ED Communications Secretary

Summary:

Under the supervision of the Registered Nurse, the Unit Secretary performs the clerical functions necessary for proper functioning of a patient care unit in accordance with Nursing Department policies and procedures.

In critical care units, the Unit Secretary may also monitor the EKG waveform displays in a centralized telemetry monitoring station.

• Transcribes physician’s orders from the chart to proper patient records accurately.
• Monitors intercom system; gives reassurance to patients; notifies nursing staff immediately of needs.
• Informs Charge Nurse of all pertinent information. Fosters positive physician relations.
• Displays telephone courtesy, answers promptly. Relays messages accurately to appropriate personnel.
• Informs patient/families of discharge procedure. Promptly removes patient from computer at time of discharge.
• Responds appropriately in all code situations.
• Uses supplies and equipment appropriately, records charges appropriately.
• Manages inventory control with prevention of overstock while keeping adequate supplies necessary for effective unit function.
• Uses good judgment in prioritizing of physicians’ orders for transcription.
• Grieving Process:
  Allows for patient and family to express feelings.
• Participates in the majority of prescribed in-service programs and departmental meetings. When unable to attend, follows up to obtain information discussed.
• Complies with timekeeping system. Prompt in reporting for duty. Accrues no unexcused absences, and no more than three unscheduled absences.
• Follows hospital and/or unit policy for dress and personal hygiene.
• Follows necessary safety precautions, hospital policies and departmental policies.
• Completes infection control, safety, and other assigned education.
• Follows hospital policies and/or departmental rules.
• Follows the CHRISTUS Health Guidelines related to the Health Insurance Portability and
• Accountability Act (HIPAA), designed to prevent or detect unauthorized disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI)
• Associate timely completes all required educational assignments.
• Follows instructions and completes assigned tasks for patient and department needs in a courteous and organized manner.

• Will monitor and document changes in rhythm and will report these changes according to established protocol. Requires thorough knowledge of arrhythmia recognition.
• Rhythm strips are run at the beginning of each shift on all patients and as needed.
• Strips are delivered within thirty (30) minutes of run time.
• Consistently updates log to reflect admits, discharges, transfers, as well as calls to nurse’s stations about monitoring problems.
• Organizes nursing station and keeps unit adequately supplied.
• Identifies all life threatening arrhythmias and reports same to nurse responsible for patient or to charge nurse.

• High School diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Must possess good written and oral communication skills Basic typing and prior computer skills preferred.

• One (1) year of experience preferred
• EKG/arrhythmia interpretation background desired
• Basic knowledge of medical terminology

• Demonstrates required computer skills within one month of employment.
• AHA BLS certification within two (2) weeks of employment

• Successful completion of basic arrhythmia course for unlicensed personnel within one month or after first available course offered.

3 Days - 12 Hours

Full Time