Physician Office Nurse-Float

Location: 820 Chambersburg Road Gettysburg, PA 17325 (Home Base, will be traveling to other locations)

Schedule: Day/Evening

Job Description

Under the general supervision of the Clinical Nursing Coordinator and/or the Practice Manager, provides safe, therapeutic and efficient care and services to patients. Functions as a member of the health care team at an intermediate nursing level to assist in the planning and implementation of patient care based upon sound nursing judgment, clinical preparation, knowledge, skills and experience. Nursing care is provided in accordance with the provisions of the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. Will perform a variety of clerical office duties related to telephone management, receiving patients, and scheduling. Will have the ability to float to Medical Group practices as assigned.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. In collaboration with physician, provides extensive health education, counseling and advice to patients and families on topics such as life style changes, cholesterol lowering diets, diabetic control etc. Effectively assesses patient educational needs, prioritizes patient’s learning needs, identifies barriers to learning, develops teaching plans, and uses various educational tools to activate the non-compliant patient.
2. Tracks, reviews and monitors follow-up of diagnostic test results, under the direction of the provider. Provides related education, counseling, ongoing review and monitoring regarding diagnostic tests (i.e., INR results in Anticoagulation Clinic) in collaboration with the provider. Assists in the management of patient care between visits. (i.e., prenatal care).
3. Following defined protocols independently assesses patients/callers health status based upon presenting symptoms. Determines the urgency for care and directs patient/caller to most appropriate level of care, or an acceptable alternative venue for care of patients with acute problems should access not be readily available at the practice. Seeks provider advice appropriately.Performs the responsibilities of the Physician Office Clinical Assistant as outlined below:
4. Greets and registers patients in accordance with established policies and procedures.
5. Schedules patient appointments within established parameters.
6. Schedules patient appointments for patients with other provider offices including correct processing of necessary referral forms, pre-authorization forms, test instructions, patient benefit verification and transfer of patient information.
7. Maintains patient records to ensure an accurate record of the patient’s medical treatment.
8. Under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse or provider, prepares and administers vaccines, medications and controlled substances/narcotics as prescribed by the provider and as certified competencies permit. Asks prescribed screening questions, identifies risks and contraindications, questions and observes for appropriate responses.
9. Documents and processes prescription requests and refills per provider order.
10. Performs basic office procedures, examinations and/or tests ordered by provider and as certified competent (i.e. EKGs, ear lavage, vision tests etc.).
11. Provides health care information materials and reviews with patient and family members as directed by providers (i.e. VIS sheets etc.).
12. Under the direction of the provider, tracks, reviews and monitors follow-up of diagnostic test results. Relays information to patient from the provider regarding results and follow-up instructions.
13. Obtains basic health information from patient/family members to review with providers or clinical resource person to determine the urgency for care or an alternative venue for care for patients with acute problems, should access not be readily available at the practice. Gives basic care information to patients/family members per provider guidelines and instructions.
14. Obtains and documents reason for visit, patient vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, weight, respirations, pulse and BMI.
15. Assists providers with examinations, procedures and other processes related to direct patient care.
16. Collects specimens as directed by provider. Uses appropriate equipment and protocols for collecting, handling, testing, and preparing for transportation to lab including proper identification, storage procedures and techniques.
17. Assures all patient care areas are adequately stocked with unexpired supplies and medications.
18. Prepares patients for scheduled procedures by assuring patient is appropriately gowned and instruments and supplies are set-up. Uses Universal Precautions. Sterilizes instruments, equipment and supplies as required. Handles and stores instruments, equipment and supplies appropriately.
19. Arranges for patients’ ordered diagnostic and therapeutic services by completing necessary paperwork and scheduling appointments.
20. Maintains patient records to ensure an accurate record of the patient’s medical treatment.
21. Prepares and administers vaccines, medications and controlled substances/narcotics as prescribed by the provider and as certified competencies permit. Asks prescribed screening questions, identifies risks and contraindications, questions and observes for appropriate responses.
22. Documents and processes prescription requests and refills per provider order.

Required Experience/Education

• Notes:
  • Other combinations of formal education, training and experience may be considered.
• Minimum Experience:
  • 1 – 2 years of previous clinical nursing experience
• Minimum Education:
  • Certificate of completion (degree or diploma) from an accredited LPN program
• Required Certification:
  • Licensed Practical Nurse; BCLS certification.
• Physical Demands:
  • Prolonged periods of standing/walking
  • Occasional sedentary work
  • Lifts supplies, files and equipment
  • Occasionally lifts, positions, pushes and/or transfers patients
  • Periodic reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching