Travel Nurse RN - ED - Emergency Department
Des Moines, IA
Magnet Medical
3x12 hrs, Nights

The Registered Nurse (RN) in the Emergency Room (ER) provides critical care to patients in urgent or emergent conditions. The RN in the ER works in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, delivering immediate care to patients suffering from injuries, illnesses, or trauma. They assess, triage, and treat patients in collaboration with physicians, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals, ensuring the best outcomes in a dynamic setting.

• Triage and Patient Assessment:

  • Perform initial assessments of patients presenting in the ER, including triaging based on the severity of their condition.
  • Evaluate patient history, conduct physical assessments, and identify urgent health issues to prioritize care.
  • Collect patient vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, pulse, respiration) and other relevant data to determine immediate care needs.

• Emergency Care and Treatment:

  • Administer medications, fluids, and treatments as prescribed, including intravenous (IV) fluids, antibiotics, pain management, and other emergency medications.
  • Perform wound care, splinting, suturing, and other interventions as needed for trauma or injury patients.
  • Provide emergency life-saving interventions, including CPR, advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), and trauma care.
  • Assist in resuscitation efforts, including managing ventilators, intubation, and defibrillation when necessary.

• Collaboration with Medical Team:

  • Work closely with physicians, nurse practitioners, and other team members to develop and implement patient care plans.
  • Assist with diagnostic testing, such as lab work, imaging (X-rays, CT scans), and electrocardiograms (ECGs), based on patient needs.
  • Communicate clearly and efficiently with the healthcare team, updating them on changes in patient status and discussing care options.

• Monitoring and Documentation:

  • Continuously monitor patients' conditions, noting changes in vital signs, mental status, and symptoms.
  • Document all patient assessments, treatments, and outcomes accurately in the electronic health record (EHR).
  • Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and hospital standards for patient care and documentation.

• Patient and Family Communication:

  • Provide clear explanations to patients and their families about diagnoses, procedures, and treatment plans.
  • Offer emotional support to patients and families experiencing stress or anxiety due to medical emergencies.
  • Advocate for patients’ needs and coordinate care with other departments to ensure timely interventions.

• Infection Control and Safety:

  • Follow strict infection control protocols, including appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
  • Ensure the ER environment remains safe and sterile for both patients and staff.
  • Respond to potential biohazardous situations with proper precautions and protocols.

• Crisis Management:

  • Handle a wide range of patient emergencies, from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions, using critical thinking and rapid decision-making skills.
  • Manage high-stress situations effectively, staying calm while providing life-saving interventions.
  • Prioritize care based on patient acuity and available resources, ensuring efficient use of ER staff and equipment.

• Patient Discharge and Follow-Up:

  • Provide discharge instructions and explain the next steps in care, including medication instructions, follow-up appointments, or referrals.
  • Educate patients on preventive measures and care after discharge, especially in cases of trauma or chronic conditions.

• Teamwork and Mentorship:

  • Collaborate with emergency room staff, including physicians, nurses, support staff, and paramedics, to ensure coordinated patient care.
  • Act as a mentor or preceptor for new nurses, students, and less experienced staff members, providing guidance and support in emergency care procedures.