## RN Navigator - Interventional Radiology at Sanford Health, Bemidji, Minnesota: A Comprehensive Overview ### Role Overview The RN Navigator - Interventional Radiology role at Sanford Health in Bemidji, Minnesota, is a pivotal position that blends clinical expertise with patient advocacy. This role requires a registered nurse (RN) to guide patients through the complexities of interventional radiology procedures, ensuring they receive coordinated, compassionate, and comprehensive care. The RN Navigator serves as a central point of contact for patients, their families, and the interdisciplinary care team, facilitating seamless transitions and optimal outcomes. This position is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients undergoing complex medical procedures. The RN Navigator acts as an educator, a counselor, and a coordinator, ensuring that patients are well-informed, supported, and empowered throughout their journey. This involves understanding the intricacies of interventional radiology, the emotional and physical challenges patients face, and the importance of personalized care. ### A Day in the Life of an RN Navigator A typical day for an RN Navigator in Interventional Radiology at Sanford Health involves a multifaceted approach to patient care. The day begins with reviewing patient schedules and preparing for upcoming procedures. This includes: * **Pre-Procedure Preparation:** Contacting patients to provide pre-procedure education, answering questions, and addressing any concerns. This may involve explaining the procedure, discussing potential risks and benefits, and ensuring patients understand their role in the process. * **Assessment and Evaluation:** Conducting thorough patient assessments to identify specific needs and potential challenges. This includes reviewing medical history, current medications, and any pre-existing conditions that may impact the procedure or recovery. * **Care Coordination:** Collaborating with the interventional radiology team, including physicians, technologists, and other healthcare professionals, to ensure seamless coordination of care. This may involve scheduling appointments, arranging transportation, and coordinating any necessary pre-operative testing. * **Intra-Procedure Support:** Providing support to patients and their families during the procedure. This may involve answering questions, offering reassurance, and monitoring patient vital signs. * **Post-Procedure Follow-Up:** Following up with patients after the procedure to assess their recovery, address any complications, and provide ongoing education and support. This may involve phone calls, home visits, or follow-up appointments. * **Documentation and Reporting:** Maintaining accurate and complete patient records, documenting all interactions and interventions. This also includes tracking patient outcomes and reporting any adverse events. * **Registry Management:** Managing disease registries to ensure patients are meeting clinical and evidence-based goals. This involves identifying patients who are not meeting goals, following up with them, and implementing strategies to improve outcomes. * **Patient Education:** Developing and providing individualized patient education materials based on assessed needs. This may involve creating educational brochures, conducting one-on-one teaching sessions, or facilitating support groups. ### Why Bemidji, Minnesota? Bemidji, Minnesota, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to outdoor recreation. Situated on the shores of Lake Bemidji, this vibrant community provides a high quality of life for its residents. Here are some compelling reasons to consider a career at Sanford Health in Bemidji: * **Outdoor Paradise:** Bemidji is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its pristine lakes, lush forests, and extensive trail systems, residents can enjoy a wide range of activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. * **Family-Friendly Community:** Bemidji is a welcoming and family-friendly community with excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community spirit. * **Affordable Living:** Compared to larger metropolitan areas, Bemidji offers a more affordable cost of living, making it an attractive option for those seeking to stretch their budget further. * **Cultural Amenities:** Despite its small size, Bemidji boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with art galleries, theaters, and music venues. * **Access to Healthcare:** Sanford Health is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering comprehensive medical services to the community. Working at Sanford Health provides access to cutting-edge technology and a supportive work environment. * **Work-Life Balance:** Bemidji offers a relaxed pace of life, allowing residents to achieve a better work-life balance. ### Career Path for RN Navigators The RN Navigator role provides a solid foundation for career advancement within Sanford Health. Here are some potential career paths: * **Senior RN Navigator:** With experience and expertise, RN Navigators can advance to senior roles, taking on leadership responsibilities and mentoring junior colleagues. * **Clinical Nurse Specialist:** RN Navigators can pursue advanced education and become Clinical Nurse Specialists, providing expert consultation and education to other healthcare professionals. * **Nurse Manager:** RN Navigators can transition into management roles, overseeing nursing teams and managing clinical operations. * **Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN):** RN Navigators can pursue advanced degrees and become Nurse Practitioners or Clinical Nurse Specialists, providing direct patient care and prescribing medications. * **Nurse Educator:** RN Navigators can transition into education roles, teaching nursing students or providing continuing education to practicing nurses. ### Salary and Benefits The salary range for RN Navigators at Sanford Health in Bemidji, Minnesota, typically falls between $68,000 and $105,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and certifications. In addition to a competitive salary, Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision insurance * **Paid Time Off:** Vacation, sick leave, and holidays * **Retirement Plan:** 401(k) or similar plan with employer match * **Life Insurance:** Basic and supplemental life insurance * **Disability Insurance:** Short-term and long-term disability insurance * **Employee Assistance Program (EAP):** Confidential counseling and support services * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Financial assistance for continuing education * **Employee Discounts:** Discounts on various products and services ### Sanford Health Culture Sanford Health is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for its employees. The organization values teamwork, collaboration, and innovation. Sanford Health also emphasizes patient-centered care, putting the needs of patients first. ### How to Apply To apply for the RN Navigator - Interventional Radiology position at Sanford Health in Bemidji, Minnesota, please visit the Sanford Health careers website. You will need to create an account and submit your resume and cover letter. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. **What are the essential qualifications for this role?** *A Bachelor's degree in Nursing is strongly preferred. Graduation from an accredited nursing program and an unencumbered RN license in Minnesota are required. A minimum of two years’ clinical experience is preferred.* 2. **What are the key responsibilities of an RN Navigator?** *The RN Navigator is responsible for providing individualized nursing care, coordinating patient care, developing and implementing care plans, and providing patient education.* 3. **What is the typical work schedule for this position?** *The position is 32 hours a week, typically working 8-hour day shifts. The exact schedule may vary depending on the needs of the department.* 4. **What opportunities are there for professional development?** *Sanford Health offers a variety of professional development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement, continuing education credits, and leadership training programs.* 5. **What is the culture like at Sanford Health?** *Sanford Health is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment that values teamwork, collaboration, and innovation.* 6. **What type of training is provided for new RN Navigators?** *New RN Navigators receive comprehensive training, including orientation to Sanford Health, training on interventional radiology procedures, and ongoing mentorship from experienced colleagues.* 7. **What is the patient population served in this role?** *The RN Navigator serves patients undergoing a variety of interventional radiology procedures, including those related to cardiology, oncology, and vascular disease.* 8. **What is the dress code for this position?** *The dress code is professional attire, typically scrubs or business casual clothing.* 9. **What are the opportunities for advancement in this role?** *RN Navigators can advance to senior roles, become clinical nurse specialists, or pursue management positions.* 10. **Does Sanford Health offer relocation assistance?** *Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. Please inquire with the hiring manager for more information.*