RN Staff Nurse - 6F Observation

UPMC • Altoona, PA

6h • Onsite

About The Position

UPMC is seeking a Registered Nurse for the 6F Observation/Discharge Unit at UPMC Altoona. This role is suitable for both experienced nurses and new graduates, with future graduates able to apply up to one year in advance. The position offers an opportunity to provide Life Changing Medicine alongside an interdisciplinary team of medical professionals. UPMC is committed to employee growth and well-being, providing ongoing learning opportunities and a premier benefits package. The 6F Observation/Discharge Unit is a 24-bed, fast-paced adult unit specializing in timely and efficient patient care. It observes and monitors patients for 6-24 hours (up to 48 hours) to determine the need for inpatient admission or readiness for discharge. The unit cares for patients with conditions such as chest pain, abdominal pain, asthma exacerbations, and stable cardiac arrhythmias. Additionally, it accommodates patients discharged from inpatient units awaiting transport. The team is dedicated to outstanding care, continuous improvement through evidence-based practice, and mutual support.

Requirements

• Must hold a current license to practice nursing in the State of Pennsylvania.
• Must satisfactorily complete the Nursing Department's orientation program and probationary period.
• Must complete NIHSS education prior to end of orientation period, if required.
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire
• NIH Stroke Scale (NIH)
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Act 34
• Current licensure either in the state where the facility is located or, if the facility is in a state covered by the multistate Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) agreement, a multistate license issued by a participating NLC state. Hires and current employees working on an out-of-state NLC license who later change their residency to the state where the facility is also located will have 60 days upon changing their residency to apply for licensure within that state.

Responsibilities

• Provide Direct Care: Use nursing protocols and standards to perform and document procedures safely and accurately. Administer medications and IV therapy following policy.
• Assess and Reassess: Evaluate and document patient and family needs. Reassess patients every eight hours or as needed.
• Plan Care: Involve patients and families in creating care plans. Prioritize needs, conduct care conferences, and maintain up-to-date care plans. Coordinate with community agencies and other professionals.
• Engage in Team Discussions: Work with medical staff and other professionals to discuss and develop patient care plans.
• Utilize Systems: Use Bed Management System, Alpha, CPOE, and other relevant computer systems efficiently.
• Teach and Educate: Initiate health teaching for patients and families based on their needs. Contribute to the education of staff and students.
• Consult and Lead: Offer guidance and support to other healthcare team members. Demonstrate professionalism in all interactions.
• Follow Precautions: Adhere to universal precautions and occupational exposure policies. Identify and address potential problems and environmental factors affecting patient care.
• Maintain Competency: Complete annual competency validation and stay proficient in point-of-care testing as per lab criteria.

Benefits

• ongoing learning opportunities
• premier benefits package designed to support you and your family
• competitive starting pay, with rates that reflect your nursing education and professional experience
• newly enhanced pay, with starting rates increasing by $4/hour
• additional $2 shift differential

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees