DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This position exists in an off-site clinic operated by Lewis County General Hospital and involved responsibility to assist with evaluation/routine sub-professional primary nursing care for patients being treated by a physician in a clinic/office setting. Additionally, incumbents act as unlicensed scribes that enter information into the electronic medical record (EMR) or chart at the direction of a physician or licensed independent practitioner. The work requires understanding of and skill in routine practical nursing practices, but does not require the exercise of professional judgment called for in the position of Registered Professional Nurse. Supervision may be exercised over the work of office staff. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
- Provides routine primary sub-professional nursing care and evaluation/treatment to patients of the clinic physician;
- Keeps routine medical records and files reports on each patient in accordance with policies and procedures of LCGH;
- Assists the provider in navigating the electronic medical record (EMR);
- Responds to various messages as directed by the provider;
- Locates information for review (i.e., previous notes, reports, test and laboratory results);
- Enters information into the electronic medical record (EMR) as directed by the provider;
- Researches information requested by the provider;
- Schedules coverage for professional and non-professional clinic staff;
- Contacts hospital for admissions, treatments, and routine tests requested by the physician;
- Takes blood pressure and temperature, notes the rate of pulse and respiration and observes and records other signs and symptoms as noted by the patient;
- Collects specimens and assists in carrying out diagnostic procedures under direct supervision of a physician;
- Reassures patients, explains facility policies and procedures, and answers questions or directs patient to ask the physician;
- Carries out uncomplicated therapeutic treatments such as giving medication and gives injections upon specific instructions of the clinic physician after passing medication course;
- Fosters good relationships with patient’s family members, physicians and fellow employees;
- Equips clinic examining rooms with appropriate supplies and equipment for physician use;
- Orders supplies as necessary;
- Places or returns phone calls regarding treatment or care of patients;
- Transports and lifts patients as needed on and off examining tables as requested by patients;
- Adheres to all policies and procedures outlined in Nursing Policies and Procedures.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHACTERISTICS:
Good knowledge of practical nursing techniques and their relation to medical and surgical practices and a high degree of skill in their application; good knowledge of use and ordering of medical supplies, dietetics, sanitation and personal hygiene; ability to assess, plan and coordinate clinic care for patients; ability to recognize and correctly spell medical terms; ability to keyboard and navigate the electronic medical record; ability to explain and interpret findings and treatments to patients and families; ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; ability to secure the cooperation of others.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Possession of a current valid New York State license to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse and one year of practical nursing experience.