JOB SUMMARY:

In accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values, and strategic directions of Provincial Health Services Authority patient safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA, and as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position. The General Duty Nurse provides and coordinates nursing care services such as patient assessment, patient and family teaching, and health promotion activities for patients and their families, consistent with established policies, standards, and philosophy of BC Children’s Hospital (BCCH).

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Training and Experience

• Graduation from an approved School of Nursing with current practicing registration as an RN with the British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals (BCCNP).
• One year recent related experience in the designated clinical area and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to relate effectively to children and their families and others.
• Ability to function as an active member of multidisciplinary care team.
• Ability to demonstrate effective CPR techniques.
• Ability to organize work
• Physical ability to perform the duties of the job.
• Ability to operate related equipment including applicable computer software.

1. Provides direct patient care by implementing the care plan, and collaborates with other members of the health care team to evaluate family-centered patient care in the particular setting.
2. Plans direct care for the patient by performing activities such as reviewing patient/family history, developing a care plan specific for the patient and family, and meeting with other members of the health care team to discuss and review the care plan.
3. Maintains patient records by collecting and documenting information including health care information regarding patients and their families, nursing observations, telephone communications, interventions, teaching, and care evaluations to ensure that patient records are current and complete.
4. Teaches patients, family members, or other care-givers by providing and explaining information, demonstrating procedures and use of equipment, checking the learners’ use of procedures, techniques and equipment, and evaluating the overall effectiveness of the selected teaching methods.
5. Participates in the orientation and continuing education of nursing staff and students by preceptoring and mentoring.
6. Identifies own learning needs, reviews these with the Program Manager or designate, and engages in learning activities to meet these needs such as attending in-services.
7. Acts as a clinical resource/support person to patients and families; and nursing and health care professionals by explaining the theoretical rationale for nursing decisions.
8. Participates as a member of the health care team through contributing information in patient and family care conferences, rounds and staff meetings.
9. Provides input to the Program Manager or designate, regarding policies, procedures, and operational requirements by observing service needs and providing spoken or written suggestions which address patient and family needs and promote effective use of resources.
10. Maintains a safe environment for patients, families, and staff by following established emergency procedures and safety practices and procedures.
11. Promotes the implementation and evaluation of research and quality improvement activities including knowledge generation, translation and dissemination as directed by participating in committees, and by keeping current through attendance at educational and inservice opportunities.
12. Performs other professionally related duties as assigned.