Registered Nurse - Outpatient Department of Surgery

As a Registered Nurse in the Outpatient Department of Surgery at Rochester General Hospital, your key responsibilities include performing initial and ongoing assessments of patients, developing and documenting individualized care plans, providing care in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team, and ensuring effective communication with patients and families. You will also evaluate and document patient responses to care, participate in quality improvement initiatives, and provide training for new team members.

To qualify for the Registered Nurse position at Rochester General Hospital, applicants must possess a Diploma or Associate’s Degree in Nursing, with a Bachelor’s Degree preferred. Additionally, candidates must hold a valid Registered Nurse license in New York State and maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

Registered Nurses in the Outpatient Department of Surgery at Rochester General Hospital work full-time with a schedule of Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm. This consistent schedule provides a great work-life balance while enabling nurses to focus on providing exceptional patient care.

Registered Nurses at Rochester General Hospital are required to complete a minimum of five nationally approved contact hours (CNE or CEU) each year and to participate in mandatory in-services and health screenings in a timely manner. This commitment to continuing education ensures that our nurses remain knowledgeable and up-to-date with best practices in patient care.

Rochester General Hospital offers numerous opportunities for professional development to Registered Nurses. This includes access to training programs, support for continuing education, participation in research initiatives, and involvement in quality improvement projects. We value the growth of our nursing staff and encourage nurses to pursue their professional goals.

When prioritizing patient care as a Registered Nurse, it's essential to assess the urgency and complexity of each patient's needs. Begin by conducting thorough assessments and communicating effectively with the interdisciplinary team to address critical issues first. Employing time management skills and being adaptable will also help ensure that each patient receives the attention they need in a timely manner.

Discussing your experience in a surgical outpatient setting should include specific examples of the types of procedures you've assisted with, your roles in patient education, and the collaboration you've had with surgeons and other healthcare professionals. Highlighting your ability to adapt to the fast-paced environment while ensuring patient safety will demonstrate your readiness for this position.

In handling challenging patient situations or difficult conversations, I focus on maintaining empathy and clear communication. I believe in actively listening to the patient's concerns, validating their feelings, and providing them with accurate information. Utilizing the teach-back method can also help ensure the patient understands their care plan and feel supported during their treatment journey.

My approach to working with interdisciplinary teams involves open communication, respect for varied expertise, and a focus on patient-centered care. I make it a point to actively participate in team meetings, share insights, and collaborate on creating comprehensive care plans that meet the diverse needs of our patients.

To maintain compliance with nursing regulations and hospital policies, I stay informed about the latest standards and participate in training sessions and in-services. I always prioritize documenting accurately and following protocols regarding medication administration and patient care, which contributes to a compliant and safe healthcare environment.

In discussing a situation where I advocated for a patient, I’d highlight a specific incident where I identified a need for additional support or resources for a patient. Sharing how I communicated with the healthcare team and ensured the patient received appropriate care can illustrate my commitment to patient advocacy and collaborative work.

To manage stress in a high-pressure healthcare environment, I prioritize self-care practices such as taking short breaks when possible, utilizing deep-breathing techniques, and maintaining open communication with colleagues about workload concerns. I also actively engage in professional development opportunities to enhance my skills, which builds my confidence in handling high-pressure situations.

To educate a patient effectively about their care plan, I would assess their understanding and adapt my teaching methods to accommodate their learning style. Providing clear, concise information, utilizing visual aids, and encouraging questions are all important. Moreover, the teach-back method reinforces understanding and confirms that the patient is prepared to follow their care plan.

Ensuring patient safety during procedures involves a systematic approach that includes thorough checks before any intervention, adhering to hygiene protocols, and promoting an environment where patients can voice any concerns. I believe regular team briefs and debriefs are also essential for maintaining an ongoing focus on patient safety.

I want to work as a Registered Nurse at Rochester General Hospital because of its commitment to delivering high-quality patient care and fostering a collaborative work environment. The excellent reputation of Rochester Regional Health in promoting professional growth for nurses aligns with my goals of developing my skills and making a positive impact on patient outcomes.