Graduate Nurse Associate, Orthopedic-Neuro, Bariatric

Job Description

Graduate Nurse Associate, Orthopedic-Neuro, Bariatric – Parkwest Medical Center

Employment Type: Full Time
Hours: 72 Hours Per Pay Period
Shift: Night Shift

Parkwest Medical Center Overview

Parkwest Medical Center, a flagship facility of Covenant Health in West Knoxville, is a leading healthcare provider in East Tennessee. Established in 1973, it has grown to become the region’s largest hospital, renowned for its world-class cardiac expertise and a commitment to compassionate, community-centered care. Parkwest offers a comprehensive range of advanced services, including an all-digital catheterization lab, extensive breast health programs, and robust emergency and critical care. The center consistently ranks among Tennessee’s top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and has achieved national recognition as a Top 100 Heart Hospital. Additionally, it holds an “A” safety grade from Leapfrog, underscoring its dedication to patient safety. As part of Covenant Health, the region’s largest employer, Parkwest Medical Center seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with personalized care, earning accolades for excellence in cardiology, stroke care, surgical outcomes, and overall patient safety.

To explore more about Parkwest Medical Center and its units, please visit: Covenant Health Parkwest Medical Center Opportunities.

3 Dogwood: Orthopedic-Neuro, Bariatric Unit

The 3 Dogwood unit at Parkwest is a specialized 36-bed unit located within the recently expanded Dogwood Tower, which opened in December 2019. This fast-paced unit focuses on Orthopedic Joint/Spine and Bariatric patient care. The average length of stay for Joint and Bariatric patients is typically 23 hours or less, highlighting the dynamic environment and efficient patient flow.

A Day on 3 Dogwood Unit

A typical day on 3 Dogwood involves a diverse range of patient care activities, from pain management and drain monitoring to mobilizing patients on the day of surgery and facilitating their discharge home. Parkwest’s orthopedic and spine programs are nationally and regionally recognized for their excellent outcomes and outstanding quality.

One of the most engaging aspects of 3 Dogwood is its strong emphasis on teamwork. Nurses on this unit are integral members of a collaborative team of health professionals, including:

• Registered Nurses (RNs)
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
• Student Nurse Associates (SNAs)
• Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)
• Health Unit Coordinators (HUCs)
• Physical Therapists (PTs)
• Occupational Therapists (OTs)
• Clinical Dietitians

This multidisciplinary team works closely together, prioritizing patient well-being to deliver excellent patient care and achieve optimal outcomes.

Scheduling & Environment

The unit utilizes a preferred self-scheduling model covering a six-week period, offering staff members flexibility. Staff rotate every other major holiday and weekend. 3 Dogwood warmly welcomes staff members of all experience levels, from new graduates to seasoned healthcare professionals. The unit prides itself on a supportive environment, and orientation is individually tailored to meet the specific needs of each new team member. We invite you to join our amazing team on 3 Dogwood!

Position Summary: Graduate Nurse Associate

The Graduate Nurse Associate position is specifically designed to facilitate the smooth transition of upcoming graduates from an accredited nursing program into the professional workforce. Under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), the Graduate Nurse Associate performs a wide variety of patient care activities and supportive services.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Demonstrates competence in performing critical skills (as outlined in the appropriate delegation grid competency checklist), ensuring appropriate delivery of care tailored to the age-specific needs of the served population.
• Accurately takes and records vital signs, including temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, weight, height, and intake-output measurements. Documents oxygen saturation for patients connected to continuous pulse oximetry.
• Adheres to all established infection control policies, including standard precautions, transmission-based isolation precautions, OSHA standards, safety measures, and proper body mechanics during job performance.
• Completes designated patient care activities while ensuring patient comfort and privacy.
• Identifies and assists patients requiring support with nutrition and/or hydration.
• If trained and competency demonstrated, accurately empties drains, canisters, urine bags, bedpans, and emesis basins, and records intake and output.
• Contributes to maintaining a clean and orderly patient and work environment.
• Assists the RN in gathering a thorough nursing history on assigned patients.
• Demonstrates effective therapeutic communication skills with patients and their families.
• Documents and maintains patient records as appropriate, including basic charting, admission history, and basic observations under the guidance of the RN.
• Observes and promptly reports any significant changes in a patient’s condition to the supervising RN.
• Obtains the RN’s signature on all entries made in the patient record.
• Completes assigned tasks with minimal supervision, but actively seeks guidance when uncertain on how to perform a procedure.
• Communicates suggestions and/or complaints through appropriate channels. Displays cooperation, flexibility, and a positive attitude towards patients and other staff members.
• Demonstrates the ability to effectively perform under stress.
• Adheres to all policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required annual education assignments. Actively works toward achieving goals and objectives and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
• Performs other duties as assigned to support patient care and unit operations.

Minimum Education

Must have graduated from an accredited registered nursing education program.

Minimum Experience

None required; however, the ability to perform as a nursing assistant is essential. Previous hospital experience is preferred. Candidates must be proficient in computer operation and possess excellent interpersonal skills.

Licensure Requirement

Current CPR certification is required.