NURSING ASSISTANT - South Shore Health

Job Description Summary

The Nursing Assistant assists in patient care throughout nursing areas, and is responsible for the safe transport of patients via wheelchair or stretcher, dispatch services, and appropriate documentation of services rendered. Functions as an Observer for any patient on a patient care unit who has been assessed to require constant observation in order to maximize his/her safety. Performs general receptionist and clerical duties in order to facilitate efficient functioning of the nursing unit. ; Needs to understand the patients condition to ensure their care and safety.

Job Description

1. Patient Care - Demonstrates the skills and judgment necessary to provide direct/non-direct care to patients under the direct supervision of licensed personnel.

a. Observes, obtains and reports patient data/status to assigned RN.
b. Responds to peeks in acuity and emergent situations as directed by nursing staff.

2. Professional Development - Maintains current knowledge/certification.

a. Maintains BLS certification.
b. Functions as a preceptor to new employees.
c. Displays the ability to accept and respond appropriately to feedback and recommendations for change.
d. Demonstrates professional working relationships with colleagues from all disciplines to promote a positive/encouraging workplace.
e. Accountable for being informed about changes in hospital policy and procedure.

3. Safety/Quality - Fosters a “Culture of Safety” through personal ownership and commitment to a safe environment.

a. Verifies patient identification with 2 identifiers prior to the start of any procedure.
b. Understands individual role/responsibilities in the event of hospital codes and emergency preparedness.
c. Complies with the current CDC hand hygiene guidelines through proper handwashing. Adheres to universal precautions, makes appropriate use of personal protective equipment at all times and appropriately disposes of hazardous materials. Maintains awareness of MSDS sheets and how to access.
d. Demonstrates awareness of each patient’s fall risk and the appropriate use of safety devices and identified safety interventions.
e. Conducts patient safety rounds utilizing principles of SBAR, follows chain of command to communicate any identified patient or staff safety risks.
f. Demonstrates proper body mechanics for all functions and use of patient lifts as needed.

4. Technology
a. Utilizes software applications required by department and unit standards.
b. Accountable to understand how to operate in downtime.

5. Compliance

a. Works within legal, regulatory and ethical practice standards relevant to the position
b. Complies with applicable policies and procedures.
c. Safeguards the privacy and security of patient information. The employee complies with policies and procedures relating to SSH’s privacy and security programs.
d. Brings potential compliance issues to a manager, supervisor, director or VP.
e. Complies with the mandatory education requirements of the compliance, privacy and security programs.

6. Patient and Family Center Care

a. Conveys respect for values, preferences, and expressed needs of the patient and family.
b. Recognizes the patient, and family according to patient preferences, as important members of the health care team.
c. Collaborates with the patient, and family according to patient preferences, in planning, implementing, and evaluating care
d. Welcomes the presence and participation of family members at all times according to patient preferences, regardless of rounds, change of shift, or other events on unit.

7. Age & Culture

a. Considers the individual needs of each person with whom they interact.
b. Possesses age and cultural knowledge and awareness.
c. Interacts with sensitivity in the delivery of care/services of diverse populations as needed.
d. Effectively utilizes resources to provide care/services - such as, interpreter services and on-line sources.

JOB REQUIREMENTS
Minimum Education - Preferred
High School Diploma/GED preferred.
Minimum Work Experience
Previous Nursing Assistant or equivalent experience preferred.
Required Classes/Skills -

BLS - Basic Life Support.

Required additional Knowledge and Abilities

Basic medical terminology

Basic computer skills

Ability to communicate effectively and document information accurately

Ability to deal efficiently and effectively with a wide variety of individuals