Monday, July 26, 2010

Jobs & Skills For A Clinical Nurse

Clinical nurses work directly with patients providing patient care and assistance.


Clinical nurses refer to those who work directly with patients providing care and assistance. They work on the floor in hospitals, clinics and nursing homes. Positions in a doctor's practice allow clinical nurses to work outside the health care facility environment. Performing patient assessment, observing and reporting changes are examples of the duties done by clinical nurses.


Assessment Skills


Patient assessment is part of a clinical nurse's job duties.


Patient assessment skills include those used to operate equipment and record findings. Clinical nurses perform physical examinations, obtain vital signs and gather information regarding a patient's medical history. Equipment like a blood pressure cuff, stethoscope and thermometer allow nurses to measure vital signs. Clerical skills involving documentation, data entry and filing help nurses perform the administrative duties of their job.


Observation Skills


Careful observation, attention to detail and communication skills are useful for clinical nurses. They are responsible for noticing minute changes involving a patient's condition. They must report these changes to physicians or other health care providers using communication methods like through telephones, email or in person.


Hospital Jobs


Nurses work in hospitals and clinics providing patient care within the nursing scope of practice


Clinical nurses find employment in hospitals across the globe. Specialty nurses work with a specific type of patient. General care nurses provide patients care to those of all ages and conditions. Typically, nurses working in hospitals are assigned to work a single unit or floor allowing them to develop a routine and familiarize themselves with the inter-workings of the department.


Doctor's Office Position


A job working in a doctor's office is an employment option for clinical nurses. They offer the opportunity to work with patients of all ages and physical conditions. Nurses who work in a physician's office perform preliminary patient exams, prepare patients to see the doctor and assist with procedures and treatments. Organizational skills allow nurses to perform clerical duties like filing, scheduling and chart compilation.







Tags: nurses perform, with patients, allow nurses, care assistance, Clinical nurses