Northwest Health - Porter

Dialysis Registered Nurse (RN) Days Position in the Dialysis Department at Northwest Health Porter and La Porte Hospital

• Flexible morning start time
• Travel between Northwest Health facilities - eligible for mileage reimbursement
• On-call rotation required

Job Summary

The Registered Nurse (RN) provides patient-centered care through the nursing process of assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. This role is responsible for coordinating and delivering high-quality care based on established clinical protocols and physician/provider orders. The RN collaborates with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient care and desired outcomes, while maintaining a supportive and compassionate environment for patients and their families.

General Responsibilities:

• Reviews physician orders for dialysis patients, collects pre-treatment dialysis data, and reviews
  patient records prior to dialysis. Conducts pre-dialysis patient assessment including obtaining
  patient vital signs and assessing the patient's vascular access, laboratory findings, and the
  patient's general health. Safely gives routine meds based on physician orders. Verifies that
  patients are taking all prescribed medications and performs medication reconciliation.
• Documents findings of patient assessments and interventions and advises providers of any
  significant change in the patient's condition and other pertinent information. Discusses patient
  concerns and answers questions relevant to care. Accurately obtains blood work according to
  protocol.
• Maintains skills necessary to perform surveillance on dialysis access (catheter, fistula, graft) for
  early signs of failure or infection; this includes (if needed and after receiving the appropriate
  training) the ability to perform arteriovenous access monitoring using ultrasound machine per
  protocol.
• Performs routine dialysis activities including blood transfusion, IV med and oxygen
  administration.
• Independently initiates dialysis from start to finish, monitors patient reaction to treatment and
  performance of the dialysis machines, and demonstrates an in-depth understanding of the
  mechanics of dialysis.
• Participates in quality improvement activities to include collection of data for the dialysis unit
  Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) plan. Provides leadership in improving
  patient care, maintaining standards of care, directing and teaching personnel in a variety of
  settings, and providing charge nurse responsibilities as needed.
• Works closely with others on the dialysis team and participates in interdisciplinary team
  meetings.
• Completes documentation regarding daily treatment sheets and progress notes. Completes
  incident reports for unusual occurrences.
• Demonstrates an in-depth understanding of infection control and prevention of transmission of
  blood borne pathogens.
  
  Essential Functions
• Coordinates and delivers high-quality, patient-centered care in accordance with organizational policies, protocols, and the nursing process.
• Conducts thorough patient assessments and documents findings accurately, reporting changes in condition to the appropriate care team members.
• Utilizes knowledge of human growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and education.
• Administers prescribed medications, monitors for side effects, and documents administration in accordance with standards of practice.
• Assists physicians during procedures within the scope of documented competency and skill level.
• Collaborates with the healthcare team to develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans based on patient assessments and needs.
• Responds to medical emergencies and participates in life-saving interventions, such as CPR and code team activities, as appropriate.
• Advocates for the rights and needs of patients, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in care planning and delivery.
• Provides patient and family education on medical conditions, treatment plans, and post-discharge care, ensuring understanding and adherence to instructions.
• Implements and adheres to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.
• Monitors and operates medical equipment (e.g., IV pumps, monitors, ventilators) as needed for patient care and safety.
• Promotes patient safety by adhering to National Patient Safety Goals and maintaining a clean, safe environment for patients and staff.
• Participates in audits, chart reviews, and compliance checks to ensure adherence to standards of practice and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrates responsible decision-making in planning, delegating, and providing care based on patient needs and organizational policies.
• Documents patient care and education thoroughly and promptly in the medical record.
• Engages in professional development to maintain clinical competency and understanding of current nursing standards and regulations.
• Participates in performance improvement initiatives, including data collection and process development, to enhance patient outcomes and care delivery.

Dialysis RN:

• Sets up and operates dialysis machines, monitors patients before, during, and after treatment, and adjusts treatment parameters as needed.
• Takes vital signs, monitors signs of complications, and responds to changes in patient condition.
• Educates patients and families about kidney disease, dialysis procedures, and the importance of adhering to treatment plans, diet, and medication.
• Inspects and maintains dialysis machines and equipment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years of experience in a clinical nursing role or student clinical rotations in an acute care setting required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of the nursing process and clinical nursing practices.
• Ability to perform thorough patient assessments and communicate findings effectively.
• Proficient in administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documenting patient care.
• Knowledge of safety standards, infection control, and quality improvement initiatives.

Licenses and Certifications

• RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required
• BCLS - Basic Life Support required
• ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred
• PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support preferred
• NRP - Neonatal Resuscitation preferred
• Refer to facility or unit-specific guidelines for additional requirements.