New Graduate Registered Nurse, RN

About the Role

This position is for graduates of an accredited school of Nursing, working towards obtaining their nursing license. The specific job title will be determined based on the state of employment. Functions as part of the hemodialysis health care team, providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse. Employees are required to obtain their nursing license within 90 days of their hire date.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Care:
• Perform vascular access evaluation pre-treatment.
• Perform and record pre and post dialysis evaluation, weight, and vital signs with initial identification.
• Perform vascular access cannulation and report any difficulties or unusual findings to the nurse supervisor.
• Initiate dialysis treatment according to prescribed orders, including blood flow (QB) and dialysate flow (QD).
• Evaluate intradialytic problems and provide intervention as prescribed by physician order or as directed.
• Monitor patients’ response to dialysis therapy.
• Obtain vital signs prior to reinfusion; perform all relevant functions necessary for the discontinuation of treatment and document appropriately.
• Evaluate the patient prior to termination of venous access – standing & sitting blood pressure.
• Obtain hemostasis and apply appropriate dressings.
• Evaluate the patient prior to discharge.
• Document information related to patient treatment, including documentation in the patient health record.
• Report any significant information and/or change in patient condition directly to the nurse supervisor.
• Perform and document interventions for unusual patient status and document patients' response to intervention.
• Obtain all prescribed laboratory testing and prepare specimens for collection.
• Maintenance / Technical:
• Conduct all tasks necessary for preparation for dialysis treatment and document where appropriate.
• Maintain environmental integrity and aesthetics – ensure all areas are safe and clean.
• Clean and disinfect dialysis machine surface, chair, equipment, and surrounding area between treatments according to facility policy.
• Perform all required pre-treatment dialysis machine setup and testing.
• Ensure that all blood spills are immediately cleaned with appropriate disinfectant according to facility policy.
• Prepare, organize, and efficiently utilize supplies and equipment to prevent waste.
• Clerical & Administrative:
• Enter all treatment data into the designated clinical application accurately and in a timely manner.
• Review health care record for completeness and ensure omitted entries are completed or corrected where appropriate.
• Prepare lab requisitions for prescribed or stat lab specimens according to laboratory destination.
• Collect, label, appropriately prepare, and store lab samples according to required laboratory specifications.
• Ensure collection of lab specimens by appropriate lab courier.
• Other:
• Obtain and maintain any required credentials or certifications necessary for your position in an active and valid status (including renewal of such credentials or certifications prior to any expiration date).
• Notify your supervisor immediately if your credential or certified status changes.
• Capable of working in a challenging environment which requires the ability to handle demanding situations, multitasking, and remaining flexible to changing needs.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Employees are required to take the Ishihara's Color Blindness test as a condition of employment. Failing the Ishihara Test for Color Blindness does not preclude employment.
• Work includes using a desk and personal computer, and interaction with patients, facility staff, and physicians.
• The position may require travel between assigned facilities and various locations within the community. Travel to regional, Business Unit, and Corporate meetings may be required.
• The work environment is characteristic of a health care facility with air temperature control and moderate noise levels. May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases/materials.
• The position provides direct patient care that regularly involves heavy lifting and moving of patients, and assisting with ambulation. Equipment aids and/or coworkers may provide assistance.
• This position requires frequent, prolonged periods of standing and the employee must be able to bend over.
• The employee may occasionally be required to push and/or pull equipment, exerting up to 15 pounds of force.
• The employee may be required to lift and to lower solutions on a frequent basis of up to 30 lbs., and on an occasional lift basis up to 40 lbs., as high as 5 feet.
• A two-person assist program and "material assist” devices are available for heavier items.

Education and Required Credentials

• Graduated from an accredited nursing program within the past 12 months.

Experience and Skills

• Previous patient care experience in a hospital setting or a related facility is preferred.
• Required to obtain nursing license within 90 days of employment.