Registered Nurse - Triage

Job Description

SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Nurse Supervisor, the Registered Nurse - Triage provides indirect professional nursing care to a patient population from 0 to over 100 years of age in accordance with established Corporate and departmental policies and procedures, and state and federal laws, to ensure safe, efficient, and effective patient care.  Functions as primary liaison between patients, staff, and physicians.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

*Include the following. Other duties may be assigned.*

  • Triages, prioritizes, responds, and refers incoming patient phone calls.
  • Instructs patient and family regarding medications and treatment instructions.
  • Correctly manages physician referrals and appointment scheduling.
  • Correctly manages physician-to-physician consultation and referrals.
  • Manages health information inquiries. Offers options and alternatives within limits of nursing knowledge, approved health information resources, departmental and physician specific guidelines, established criteria and policies and procedures.
  • Responsible for accurate documentation and maintaining complete records.
  • Ensures charting reflects the conversation and instructions given to the caller and also reflects patients’ and/or families level of understanding and compliance with instructions.
  • Ensures that patient/caregiver is directed in accordance with physicians’ instructions.
  • Demonstrates professionalism and promotes a harmonious working environment by communicating clearly and working cooperatively with team members and all internal and external customers.
  • Demonstrates concern for cost effective operations by working productively to reduce waste and inefficiencies.
  • Accepts personal responsibility for updating and increasing professional skills and knowledge.
  • Assists in evaluating and formulating the policies, procedures, decisions, and solutions related to Triage services.
  • Participates in Corporate safety procedures and programs.
  • Demonstrates proper use and care of ancillary equipment including phones, computers, printers, fax machines, copiers, etc.
  • Ensures compliance program is adhered to.
  • Performs clinic duties as needed.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat injuries, diseases, and deformities, including treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive healthcare measures. Demonstrate a high level of clinical skills and triage ability.  Knowledge of the principles and practices of patient triage and nurse intervention skills. Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with faculty members, students, residents, staff, patients and other third parties. Ability to operate computer, keyboard, and printer.  Ability to concentrate on the situation at hand and listen effectively.  Ability to organize tasks, work as a team member and independently uses sound nursing skills with a variety of professional disciplines. Convey a professional and positive image and attitude.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

Associate’s and/or bachelor’s degree from a school of nursing and current license as a Registered Nurse in the State of Tennessee required.  Two years’ experience working as a registered nurse with at least one year in triage.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EOE/AA/M/F/Disability/Vet

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