Health Center Triage RN

NORTHERN COUNTIES HEALTH CARE INC•Saint Johnsbury, VT

2h•Onsite

About The Position

The Health Center Triage RN provides critical initial patient assessments, largely via telephone, to determine the urgency and appropriate level of care required. This role is vital for ensuring efficient patient flow and prioritizing patients who need immediate attention, while adhering to established policies, procedures, and state and federal regulations. The Triage RN also acts as a primary liaison between patients, staff, and physicians, facilitating care evaluations and collaborating with other healthcare team members to provide comprehensive patient care.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited RN program.
Licensed in the State of Vermont.
Provider-level CPR/BLS required.
Minimum one-year experience in a clinical setting.
Familiarity with public health and community health issues.
Strong knowledge of disease processes, treatments, and medications, including effects and side effects.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills for patient interaction and provider coordination.
Ability to assess, triage, and provide clinical advice over the phone or in person based on established protocols.
Ability to multitask in a high-paced environment while maintaining professionalism and patient-centered care.
Proficiency in Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and other relevant computer applications.
High level of confidentiality and ethical standards in patient care.

Nice To Haves

ACLS and PALS may be required at some sites.
Experience preferably in primary care, urgent care, or telephonic triage.

Responsibilities

Screen and assess patient phone calls, providing appropriate clinical advice, or scheduling appointments.
Utilize clinical guidelines to determine urgency and appropriate level of care for patients.
Communicate effectively with patients regarding symptoms, self-care recommendations, and follow-up instructions.
Coordinate with office staff to manage patient flow and appointment scheduling.
Conduct in-person and telephonic nursing assessments to determine the level of care needed.
Provide immediate care recommendations for urgent symptoms and escalate cases as necessary.
Document triage assessments and interventions in the EMR.
Support providers by gathering pertinent patient information before visits.
Follow standing orders for medication refills, test ordering, and routine health maintenance per protocols.
Educate patients about medications, treatments, and follow-up care.
Administer vaccinations and medications as needed per provider orders and site protocols.
Participate in quality assurance initiatives to improve patient care and triage efficiency.
Maintain compliance with health center policies, state, and federal regulations.
Engage in continuing education and training to stay current with best practices in nursing triage.
Follow proper infection control protocols and ensure a clean clinical environment.
Assist with emergency situations and coordinate patient care as needed.
Support team members and providers in delivering high-quality patient care.
Participate in staff meetings and training sessions as required.
Meet productivity and performance standards set by the Nurse Manager and NCHC Division protocols.