Nursing Job Descriptions

JOB DESCRIPTIONS

•	Registered Nurse
•	Licensed Practical Nurse
•	Certified Nursing Assistant
•	Physical Therapist Assistant/Physical Therapy Technician
•	Respiratory Therapist
•	Occoupational Therapy Assistant
•	Surgical Technician
•	Radiology Technician

POSITION TITLE:
Registered Nurse

REPORTS TO:
Facility Management/Office Management

JOB SUMMARY: Directs and coordinates members of the patient care team, focusing on the provision of individualized quality patient care consistent with the medical facility assigned to and Washington State standards. Develops the patient care plan in partnership with the physicians, other patient care team members, and patient/family.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1.	Manages and coordinates the care of patients utilizing the nursing process which includes assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation.
2.	Supervises and/or provides all nursing care provided to an assigned patient population. Any delegated care is based on the abilities and limitations of care personnel and patient acuity.
3.	Collaborates and communicates effectively with the medical care/nursing team.
4.	Accountable for the patient/family education in collaboration with the medical care/nursing team and patient/family.
5.	Documents nursing care and patient status in accordance with the nursing process and standards of care.
6.	Provides a safe environment and promotes quality patient care through adherence to established standards at the facility.
7.	Identifies opportunities for and participates in performance improvement activities as is available to agency/nursing pool employees.
8.	Demonstrates competent professional practice, and engages in opportunities for professional growth.
9.	Contributes to the productivity and professional environment of the department for the facility they are assigned to.
10.	Uses Standard Precautions including personal protective equipment for anticipated contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials.
11.	Demonstrates competency in adjusting care techniques to accommodate the needs appropriate to the age specific need of the patient.
12.	Performs similar and incidental duties appropriate to licensure at all facilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION
Must be a graduate of an accredited school of nursing.

LICENSURE / CERTIFICATION:
Current BLS certification required. Current licensure as a RN in Washington State.

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
Must understand the patient care process, pathophysiology, be familiar with emergency procedures, pharmacology, safety issues, demonstrate skills in reading, writing, be able to communicate effectively. Must have strong organizational skills and ability to problem solve. Must have ability to work collaboratively with physician, nursing team and patient.

WORK EXPERIENCE:
One year experience within an acute care setting.

PHYSICAL / MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
When physical requirements are not essential job functions, reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities. Required to stand and walk continuously. Work is of heavy demand with lifting up to 100 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects up to 25-50 pounds. Activities required include frequent stooping, bending, pushing, pulling and reaching and occasional kneeling, crawling and squatting. Ability to see, hear and speak continuously at a level to meet all essential functions of the job. Work is of high attention and mental demands including the ability to prioritize and process with accuracy.

WORKING AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
In the course of performing job duties, the worker is reasonably anticipated to have occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, i.e. skin, eye, mucous membrane or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious material. Working schedules include day, evening, night and weekend shifts. May also be required to be on-call, work overtime or shift reduced or cut. Must be prepared to handle physically stressful situations, including acute/medical situations and infectious or hazardous materials.

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POSITION TITLE:
Licensed Practical Nurse

JOB SUMMARY: The licensed practical nurse recognizes and is able to meet the basic needs of the patient and gives nursing care under the direction and supervision of the registered nurse. Contributes towards the planning, deliver, and evaluation of patient care.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1.	Provides care to patients in a defined care delivery model and assists in implementing the nursing process, which includes delegated elements of assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation.
2.	Provides nursing care to an assigned patient population. Observes the condition of patient and reports significant changes to appropriate persons.
3.	Uses communication skills effectively in order to function as a member of the interdisciplinary team.
4.	Participates in patient teaching according to the patient’s plan of care.
5.	Documents nursing care and patient status in accordance with the nursing process and standards of care.
6.	Assists in providing a safe environment and promotes quality patient care through adherence to established standards.
7.	Identifies and participates in performance improvement activities.
8.	Demonstrates competent practice, and engages in opportunities for clinical growth.
9.	Contributes to an effective and efficient practice environment.
10.	Uses Standard Precautions including personal protective equipment for anticipated contact with blood or other potentially infection materials.
11.	Demonstrates competency in adjusting interactions and the delivery of care and/or clinical techniques appropriate to address the age specific needs of the patient and/or customer.
12.	Performs similar and incidental duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION:
Recognized equivalent military training. Graduate of an accredited LPN school.

