Clinical Nurse Specialist

Advocate Aurora Health is in search of a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) for a nursing role focused on Med Surg.

• Specialty: Med Surg
• Discipline: RN
• Work Schedule: 32 hours per week
• Shift: Daytime
• Employment Type: Staff

Primary Duties:

The role encompasses responsibilities within the 84South Pre-Post Department, which features:

• A 54-bed unit spanning two levels
• Procedural floor (Pain, GI, IR)
• Operating room floor (ENT, Ortho, Urology, Peds, General, Podiatry, GYN, & Plastics)

Patients are prepared and recovered in the same room, with no traditional PACU area, as they return to the pre-op room post-procedure. Pre/Post Nurses may be required to work across both floors based on patient volumes.

Shift Details: Start times may commence as early as 0500 and conclude as late as 1900, with early and late shifts rotated among team members.

As an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC), strict admission criteria are adhered to, ensuring patient suitability for the ASC environment. All RNs are required to hold ACLS and PALS certifications, with emergency situations necessitating a 911 call.

Patient Care Responsibilities:

• Utilize the nursing process to assess patient needs, plan, implement tailored interventions, and evaluate care effectiveness.
• Recognize significant changes in patient conditions and collaborate with healthcare team members to coordinate patient-centered care.
• Implement strategies to enhance patient safety and readiness to learn, customizing approaches as necessary.
• Coordinate discharge plans using an interdisciplinary approach and apply evidence-based practices in patient care.
• Evaluate patient, team, and unit outcomes, taking action when necessary to improve processes and outcomes.
• Foster effective communication and collaboration among healthcare team members, assuming a leadership role as needed.
• Promote a culture of safety by identifying and addressing potential threats to patient safety.
• Engage in quality improvement initiatives to enhance departmental functions and patient care experiences.
• Participate in professional development activities and maintain required competencies.

Licensure and Certification:

• Registered Nurse license issued by the state of practice.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association (AHA).

Educational Requirements:

• Completion of an accredited nursing program.
• ACLS and PALS certifications are required in addition to BLS.

Experience:

• Minimum of one year of clinical nursing experience.
• Day surgery experience is strongly preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to recognize situational changes requiring timely interventions.
• Proficient in computer skills, including electronic medical records.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to develop rapport and maintain professional relationships.
• Strong decision-making, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective time management and multitasking abilities.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting, bending, and reaching.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and carry up to 40 lbs. a reasonable distance.
• Exposure to chemical and hazardous materials may occur; protective equipment is provided.

This position description outlines the general nature and level of work expected. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.