Triage RN - Family Medicine in Boone, North Carolina at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System

Position Summary A Telephone Triage Nurse is a highly skilled healthcare professional providing medical advice and support to patients over the phone. They play a vital role in assessing symptoms, offering precise healthcare guidance, and determining the urgency of medical care needed. As an integral part of the interprofessional team, the nurse systematically collects and evaluates patient data, utilizing evidence-based practices to drive clinical decisions. Their commitment extends to ensuring safety, effectiveness, and fiscal responsibility in care delivery. Adhering to the NC Nurse Practice Act, the nurse participates in continuous quality improvement and upholds ethical standards in interactions with patients and families.

Effective communication is a cornerstone of the Telephone Triage Nurse's practice, spanning patients, families, colleagues, and healthcare stakeholders. Their nursing approach focuses on achieving and maintaining optimal outcomes in patient experience, quality, and safety. They respond swiftly to changes in patient conditions and emergencies, offering assistance to coworkers, patients, and families within the parameters of their scope of practice and license. This commitment reflects their dedication to providing compassionate, respectful, and patient-centered care.

Compensation is commensurate upon education and experience. Hiring compensation ranges from $28.00 - $40.60 per hour. This is a non-exempt position.

Position Qualifications

Minimum Education

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program

Experience

• Clinical nursing experience, preferably in emergency medicine, or primary care.
• 2 years nursing experience with proficiency in triage and assessment.
• Experience in an outpatient or clinic setting is highly desirable.

Required Registration/License/Certification

• Current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) issued by the American Heart Association is required at time of hire.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the skills and abilities required to effectively function as a Telephone Triage Nurse.
• Excellent assessment and critical-thinking skills to accurately evaluate patient symptoms and conditions.
• Ability to work independently and make quick decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with medical terminology, common illnesses, and treatment options.
• Proficiency in using electronic medical records and other documentation systems.
• Compassion, empathy, and the ability to provide patient-centered care.

Physical Demands

• Mobility: Freely move within the clinic.
• Manual Dexterity: Use hands for typing, writing, and handling instruments.
• Vision: Clear vision for reading records and interpreting results.
• Lifting: Lift and carry equipment or assist with patient mobility.
• Sensory Acuity: Good hearing and visual acuity for effective communication.

Working Conditions

• Clinical Environment: Work in examination rooms with exposure to medical equipment.
• Fast-Paced Setting: Manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Collaboration: Regular interaction with healthcare professionals, patients, and families.
• Stressful Situations: Stay calm under pressure.
• Infection Control: Adhere to strict protocols for a safe environment.
• Technology Use: Comfortable using electronic health records and orthopedic software.

  About UNC Health Appalachian

  It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.“

  About UNC Health

  UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org.

  UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

  Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen.

  For accommodations or additional information, contact recruitment@apprhs.org.