Position Description: The RN will utilize their broad-based clinical knowledge to effectively assess, implement health promotion and prevention interventions, manage acute and chronic illness states, assist patient/residents in the attainment of optimal levels of functioning rehabilitation, evaluate patient/resident response to actual or potential health problems, and provide supportive measures for the dying patient/resident and their significant others. Nursing care is performed in accordance with the Louisiana Registered Nurses Practice Act and within the individual nurse’s scope of license. The VA Nurse Manager(s), or appropriate nursing leadership delegate (i.e. Assistant Nurse Manager), will provide the RN with clinical oversight during their tour of duty. More specific duties and responsibilities of the Registered Nurse are described below and shall be assessed by the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System (SLVHCS) VAMC prior to provider acceptance.

Key Responsibilities:

(1) Maintain patient/resident confidentiality and a safe patient/resident care environment, including familiarity with requirements such as medication administration, patient/resident/family education, discharge process, restraint usage, hazardous waste disposal, etc., as defined by The Joint Commission and all other VA regulatory bodies (i.e. Long-Term Care Unannounced Survey Program and Office of Inspector General).

(2) Provide patient/resident-centered care by performing the following tasks:

• assess the health care needs of the patient/resident and maintain or develop a plan of care to meet interdisciplinary goals.
• assess and act on significant changes in the patient’s/resident’s health condition.
• carry out the plan of care by performing/assigning delegated tasks.
• collect and document pertinent data into the electronic patient/resident medical record.
• complete nursing assessments within required time frames, and in accordance with policy and procedure.
• identify and act on predictable needs of the patient/resident.
• meet the health care needs of patient/resident by assessing and assisting the patient/resident to meet expressed needs.
• meet the emotional and spiritual needs of patients/residents and/or families.
• prioritize and complete tasks within the RN’s assigned shift.
• update patient/resident care plans.
• notify assigned physician of any changes in condition.
• report incidents of verbal or physical abuse immediately to the Nurse Manager of the unit they are assigned; or designated off-shift nursing leadership.

(3) Perform the following tasks:

• perform head-to-toe assessment.
• insert IV lines.
• care and management of peripheral and central lines, including PICC lines.
• administer medication including IVs.
• coordinate and participate in admission and discharge of patient.
• measure vital signs, including pain (the 5th vital sign), pulse oximetry, etc.
• perform wound care assessments including dressing changes (sterile and non-sterile) and obtaining wound cultures as necessary.
• obtain and deliver specimens to lab.
• perform tracheostomy care.
• perform non-acute ventilator care, if needed
• perform suctioning including oral, nasogastric, and tracheostomy.
• perform deep suctioning, which may include obtaining specimens.
• assess for and administer tube feedings.
• assist with routine urinary and bowel elimination including catheters, colostomies, and digital stimulation.
• educate patients/residents and/or families regarding health and diagnoses and medication administration including indications for the medication.
• respond and assist in an emergency situation.
• provide clinical oversight to Licensed Practical Nurses, Nursing Assistants and Health Technicians
• One-to-one observation to include virtual observation.
• Performing capillary blood glucose and monitoring

Qualifications:  

• Nurses must have active, current RN license in any state (United States).
• Graduate of a school of professional nursing approved by the appropriate State-accrediting agency and accredited by one of the following accrediting bodies at the time the program was completed by the applicant: The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
• A Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing or a related field is required. However, candidates with an Associate Degree or diploma in Nursing will be considered if they hold a valid license and have current experience. 

About Aptive: Aptive is a modern federal consulting firm focused on human experience, digital services, and business transformation. We harness creativity, technology, and culture to connect people and systems to impact the world. We’re advisors, strategists, and engineers focused on people, above all else. We believe in generating success collaboratively, leaving client organizations stronger after every engagement and building trust for the next big challenge. Our work inspires people, fuels change, and makes an impact. Join our team to be part of positive change in your community and our nation.  

EEO Statement: Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, Veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class.  

Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.