Reports to:
Head of Nursing
Department:
Nursing
Key Result Areas:
• Oversees the preparation of the delivery system and dialyzer and confirms that all mandatory alar tests on the dialyzer equipment are performed.
• Reviews physician orders for dialysis patients, collects pre-treatment dialysis data, and reviews patient records prior to dialysis.
• Verifies that patients are taking all prescribed medications and performs medication reconciliation.
• Conducts pre-dialysis assessment including obtaining patient vital signs and assessing the patient’s vascular access, labs, and the patients’ general health.
• Documents findings of patient assessment and interventions and advises providers of any significant change in the patients’ condition and other pertinent information.
• Discusses patient concerns and answers questions relevant to care.
• Oversees dialysis technicians in the performance of dialysis from start to finish, monitors patient reaction to treatment and performance of the dialysis machines, and demonstrates an in-depth understanding of the mechanics of dialysis.
• Maintains skills necessary to perform surveillance on dialysis access (Catheter, fistula, graft) for early signs of failure or infection; this includes (if needed and after receiving the appropriate training) the ability to perform arteriovenous access monitoring using ultrasound machine per protocol.
• Review’s patient’s records for order as appropriate and administers dialysis- related intra venous and/ or oral medications as prescribed and/ or per protocol.
• Provides patient education/teaching applicable to the patient’s medical condition.
• Refers patients to other disciplines or services as needed (nutrition, social work, etc).
• Performs other treatments and diagnostics tests such as blood sugar testing and other tests required as part of patient treatment.
• Oversees disassembly and disinfection of dialysis equipment.
• Performs surveillance and testing of dialysis water treatment equipment and dialysis water (such as chlorine, hardness, conductivity, water cultures) to ensure that these machines are operating within the parameters set in the facility’s written protocols.
• Demonstrates a working knowledge of dialysis laboratory tests and dialysis medications.
• Demonstrates an in-depth understanding of infection control and prevention of transmission of blood borne pathogens.
• Responds appropriately and provides assistance in emergency situations.
• Provides leadership in improving patient care, directing and teaching personnel in a variety of settings, and providing charge nurse responsibilities as needed.
• Works closely with others on the dialysis team and participates in interdisciplinary team meetings.
• Maintains responsibility for providing coverage to the dialysis department.
• Responsible for implementing and maintain the dialysis policy and procedure manual.
• Maintains competencies and skills check list for dialysis staff.
• Evaluates the performance of dialysis staff.
• Provides orientation to new dialysis staff members.
• Maintains appropriate supply level of specialized dialysis consumables.
• Monitors and ensures dialysis machines are properly maintained.
• Delivering a professional and high standard of nursing care within the hospital
Competencies/Abilities:
• Integrity
• A good understanding of the medical/health care and hospitality industry
• Excellent communication and management skills
• Self motivated and result orientated
Specific Skills
• Supervision and managerial skills
• Ability to problem-solve and apply critical thinking skills.
• Sound decision making
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Analysis and planning skills
• Leadership and organizing skills
• Negotiation skills
Knowledge/Qualifications and Experience
• Registration in Nursing Diploma
• Minimum of 3 years nursing experience
• Current BLS Certification
• Current ACLS Certification
• Ability to enact policies and procedures.
• A comprehensive understanding of the nursing processes.
The role of the Charge Nurse Renal Centre will plan, organize, implement, and evaluate patient care. The Charge Nurse coordinates, delegates, provides, direct nursing care for patients and oversees the daily functions of the dialysis staff. Provides supervision for team members in accordance with their level of training and the patient’s acuity.
