Summary:

This position is specifically designed to give nursing students concentrated exposure to acute patient care settings and provides an opportunity to shadow registered nurses and ancillary services in an acute care setting. Limited technical nursing care and clerical support services for assigned patients under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. This position may require flexibility of hours. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Under the supervision of a RN preceptor, the student will shadow and:
   1. Be involved in caring for patients holistically
   2. Become more confident in decision-making
   3. Learn time management
   4. Become an effective communicator
   5. Improve critical thinking skills
   6. Learn more about the everyday expectations of the professional nurse
   7. Assesses the patient under the direction of a registered nurse.
   8. Provides patient care and assistance to nursing staff as directed.
2. Provides basic care as directed to include bathing, feeding, assistance with feedings, assistance with activities and hygiene.

1. Demonstrates proficiency in managing resources, following policies and procedures, utilizing equipment in a safe manner. Actively contributes to cost controls by managing time, resources and supplies effectively.
2. Documentation in the Patient Record will be legible at all times. Maintains accurate documentation as appropriate including graphic and I&O sheets.
3. Maintains positive and caring interpersonal relationships with patient, families, and fellow employees.

1. Answers call lights and responds to patient requests promptly. Demonstrates competence in taking vital signs, measuring I&O, etc.
2. Ensures that utility room, kitchen, pantries, supply rooms and nurses lounge are maintained in a neat and orderly fashion.
3. Attendance at CPR Class and orientation are mandatory. Attends 75%, a minimum of six, unit staff meetings, and in-services.
4. Participates in QC/QI issues as required. 
5. Keeps RN and LVN informed of changes in patients’ conditions or patients’ requests.
6. Completes assignments given by team leader, cleaning, checking department equipment, etc.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Able to adapt to change in workload. Able to perform in a precise and accurate manner in handling priority tasks.
2. Care for the geriatric patient with knowledge and clinical skills of the aging process.
3. Care for the pediatric patient with knowledge and skills of the growth and development process.
4. 4.Acts as patient advocate for patient rights by initiating and maintaining confidentiality, privacy, and safety for the patient.
5. Accepts constructive criticism and incorporates suggestions into practice.
6. Supports and promotes safety standards, identifies risk situations, and intervenes appropriately.
7. Knowledge and ability to apply ethical and legal principles to practice.
8. Current knowledge of Standard Precautions in dealing with potential exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens.
9. Organizes work and completes assignments in a timely manner.
10. Functions within limits of state Nurse Practice Act, hospital and nursing department policies and procedures.
11. Other duties as assigned from time to time.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None

EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND EXPERIENCE:

1. Current enrollment in an accredited AA, BSN or MSN registered nursing program and successful completion of at least two semesters of clinical nursing courses 
2. Verification of current enrollment in an accredited registered nursing program such as a college or university registration form, or a statement from the college or university
3. Provide an unofficial copy of college or university transcripts
4. Diploma or transcripts on highest degree earned required
5. Provide at least one reference from a clinical instructor

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS:

1. Current American Heart Association BLS Provider required.

AGE OF POPULATION SERVED:

Newborn  Infant/Pediatric  Adolescent  Adult  Geriatric  All  No Patient Care X