Job Description

The Senior Nurse is an experienced and highly skilled registered nurse who provides expert clinical care, leadership, and mentorship. This role serves as a clinical resource for nursing staff, collaborates with the interdisciplinary team, and actively participates in quality improvement initiatives to ensure the delivery of safe, effective, and patient-centered care. The Senior Nurse demonstrates advanced clinical competence, critical thinking, and a commitment to professional development.

Responsibilities:

Clinical Leadership & Expertise:

• Provide expert-level direct patient care, utilizing advanced assessment skills, clinical judgment, and evidence-based practices.
• Serve as a clinical resource and role model for nursing staff, providing guidance, support, and mentorship.
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in [Specify area of specialty, e.g., wound care, medication administration, critical care procedures].
• Participate in the development and implementation of nursing care plans and protocols.
• Collaborate with physicians and other members of the interdisciplinary team to ensure coordinated and comprehensive patient care.
• Advocate for patients and their families, ensuring their needs and preferences are respected.
• Participate in patient and family education, providing clear and concise information about their condition, treatment plan, and self-care strategies.

Mentorship & Education:

• Orient and mentor new nursing staff, students, and other healthcare professionals.
• Provide ongoing education and in-service training to nursing staff on relevant clinical topics and best practices.
• Facilitate skill development and competency assessment of nursing staff.
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within the nursing team.

Quality Improvement & Patient Safety:

• Actively participate in unit-based and organizational quality improvement initiatives.
• Identify and report potential safety hazards and contribute to the development of strategies to mitigate risks.
• Participate in the collection and analysis of data related to patient outcomes and nursing practice.
• Contribute to the development and revision of policies, procedures, and standards of care.
• Promote adherence to national and organizational patient safety goals.

Operational Support:

• Assist the Nurse Manager/Clinical Nurse Manager in daily operational activities, including patient assignments and workflow management.
• Participate in staff meetings and contribute to decision-making processes.
• Assist with inventory management and ensure adequate supplies and equipment are available.
• May assume charge nurse responsibilities as needed.
• Contribute to the efficient and effective functioning of the unit/department.

Professional Development & Accountability:

• Maintain current knowledge of nursing practice, trends, and research through ongoing professional development activities.
• Adhere to the ethical and legal standards of nursing practice.
• Maintain accurate and complete documentation of patient care.
• Participate in professional organizations and activities as appropriate.
• Demonstrate accountability for own professional practice and contribute to a positive and professional work environment.