Travel RN- Med/Surg Nights OSF Saint Francis

A General Medical-Surgical (Med-Surg) Nurse plays a critical role in the healthcare team, typically working in hospitals or medical centers. This nurse is responsible for providing care to patients who are recovering from surgery or dealing with acu te or chronic medical conditions. The following is a general job description for a Med-Surg nurse:

Job Summary:

A Medical-Surgical Nurse provides direct care to patients in a general medical and surgical setting. These nurses manage a variety of medical conditions, assist with post-operative recovery, and perform assessments, administer medications, and ensure the comfort and well-being of patients.

Key Responsibilities:

Patient Care:

• Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care needs.

• Monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation.

• Provide preoperative and postoperative care to patients, including wound care and administering pain medications.

• Assist patients with activities of daily living such as feeding, bathing, and dressing.

• Provide comfort and emotional support to patients and families.

M edical Administration:

• Administer prescribed medications and treatments, observing for side effects or reactions.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records.

• Collaborate with physicians, surgeons, and other healthcare providers to coordinate patient care plans.

• Prepare patients for surgical procedures and ensure proper recovery after surgery.

Monitoring and Reporting:

• Observe patients’ responses to treatments, changes in symptoms, and complications.

• Report any significant changes in patient conditions to physicians or senior nurses.

• Maintain knowledge of patient charts and documentation according to hospital policy.

Patient Education:

• Educate patients and their families on health conditions, treatment plans, and recovery processes.

• Provide guidance on home care, medication regimens, and lifestyle modifications.

Infection Control and Safety:

• Adhere to strict infection control protocols.

• Monitor patients for signs of infection, particularly after surgery.

• Ensure the safety and comfort of patients during their hospital stay.

Team Collaboration:

• Work as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team, which may include doctors, physical therapists, and other nurses.

• Participate in shift handoffs and communicate effectively with other team members about patient needs and status.

Emergency Response:

• Respond appropriately to medical emergencies, including assisting in life-saving procedures when required .

• Use critical thinking skills to assess and react to changes in patient status.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Education: Registered Nurse (RN) with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

• Licensure: Valid state RN license.

• Certifications: BLS (Basic Life Support) and ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) may be required .

• Experience: Previous experience in a medical-surgical unit is often preferred.

• Skills: Strong clinical assessment skills, ability to work in a fast-paced environment, excellent communication, and interpersonal skills.

Work Environment:

• Work is typically performed in hospital settings such as medical-surgical units, post-operative recovery units, or step-down units.

• Nurses may be required to work nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on the hospital's staffing needs.

• The job may involve standing for extended periods, lifting patients, and other physical demands.

Physical and Emotional Demands:

• Ability to lift and move patients or equipment .

• Strong mental and emotional resilience to manage stress and patient care in difficult situations .

• Ability to stay focused and work under pressure in an ever-changing environment.

This role requires a compassionate, skilled nurse who is dedicated to patient care, working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, and capable of managing a diverse range of medical conditions.