HEAD NURSE

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CIASS 20120

(Non‑Competitive)

The work involves responsibility for supervising and directing the work of a number of registered and practical nurses and Nurse Aides. An employee in this classification is responsible for the supervision of a hospital care unit to insure quality patient care and to maintain standards of nursing service in accordance with the philosophy and policies of the facility. General supervision is received from the Nursing Supervisor. General supervision is exercised over a large staff of nurses and aides. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Initiates and coordinates all nursing activities related directly or indirectly to patient care to meet requirements of licensing authorities.

Supervises and participates with subordinates in patient care.

Develops a patient care plan to meet the entire needs of the patient for a twenty four (24) hour period and coordinates the care plan for all shifts.

Accompanies a physician on patient rounds and facilitates a better patient‑physician relationship.

Participates in the review and evaluation of a patient's condition with the physician.

Acts as liaison between the facility, physician, patient and the patient's family and friends.

Maintains quality clinical records and administrative records.

Develops the skills of subordinate staff and utilizes opportunities to enrich the clinical experience of the nursing staff on the unit.

Assists and cooperates with members of the medical staff and other professional personnel in providing for the needs of the patient.

Assists in the orientation of new personnel to the unit and assists in training of nursing staff.

Plans for a unit environment that is conducive to the physical, spiritual and emotional well being of both patients and employees.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Thorough knowledge of nursing principles and techniques and their relation to medical practice.

Good knowledge of material medical sanitation and personal hygiene.

Good knowledge of the principles and practices of nursing supervision.

Skill in the application of professional nursing techniques and practices.

Ability to plan, assign and supervise the work of professional and paraprofessional nurses and patient care employees.

Ability to explain instructions of a technical and professional nature.

Ability to accurately and completely prepare and maintain clinical records.

Ability to supervise the administration of therapeutic treatments prescribed by a physician.

Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Eighteen (18) months of work experience, or its part time equivalent, as a Registered Nurse, one (1) year of which must have been in a supervisory capacity.

SPECIAL NECESSARY REQUIREMENT

Possession of a current license to practice as a Registered Professional Nurse in New York State at the time of appointment.

9/04 Revised