LICENSURE / CERTIFICATION:
Current BLS certification required. Current licensure as a LPN in Washington State.

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
Must understand the patient care process, pathophysiology, be familiar with emergency procedures, pharmacology, safety issues. Must be able to follow established protocols, inform appropriate persons and document events. Must demonstrate skills in reading, writing and be able to communicate effectively through appropriate lines of authority

WORK EXPERIENCE:
One year experience within an acute care setting.

PHYSICAL / MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
When physical requirements are not essential job functions, reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.Required to stand and walk continuously. Work is of heavy demand with lifting up to 100 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects up to 25-50 pounds. Activities required include frequent stooping, bending, pushing, pulling and reaching and occasional kneeling, crawling and squatting. Ability to see, hear and speak continuously at a level to meet all essential functions of the job.
Work is of high attention and mental demands including the ability to prioritize and process with accuracy.

WORKING AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
In the course of performing job duties, the worker is reasonably anticipated to have occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, i.e. skin, eye, mucous membrane or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious material.Working schedules include day, evening, night and weekend shifts. May also be required to be on-call, work overtime or shift reduced or cut.Must be prepared to handle physically stressful situations, including acute/medical situations and infectious or hazardous materials.

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POSITION TITLE:
Nursing Assistant Certified

JOB SUMMARY: The C.N.A. assist the nursing team with patient care as directed by the team leader/charge nurse.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1.	Provides care to patients as directed by the team leader/charge nurse.
2.	Provides nursing care to an assigned patient population. Observes the condition of patient and reports significant changes to appropriate persons.
3.	Uses communication skills effectively in order to function as a member of the interdisciplinary team.
4.	Participates in patient teaching according to the patient’s plan of care.
5.	Documents nursing care and patient status in accordance with the nursing process and standards of care.
6.	Assists in providing a safe environment and promotes quality patient care through adherence to established standards.
7.	Identifies and participates in performance improvement activities.
8.	Demonstrates competent practice, and engages in opportunities for clinical growth.
9.	Contributes to an effective and efficient practice environment.
10.	Uses Standard Precautions including personal protective equipment for anticipated contact with blood or other potentially infection materials.
11.	Demonstrates competency in adjusting interactions and the delivery of care and/or clinical techniques appropriate to address the age specific needs of the patient and/or customer.
12.	Performs similar and incidental duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION:
Completion of a Certified Nursing Assistant program.

LICENSURE / CERTIFICATION:
Current BLS certification required. Current licensure as a C.N.A. in Washington State.

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
Must understand the patient care process, be familiar with emergency procedures and safety issues. Must be able to follow established protocols, inform appropriate persons and document events. Must demonstrate skills in reading, writing and be able to communicate effectively through appropriate lines of authority

WORK EXPERIENCE:
One year experience within acute care setting.

PHYSICAL / MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
When physical requirements are not essential job functions, reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.Required to stand and walk continuously. Work is of heavy demand with lifting up to 100 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects up to 25-50 pounds. Activities required include frequent stooping, bending, pushing, pulling and reaching and occasional kneeling, crawling and squatting. Ability to see, hear and speak continuously at a level to meet all essential functions of the job. Work is of high attention and mental demands including the ability to prioritize and process with accuracy.

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POSITION TITLE:
Physical Therapist Assistant/Physical Therapy Technician

JOB SUMMARY: Administers physical therapy treatments to patients, working under direction of and as assistant to Physical Therapist.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1.	Administers active and passive manual therapeutic exercises, therapeutic massage, and heat, light, sound, water and electrical modality treatments, such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, ultraviolet, infrared, and hot and cold packs.
2.	Administers traction to relieve neck and back pain, using intermittent and static traction equipment.
3.	Instructs, motivates, and assists patients to learn and improve functional activities, such as perambulation, transfer, ambulation, and daily-living activities.
4.	Observes patients during treatments and compiles and evaluates data on patients' responses to treatments and progress and reports orally or in writing to the Physical Therapist.
5.	Fits patients for, adjusts, and trains patients in use and care of orthopedic braces, prostheses, and supportive devices, such as crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs.
6.	Confers with members of physical therapy staff and other health team members, individual and in conference, to exchange, discuss, and evaluate patient information for planning.
7.	Gives orientation to new Physical Therapy Aides and directs and gives instructions to Physical Therapy Aides.
8.	Performs clerical duties, such as taking inventory, ordering supplies, answering telephones, taking messages, and filling out forms.
9.	May measure patient's range-of-motion, length and girth of body parts, and vital signs to determine effects of specific treatments or to assist Physical Therapist to compile data for patient evaluations.
10.	May monitor treatments administered by Physical Therapy Aides.
11.	Contributes to an effective and efficient practice environment.
12.	Performs similar and incidental duties as assigned.

