Registered Nurse (RN), Float Pool, PRN 3

As a Registered Nurse (RN) in the Float Pool at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC), your primary responsibilities include assessing patient needs, developing and modifying care plans, providing direct patient care, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. You will serve various patient populations across different medical units, ensuring each patient receives personalized care according to their specific needs.

To qualify for the Registered Nurse (RN) position at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC), candidates must hold a current Maryland RN license or be eligible through Compact state agreements. An Associate’s degree in nursing is required, with a BSN preferred. Additionally, you should have at least one year of RN experience and possess certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) as well as applicable unit-specific certifications like PALS or ACLS.

The Registered Nurse (RN) in the Float Pool at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC) has a flexible scheduling requirement, which includes a commitment of 48 hours every four weeks. This typically consists of working three 12-hour shifts on weekends, one major holiday, and two difficult-to-fill shifts each year. This balance allows for work-life flexibility while fulfilling your role in providing quality patient care.

In the role of Registered Nurse (RN) at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC), patient safety is a top priority. You are responsible for monitoring and mitigating risks throughout the care process. This includes taking corrective actions when potential hazards are observed, reporting adverse events or near misses, and adhering to regulatory compliance standards that enhance the safety of the healthcare environment.

The University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC) places strong emphasis on professional development for Registered Nurses (RNs). You will have access to continuing education programs, workshops, and nursing certifications to enhance your clinical skills and knowledge. Additionally, participation in interdisciplinary collaboration and quality improvement initiatives will allow you to contribute to the advancement of nursing practices within the organization.

To effectively prioritize patient care in a busy environment, I focus on conducting thorough assessments to identify immediate needs. I then utilize established triage protocols to categorize patients by severity and urgency, ensuring that the most critical cases receive attention first. Communication with team members is essential, and I regularly collaborate with colleagues to facilitate an efficient workflow.

One challenging situation I encountered involved a patient who was experiencing severe post-operative pain. I quickly assessed the patient's condition, collaborated with the surgical team, and adjusted the pain management protocol. Additionally, I provided emotional support to the patient and their family, keeping them informed throughout the process, which helped build trust and ease their concerns.

Effective communication is crucial in healthcare. I ensure it by actively participating in team meetings, utilizing clear and concise language when discussing patient care updates, and leveraging technology for information sharing. I also make it a priority to listen actively to my colleagues and provide feedback, fostering an environment of collaboration and respect.

During high-stress shifts, I rely on effective time management and organizational tips to maintain focus. I practice mindfulness techniques, take short breaks when possible, and ensure I communicate with my team for support. Prioritizing self-care and staying connected with colleagues helps me to remain calm and provide optimal care to my patients.

I stay current on nursing best practices by regularly attending workshops, participating in continuing education courses, and subscribing to professional nursing journals. I also engage in discussion forums and attend conferences to network with other professionals, which enhances my knowledge and skills.

My approach to patient education centers on assessing each patient's individual learning needs and preferences. I aim to provide clear and understandable information, utilizing teaching aids where applicable. I encourage questions and ensure that patients leave with actionable steps, which enhances their ability to manage their own health effectively.

Successful Registered Nurses (RNs) in the Float Pool must possess adaptability to work in various departments and with diverse patient populations. Strong clinical skills, excellent communication, and teamwork are also essential qualities. Additionally, an ability to stay calm under pressure and a commitment to continuous learning will ensure success in this dynamic role.

I handle conflicts by first approaching the situation with an open mind and a willingness to listen. For example, if a disagreement arises over patient care, I seek to understand my colleague's perspective and find common ground. Once we clarify our individual concerns, we collaboratively develop a solution that is in the best interest of our patients.

I quickly assess patient needs by employing a systematic approach that includes comprehensive history-taking and rapid physical assessments. I rely on both observational skills and clinical judgment, which allows me to identify priority issues and determine appropriate interventions in a timely manner.

I have extensive experience with electronic health records (EHR), utilizing different systems for documentation, medication administration, and patient management. I focus on accurately entering data to ensure continuity of care while safeguarding patient confidentiality. My familiarity with EHR systems allows me to enhance productivity and streamline communication among the healthcare team.