Job Description

The Registered Practical Nurse promotes collaborative team practice amongst all disciplines. The RPN provides nursing care, assistance with procedures, coordination and excellence in communication with all members of the Diagnostic Services health care team in a fast paced environment. Efforts are coordinated to provide safe, accurate, timely, quality service for all patients receiving care in the Diagnostic Services Department. The Registered Practical Nurse is a role model of professional values, beliefs and attributes in accordance with the SJHH mission and College of Nurses standards.

Qualifications:
•Current RPN registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario in good standing AND Practical Nursing Diploma from an accredited college program with evidence of IV medication administration as part of the basic curriculum
•5-years recent, general nursing experience, with strong knowledge of sterile techniques, and IV starts. Imaging and/or Operating Room nursing experience preferred
•CPR and BCLS certificate
•IV injection and contrast media course
•Venipuncture certificate with current venipuncture skills preferred
•Basic keyboarding skills and ability to utilize computer programs to confirm/update patient information i.e. in hospital HIS/RIS system
•Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and tactfully and to maintain good interpersonal relationships, customer service skills and conflict resolution skills
•Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to set own priorities to meet changing workload demands
•Frequent exposure to radiation with the need to wear a lead apron
•Proven commitment to continuing education and involvement in professional organizations i.e. Ontario Society of Diagnostic Imaging Nurses

Responsibilities:
•Participates in the effective management of patient visits by preparing patients and supporting the activities of physicians, technologists and/or radiologists in performing various imaging procedures
•Prepares patient for imaging procedures, monitors patients and reports any allergies or unusual reactions and concerns regarding patient's condition to radiologist
•Cleans and prepares trays/carts, ensures that oxygen tanks are changed, product expiry dates are checked, suction units are in operating order and all needed supplies are restocked/reordered in a timely manner
•Performs a variety of interventions as prescribed for the patient in a manner that ensures patient dignity, respect and confidentiality. e.g. IV injections, administer x-ray dye, venipuncture, insertion of cystogram catheters as per Radiologist orders
•Educates patients on procedural details including fasting, oral/rectal contrasts, bloodwork/puncture sites, instruction on metformin, and ensures adequate information is provided and consent forms are obtained
•Moves equipment to accommodate scheduled procedures and ensures a safe environment in the department, bringing any areas of concern forward for review
•Participates in the orientation of new staff and students
•Performs related duties as assigned by the Manager

St. Joseph’s Nursing Vision is to make a difference in the lives of those we care for, our organization, and the future of our community through achievement of excellence in nursing and commitment to a culture of nursing innovation, empowerment, leadership and accountability.