RN Emergency Room

BRADLEY COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER

EMERGENCY ROOM REGISTERED NURSE (RN)

JOB DESCRIPTION

Department: Emergency Department

Reports To: Emergency Department Nurse Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY

The Emergency Room Registered Nurse provides direct nursing care to patients of all ages presenting to the Emergency Department. Responsibilities include patient assessment, triage, treatment, monitoring, stabilization, and coordination of care. The RN works closely with medical providers and other hospital personnel to provide safe, timely, and appropriate patient care.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assess patients upon arrival, perform triage, and prioritize care according to the patient’s condition and urgency of treatment.

• Assist with the assessment, treatment, and stabilization of critically ill or injured patients.

• Administer medications, IV fluids, blood products, and other prescribed treatments in accordance with hospital policy.

• Monitor and document patient responses to medications, treatments, and nursing interventions.

• Assist medical providers with procedures, diagnostic testing, emergency treatment, and resuscitation.

• Initiate and follow established emergency protocols, including those for stroke, sepsis, cardiac emergencies, and trauma.

• Perform cardiac monitoring and operate emergency equipment, including defibrillators, infusion pumps, and other equipment used in the department.

• Coordinate patient transfers to other facilities when a higher level of care is needed, including communication with receiving facilities and completion of required documentation.

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of assessments, treatments, reassessments, and patient disposition in the electronic medical record.

• Provide patients and families with education regarding medications, treatment plans, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.

• Communicate changes in patient condition and other pertinent information to providers and appropriate hospital personnel.

• Follow infection control practices, medication safety procedures, and established patient safety standards.

• Report patient safety concerns, unusual occurrences, and equipment problems according to hospital policy.

• Participate in department meetings, staff education, emergency drills, and quality improvement activities.

• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of nursing practice.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduate of an approved Registered Nursing program.

• Current Arkansas RN license or valid multistate RN license recognized in Arkansas.

• One year of emergency or acute care nursing experience preferred.

• Good assessment, critical thinking, organizational, and communication skills.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

• Basic Life Support (BLS) – Required upon hire.

• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – Required upon hire or within six months of employment.

• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) – Required upon hire or within six months of employment.

• Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) – Required within 6 months of employment.

• NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) – Required within 3 months of employment.

All required certifications must be maintained in accordance with hospital policy. Employees must also complete initial and annual department competencies as required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and stooping throughout the work shift.

• Ability to assist with lifting, moving, and repositioning patients using appropriate equipment and assistance.

• Ability to push, pull, and maneuver stretchers, wheelchairs, and other patient care equipment.

• Ability to perform CPR and other physical activities associated with emergency patient care.

• Ability to respond quickly to emergency situations.

• Potential exposure to blood, bodily fluids, infectious diseases, and other hazards associated with patient care.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS

The Emergency Room RN is expected to maintain professional conduct, protect patient confidentiality, follow hospital policies and procedures, and work cooperatively with other staff members. The RN is responsible for maintaining required licensure, certifications, and clinical competencies and performing assigned duties in a safe and professional manner.