Registered Nurse Medical Surgical Unit at WVU Medicine - Berkeley Medical Center

Role Overview

The Registered Nurse (RN) in the Medical Surgical Unit at Berkeley Medical Center (BMC) is a vital member of the healthcare team. This role is responsible for delivering high-quality nursing care to patients undergoing medical and surgical treatments. The RN utilizes the nursing process – assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation – to meet the unique needs of each patient. This position requires a strong clinical foundation, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to patient safety and well-being. This role requires the incumbent to be accountable for their actions, possess competent clinical knowledge and abilities, and use sound nursing judgment when providing care for themselves and for any healthcare professionals to whom they may delegate responsibilities, all with the goal of providing the best possible patient outcomes.

A Day in the Life

As a Registered Nurse in the Medical Surgical Unit, your day will be dynamic and rewarding. Here’s a glimpse into your daily routine: * **7:00 AM - 7:30 AM:** Receive handoff report from the outgoing shift, reviewing patient conditions, medications, and any critical updates. * **7:30 AM - 8:30 AM:** Conduct initial patient assessments, including vital signs, pain levels, and overall physical and emotional state. Document findings in the electronic health record (EHR). * **8:30 AM - 9:30 AM:** Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians. Monitor patients for any adverse reactions and document accordingly. * **9:30 AM - 10:30 AM:** Assist patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. Provide comfort and support. * **10:30 AM - 11:30 AM:** Collaborate with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans. * **11:30 AM - 12:30 PM:** Provide patient education on their condition, treatment plan, and discharge instructions. Use the teach-back method to ensure understanding. * **12:30 PM - 1:30 PM:** Lunch break. * **1:30 PM - 2:30 PM:** Perform wound care, including dressing changes and assessment of healing progress. * **2:30 PM - 3:30 PM:** Monitor patients for any signs of complications or deterioration. Respond to emergency situations as needed. * **3:30 PM - 4:30 PM:** Document all patient care activities, including assessments, interventions, and outcomes, in the EHR. * **4:30 PM - 5:30 PM:** Prepare patients for discharge, ensuring they have all necessary medications, instructions, and follow-up appointments. * **5:30 PM - 6:00 PM:** Collaborate with the healthcare team to update patient care plans and address any outstanding issues. * **6:00 PM - 7:00 PM:** Provide handoff report to the incoming shift, ensuring a smooth transition of care.

Why Berkeley Medical Center?

Berkeley Medical Center, part of the WVU Medicine system, is a leading healthcare provider in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. Choosing BMC means joining a team that values: * **Patient-Centered Care:** BMC is committed to providing compassionate, individualized care to every patient. * **Professional Growth:** WVU Medicine offers numerous opportunities for professional development and career advancement. * **Teamwork:** BMC fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment where teamwork is essential. * **Community Involvement:** BMC is actively involved in the community, offering outreach programs and health education initiatives. * **State-of-the-Art Technology:** You'll have access to cutting edge technology to assist in your care delivery. * **Commitment to Excellence**: WVU Medicine and Berkeley Medical Center adhere to the highest standards in healthcare practices.

Why Martinsburg, West Virginia?

Martinsburg, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. It’s a great place to live and work, with: * **Affordable Living:** The cost of living in Martinsburg is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for young professionals and families. * **Rich History:** Martinsburg has a rich history, with numerous historical sites and landmarks to explore. * **Outdoor Recreation:** The surrounding area offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and fishing. * **Cultural Attractions:** Martinsburg boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with theaters, museums, and galleries. * **Proximity to Major Cities:** Martinsburg is within driving distance of major cities like Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland.

Career Path

As a Registered Nurse at WVU Medicine, you'll have access to a variety of career advancement opportunities. Potential career paths include: * **Charge Nurse:** Oversee the daily operations of the nursing unit and provide leadership to the nursing staff. * **Clinical Nurse Specialist:** Provide expert clinical knowledge and consultation in a specialized area of nursing. * **Nurse Manager:** Manage the overall operations of a nursing unit, including staffing, budgeting, and quality improvement. * **Nurse Educator:** Develop and implement educational programs for nursing staff. * **Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN):** Pursue advanced education to become a Nurse Practitioner or Certified Nurse Midwife. WVU Medicine encourages its employees to reach their full potential and provides support for career development through mentorship programs, continuing education, and leadership training.

Salary and Benefits

WVU Medicine offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including: * Competitive salary commensurate with experience * Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) * Prescription drug coverage * Flexible spending accounts (FSA) * Health savings accounts (HSA) * Life insurance * Disability insurance (short-term and long-term) * Paid time off (PTO) * Paid holidays * Retirement plan with employer matching * Tuition reimbursement * Professional development opportunities * Employee assistance program (EAP) * Wellness programs * Employee discounts

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for all employees. The organization values: * **Respect:** Treating everyone with dignity and respect. * **Integrity:** Adhering to the highest ethical standards. * **Compassion:** Providing empathetic and caring service. * **Accountability:** Taking ownership of actions and outcomes. * **Teamwork:** Collaborating to achieve common goals. WVU Medicine fosters a culture of continuous improvement and encourages employees to share their ideas and contribute to the organization's success.

How to Apply

To apply for the Registered Nurse Medical Surgical Unit position at Berkeley Medical Center, please click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page. Complete the online application and attach your resume and cover letter. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience, and explain why you are interested in working for WVU Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position?** The minimum qualifications include a current Registered Nurse (RN) license in West Virginia or eNLC and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 30 days of hire. **2. Is prior experience required?** Less than 12 months of experience as a registered nurse is required. **3. What is the work schedule for this position?** The work schedule may vary depending on the needs of the unit. It may include day, evening, and night shifts, as well as weekends and holidays. **4. What opportunities are there for professional development?** WVU Medicine offers numerous opportunities for professional development, including continuing education, certification reimbursement, and leadership training. **5. What is the dress code for this position?** The dress code is professional and consistent with hospital policy. Scrubs are typically worn in the Medical Surgical Unit. **6. What is the patient-to-nurse ratio in the Medical Surgical Unit?** The patient-to-nurse ratio varies depending on the acuity of the patients and the staffing levels. WVU Medicine strives to maintain safe and appropriate staffing ratios. **7. What is the orientation process for new nurses?** New nurses receive a comprehensive orientation, including classroom instruction, clinical training, and mentorship from experienced nurses. **8. What is the policy on overtime?** Overtime may be required depending on the needs of the unit. Overtime is compensated in accordance with hospital policy. **9. Are there opportunities for advancement within WVU Medicine?** Yes, WVU Medicine offers numerous opportunities for career advancement. Employees are encouraged to pursue their professional goals and develop their skills. **10. What is the best part about working at WVU Medicine?** The best part about working at WVU Medicine is the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients and the collaborative and supportive work environment.