## Registered Nurse, Surgical, Level 7 - Weirton Medical Center (WMCH) ### Role Overview The Registered Nurse (RN) in the Surgical department at Weirton Medical Center (WMCH) plays a vital role in delivering comprehensive care to patients undergoing surgical procedures. This Level 7 position requires a seasoned professional with a strong clinical background, excellent critical-thinking abilities, and a passion for patient advocacy. The RN will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals, to ensure the highest standards of patient safety and optimal surgical outcomes. The Surgical RN is responsible for assessing patients pre-operatively, monitoring them during surgery, and providing post-operative care. This includes administering medications, managing pain, educating patients and their families, and ensuring a smooth transition throughout the surgical process. The RN also plays a key role in preventing complications and promoting healing. ### A Day in the Life of a Surgical RN A typical day for a Surgical RN at WMCH may involve the following: * **Pre-operative Assessment:** Evaluating patients' medical history, current medications, and overall health status to identify potential risks and develop a personalized care plan. * **Surgical Preparation:** Preparing the operating room, ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies are available, and assisting the surgical team as needed. * **Intra-operative Monitoring:** Closely monitoring patients' vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, during surgical procedures. Administering medications and fluids as prescribed by the physician. * **Post-operative Care:** Providing immediate post-operative care, including pain management, wound care, and monitoring for complications. Educating patients and their families on post-operative instructions and discharge planning. * **Collaboration:** Communicating effectively with the surgical team, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other nurses, to ensure seamless coordination of care. * **Documentation:** Maintaining accurate and timely documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes in the electronic health record. * **Patient Education:** Providing comprehensive education to patients and their families on surgical procedures, post-operative care, and potential complications. * **Emergency Response:** Responding quickly and effectively to emergency situations, such as cardiac arrest or respiratory distress, in the operating room or post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). ### Why Weirton, West Virginia? Weirton, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to big-city amenities. Nestled in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, Weirton provides a welcoming community, affordable living, and a variety of recreational opportunities. * **Cost of Living:** Weirton's cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle. * **Outdoor Recreation:** The surrounding area boasts abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. Nearby state parks and forests offer stunning scenery and opportunities for exploration. * **Community Spirit:** Weirton is known for its strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere. Residents enjoy local events, festivals, and a close-knit environment. * **Proximity to Pittsburgh:** Weirton is conveniently located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offering easy access to major cultural attractions, sporting events, and shopping destinations. * **Family-Friendly Environment:** Weirton offers a safe and family-friendly environment with excellent schools and numerous opportunities for children to participate in extracurricular activities. ### Career Path for a Surgical RN at WVU Medicine WVU Medicine provides a clear and supportive career path for Registered Nurses, allowing them to advance their skills and knowledge over time. Here's a possible trajectory: * **Level 7 Registered Nurse:** The entry point for experienced RNs in the Surgical department. This level focuses on providing direct patient care, developing clinical expertise, and contributing to team goals. * **Level 8 Registered Nurse:** With additional experience and professional development, RNs can advance to Level 8, taking on more complex patient assignments and mentoring junior staff. * **Charge Nurse:** Charge Nurses oversee the daily operations of the Surgical unit, providing leadership and guidance to the nursing team. They are responsible for patient flow, staffing assignments, and ensuring optimal patient care. * **Nurse Manager:** Nurse Managers have overall responsibility for the Surgical department, including budget management, staff development, and quality improvement initiatives. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare leaders to achieve departmental goals. * **Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS):** CNSs are advanced practice nurses who provide expert clinical consultation and education to nurses and other healthcare professionals. They play a key role in implementing evidence-based practices and improving patient outcomes. * **Nurse Practitioner (NP):** NPs are advanced practice nurses who can diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and provide comprehensive primary care services. They work collaboratively with physicians to provide high-quality patient care. ### Salary and Benefits The salary for a Registered Nurse in the Surgical department at Weirton Medical Center is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. The estimated salary range for this position is $65,000 to $95,000 per year. WVU Medicine also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision coverage * **Paid Time Off:** Vacation, sick leave, and holidays * **Retirement Plan:** Employer-matched 401(k) or 403(b) * **Life Insurance:** Basic and supplemental life insurance options * **Disability Coverage:** Short-term and long-term disability insurance * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Assistance with continuing education expenses * **Employee Assistance Program (EAP):** Confidential counseling and support services * **Wellness Programs:** Initiatives to promote employee health and well-being * **Employee Discounts:** Discounts on WVU Medicine services and other local businesses ### WVU Medicine Culture WVU Medicine is committed to providing a supportive and collaborative work environment for its employees. The organization values teamwork, respect, and a commitment to excellence in patient care. WVU Medicine fosters a culture of continuous learning and professional development, encouraging employees to grow and advance in their careers. WVU Medicine also prioritizes employee well-being, offering programs and resources to support work-life balance and promote a healthy lifestyle. The organization is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. ### How to Apply To apply for the Registered Nurse, Surgical, Level 7 position at Weirton Medical Center (WMCH), please visit the WVU Medicine Careers website and submit your application online. Be sure to include a cover letter and resume highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. **What are the essential requirements for this position?** * A current Registered Nurse license in West Virginia or eNLC multi-state license and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 30 days of hire are essential. 2. **What experience is required?** * One (1) year of nursing experience is required. 3. **What are the core duties and responsibilities of this role?** * The core duties include modifying patient care plans, utilizing evidence-based practice, delegating tasks appropriately, and providing patient education. 4. **What opportunities for professional development are available?** * WVU Medicine offers various professional development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs. 5. **What is the work environment like at WVU Medicine?** * WVU Medicine provides a supportive and collaborative work environment that values teamwork and respect. 6. **What benefits does WVU Medicine offer?** * WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. 7. **Is relocation assistance available for this position?** * Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. 8. **Is there a sign-on bonus for this position?** * Sign-on bonuses may be offered for certain positions, depending on market conditions. 9. **How does WVU Medicine support work-life balance?** * WVU Medicine offers programs and resources to support work-life balance, such as flexible spending accounts and dependent care assistance programs. 10. **What is the career path for a Surgical RN at WVU Medicine?** * Career advancement opportunities include Charge Nurse, Nurse Manager, Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Nurse Practitioner positions.