GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under general supervision of Nurse Manager and in accordance with established policies, procedures, protocols and nursing standards, provides and manages professional nursing care.  Exercises independent judgment through use of the nursing process by assessing, planning, implementing, interpreting and evaluating patient care.  Works closely with and may lead other professional and ancillary nursing personnel providing total nursing care to assigned patients.  While actual duties and responsibilities vary depending on assigned area, the following are characteristics of the work being performed by the Staff Nurse.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Current licensure to practice as a registered nurse in the State of Michigan.

Completion of the Medical Center orientation program in order to a)acquire a working knowledge of the medical center's nursing philosophy and models of care b) develop and demonstrate skill in nursing techniques and ability to adapt techniques to individual needs, and c) become familiar with Medical Center policies, procedures and standards.

CPR Certification.

Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification within first six months of hire.

Analytical ability as well as visual, hearing and sensory touch acuity necessary to assess patients' condition, developmental needs, and utilize the nursing process and professional judgment in providing comprehensive care to patients of all age populations (i.e., peds, geriatric, adolescent, and adult).

Interpersonal skills necessary to a) almost constantly interact with patients, frequently during periods of emotional stress or anxiety, b) interact with medical center personnel and physicians c) educate patients and family members.

Emotional/mental ability to perform effectively and efficiently under the daily pressure of stressful or emergency situations.

Ability to demonstrate ongoing proficiency in critical care nursing.