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POSITION TITLE:
Respiratory Therapist

JOB SUMMARY: Administers respiratory therapy care and life support to patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of cardiopulmonary system, under the supervision of physician and by prescription.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1.	Reads, understands and transcribes prescriptions for treatment written by a physician. Measures arterial blood gases.
2.	Measures arterial blood gases.
3.	Reviews patient information to assess patient condition and determine requirements for treatment, such as type and duration of therapy, and medication and dosages.
4.	Determines most suitable method of administering inhalants, precautions to be observed, and modifications which may be needed that will be compatible with physician's orders.
5.	Sets up and operates devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, and aerosol generators.
6.	Operates equipment to ensure specified parameters of treatment, such as volume, gas concentration, humidity, and temperature, and to administer medicinal gases and aerosol drugs to patients.
7.	Monitors patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, and blood chemistry changes.
8.	Performs bronchopulmonary drainage and assist patient in performing breathing exercises.
9.	Performs pulmonary function test to be used by physician in diagnosis of case.
10.	Observes equipment function and adjusts equipment to obtain optimum results to therapy.
11.	Consults with physician in event of adverse reactions.
12.	Performs similar and incidental duties as assigned.

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POSITION TITLE:
Occupational Therapy Assistant

JOB SUMMARY: The Occupational Therapy Assistant assist the Occupational Therapist in administering occupational therapy program in hospitals, related facilities, or community setting for physically, developmentally, mentally retarded, or emotionally handicapped clients.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1.	Assists in evaluation of client's daily living skills and capacities to determine extent of abilities and limitations.
2.	Assists in planning and implementing educational, vocational and recreational programs and activities established by registered Occupational Therapist, designed to restore, reinforce and enhance task performances, diminish or correct pathology, and to promote and maintain health and self-sufficiency.
3.	Designs and adapts equipment and working-living environments.
4.	Fabricates splints and other assistant devices.
5.	Reports information and observations to supervisor.
6.	Prepares work materials, assists in maintenance of equipment, and orders supplies.
7.	May be responsible for maintaining observed information in client records and preparing reports.
8.	May assist Educational Specialist or Clinical Psychologist in administering situational or diagnostic test to measure client's abilities or progress.
9.	Demonstrates competent practice, and engages in opportunities for clinical growth.
10.	May teach basic living skills to institutionalized, mentally retarded adults.
11.	Contributes to an effective and efficient practice environment.
12.	Performs similar and incidental duties as assigned.

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POSITION TITLE:
Surgical Technician

JOB SUMMARY: Performs any combination of following tasks before, during and after surgery to assist surgical team.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1.	Places equipment and supplies in operating room and arranges instruments, according to instructions. Hands instrument and supplies to surgeon, holds retractors, cuts sutures, and performs other tasks as directed by surgeon during operation.
2.	Assist team members to place and position patient on table.
3.	Scrubs arms and hands and dons gown and gloves. Aids team to don gowns and gloves.
4.	Maintains supply of fluids, such as plasma, saline, blood, and glucose for use during operation.
5.	Puts dressings on patient following surgery.
6.	Counts sponges, needles, and instruments before and after operation. Washes and sterilizes equipment, using germicides and sterilizers. Cleans operating room. Other duties as assigned.

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POSITION TITLE:
Radiology Technician

JOB SUMMARY: Operates radiology equipment to produce radiographs of body for diagnostic purposes, as directed by a Radiologist.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1.	Positions patient on examining table and adjusts immobilization devices to obtain optimum views of specified areas of body as requested by a physician.
2.	Explains procedures to patient to reduce anxieties and obtain patient cooperation.
3.	Moves x-ray equipment into specified position and adjusts equipment controls to set exposure factors, such as time and distance, based on knowledge of radiographic exposure techniques and protocols.
4.	Practices radiation protection techniques, using beam restrictive devices, patient shielding skills, and knowledge of applicable exposure factors, to minimize radiation to patient and staff.
5.	May operate mobile x-ray equipment in operating room, emergency room, or at patient's bedside.
6.	May specialize in production of screening and diagnostic x-rays for detection of breast tumors and be known as a Mammogram Tech. Other duties as assigned.

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