Unit Coordinator-Medical Observation Full Time Days

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better healthcare, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. At Northwestern Medicine, we pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, we take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

The Unit Coordinator reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

Responsibilities:

• Performs unit-based reception, clerical, medical record and basic staffing functions.
• Is capable of setting priorities and handling emergency situations in a calm manner.
• Is customer oriented and able to communicate with all levels of staff and patients and their families.
• Serves as liaison between patient care units and all other patient related departments.
• Manages the overall unit workflow in concert with the charge RN and/or Unit Manager.
• Presents a friendly, approachable, professional demeanor and appearance.
• Provides accurate information and timely updates to patients and customers.
• Addresses questions and concerns promptly, or identifies appropriate person and resources to do so.
• Provides directions or help to patients and customers with finding their way.
• Participates in processes to improve the patient experience.
• Facilitates a well-organized work environment.
• Uses effective service recovery skills to solve problems or service breakdowns when they occur. 
• Demonstrates teamwork by helping co-workers within and across departments.
• Communicates effectively with others, respects diverse opinions and styles, and acknowledges the assistance and contributions of others.
• Uses organizational and unit/department resources efficiently. 
• Manages work schedule efficiently, completing tasks and assignments on time.
• Contributes to opportunities and processes for continuous improvement.
• Participates in efforts to reduce costs, streamline work processes, improve and grow services we provide.
• Communicates effectively and works cooperatively with other team members. Has respect for and understanding of other disciplines.
• Coordinates all work with the Manager and Charge Nurse.
• Communicates appropriately and clearly with Manager, Charge Nurse, co-workers and physicians.
• Consults and communicates with other departments and providers as appropriate both verbally and through Alert MD to provide for an interdisciplinary approach to the patients needs.
• Interacts professionally with patients/family and provides explanations and verbal reassurance as necessary.
• Attends 75% of Unit Meetings
• Prepares medical records for new admissions and disassembles the chart. Copies chart if needed. Prepares charts for MR pick-up.
• Maintains proper record assembly.
• Obtains necessary signatures and documents.
• Manages portable phones and maintains electronic whiteboard.
• Reviews open and future orders to ensure complete, accurate patient charges and provides necessary requisitions for those orders as needed
• Orders supplies, special equipment, and forms using the recommended guidelines.
• Seeks out and obtains learning opportunities.
• Participates in professional growth and development activities and shares knowledge from continuing education programs with co-workers
• Demonstrates computer competence for order entry, results, documentation, policies, etc.
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly
• Demonstrates the ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.
• Demonstrates confidence and success with multiple, high level, time sensitive tasks.
• Answers telephone in a polite manner and communicates information to the appropriate staff/family.
• Utilizes critical thinking skills to successfully demonstrate the ability to prioritize and complete unit work quickly as the needs of the unit, patients and staff change.
• Assists with unit staffing and scheduling as delegated to by the Unit Manager, Clinical Shift Coordinator, or Charge Nurse.

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to assess and determine situations requiring an interpreter and to use interpreter services effectively.
• Excellent customer service skills

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.