time. Must be physically able to meet all regulatory requirements.

Essential Mental Abilities :

Must have the ability to concentrate on fine detail with interruption and attend to tasks for more than 60 minutes at a time. Individual must be able to understand theories behind several related concepts and remember multiple tasks given during the course of a day.

Essential Sensory Requirements :

Sees objects closely and far away and hears normal sounds with some background noises.

Exposure to Hazards :

May be exposed to chemicals necessary to perform Nursing tasks. Any chemicals, substances the employee may be exposed to as noted in the Nursing Department MSDSBook. Tasks may involve exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues. Requires the use of techniques of Universal Precaution Techniques.