Assistant Head Nurse

				Overview:

A Registered Nurse assists and supports the Nurse Manager in the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of the nursing care delivered on a specific patient care unit. In the Nurse Manager's absence, assumes the leadership role in the supervision of nursing staff (RN/LPN/NA/WC) in the provision of patient care. 

Responsibilities:

* Performs Charge Nurse responsibilities for an assigned shift.
* Monitors staff compliance to standards of care, policies and procedures, etc.
* Assists in the coordination of unit-based Q.A. & I activities. Collects data and provides analysis and evaluation to the Nurse Manager and shares performance improvement results with staff.
* Assumes responsibilities on her respective shift at directed by the Nurse Manager.
* Directs staff in manner that provides optimum care to the patients.
* Provides guidance, assistance and direction to nursing staff in assessing patient needs, planning patient goals, developing, evaluating and modifying Nursing Care Plans.
* Maintains open channel of communication between all shifts to share pertinent information regarding patient's continuity and quality of patient care.
* Participates in the evaluation of the quality of care and makes appropriate recommendations.
* Assigns appropriate professional and ancillary nursing staff based on Nursing Policy & Procedure (see Nursing Administrative Manual):
* Complexity of the patient's condition and required nursing care.
* Dynamics of the patient's status including frequency of change and/or patient care
* The staff's competency to effectively complete the required patient assessment and nursing intervention.
* Type of technology employed in providing nursing care (knowledge & skill).
* Degree and availability of supervision required by each nursing staff member.
* Relevant infection control guidelines and patient safety 

* Actively participate in the weekly interdisciplinary meetings to improve quality patient care/needs.
* Ensures the maintenance of all unit operations including:
* Routine shift check of crash cart, 02, suction machine, defibrillator, medication cabinet and refrigerator (expired coeds and temperature), pantry refrigerator and narcotic count.
* Timely completion of patient admission and discharge 
* Safety check of all clinical equipment.
* Adequate supply of medical/surgical and stationery supplies.

* Confers regularly with the Nurse Manager to seek guidance and direction regarding patient care and personnel.
* Participates in unit orientation of new staff members.
* Administers direct nursing care to an assigned patient load.
* Maintains a clean and safe patient care environment.
* Actively participates in and demonstrates knowledge of unit quality assurance and improvement.
* Performs other professional and related duties as required.
* Serves as a member of the interdisciplinary team to review /implement discharge planning needs of all patients/families.
* Serves as a resource person for nursing staff regarding the assessment, planning, intervention and evaluation of patient outcomes to treatment and education.
* Collaborates with members of the health care team, assesses and evaluates the patients' response to treatment and readiness for discharge.

Qualifications:

Education:

* Bachelor's Degree in Nursing.
* Attends a minimum of 2 continuing education seminars/year.

Experience:

* Minimum 2-3 years experience in clinical specialty.

Knowledge and Skills:

* Demonstrates strong leadership abilities.

Licenses, Certifications:

* Current NY State RN License required.
* Basic Life Support (BLS) required.
* Additional certifications may be required based on specialty.

Physical Requirements:

* Involves standing, walking, sitting, talking, hearing and bending. 
* May include some repetitive motions. 
* Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising patient care.
			

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The Brookdale Hospital Medical Center