Travel Nurse RN - Orthopedics - $2,020 per week in Manchester, NH

A Registered Nurse (RN) – Orthopedics provides specialized nursing care to patients with musculoskeletal conditions, including fractures, joint replacements, sports injuries, and spinal disorders. The role involves working with a multidisciplinary team to assess, plan, and implement care for patients undergoing orthopedic procedures or treatments. Orthopedic RNs are involved in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care, as well as patient education, rehabilitation, and pain management. They play a key role in helping patients regain mobility, manage pain, and improve their quality of life.

• Preoperative Care:

  • Assess patients’ medical history, current medications, allergies, and any comorbid conditions before orthopedic surgery or procedures.
  • Educate patients and their families about the surgical procedure, expected outcomes, potential risks, and recovery process.
  • Prepare patients for surgery by ensuring that all preoperative orders are completed, including lab work, imaging, and consent forms.
  • Provide emotional support to patients and address any concerns they may have about the procedure.
  • Ensure that all surgical site markings and documentation are correct before the procedure.

• Intraoperative Care:

  • Assist the surgical team by providing direct care to the patient in the operating room, ensuring the patient is positioned appropriately and safely.
  • Monitor the patient’s vital signs, anesthesia, and overall condition throughout the surgical procedure.
  • Ensure that sterile techniques are followed and that all instruments are accounted for during surgery.
  • Collaborate with the surgical team to manage any intraoperative complications or concerns that arise.

• Postoperative Care:

  • Monitor patients closely in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) or orthopedic recovery area, assessing vital signs, pain levels, and overall recovery.
  • Administer medications, including pain relievers, antibiotics, and anticoagulants, as prescribed, and monitor for any adverse reactions or side effects.
  • Assist with the management of surgical wounds, including dressing changes, cleaning, and monitoring for infection.
  • Educate patients on postoperative care instructions, including movement restrictions, medication management, and signs of complications.
  • Provide mobility support, including assistance with walking, transfers, and the use of assistive devices (e.g., crutches, walkers).
  • Coordinate with physical therapy to ensure the patient begins rehabilitation as appropriate after surgery.

• Pain Management:

  • Assess patients’ pain levels using appropriate pain scales and develop individualized pain management plans.
  • Administer prescribed pain medications and monitor for effectiveness, adjusting the plan as needed.
  • Employ non-pharmacological interventions to manage pain, such as positioning, ice therapy, or relaxation techniques.
  • Educate patients on managing pain at home, including proper use of medications and any lifestyle modifications.

• Patient Education:

  • Provide education to patients and their families regarding orthopedic conditions, surgical procedures, recovery expectations, and rehabilitation plans.
  • Educate patients on joint protection techniques, proper body mechanics, and weight-bearing precautions following surgery.
  • Offer resources for community support groups, physical therapy services, and at-home rehabilitation options.
  • Discuss strategies for preventing further injuries or complications, including lifestyle changes and follow-up care.

• Rehabilitation and Mobility Support:

  • Work with physical therapists to implement and monitor rehabilitation plans aimed at improving mobility, strength, and function.
  • Assist patients in performing prescribed exercises and encourage active participation in the rehabilitation process.
  • Monitor progress and report any concerns regarding the patient's recovery or mobility to the healthcare team.
  • Ensure that assistive devices, such as braces, crutches, or wheelchairs, are properly fitted and used by the patient.

• Coordination and Collaboration:

  • Collaborate with orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive care plans.
  • Communicate with family members and caregivers to ensure they are informed and involved in the patient’s care and recovery process.
  • Coordinate follow-up care, including post-discharge appointments, physical therapy sessions, and home care support.

• Documentation and Compliance:

  • Maintain accurate, up-to-date patient records, including assessments, treatments, medications, and patient progress.
  • Ensure all documentation complies with hospital policies, regulatory standards, and patient confidentiality guidelines (e.g., HIPAA).
  • Monitor and record any adverse reactions, complications, or unexpected events during the patient’s recovery and report to the healthcare team as needed.

• Emergency Response:

  • Respond promptly to orthopedic emergencies, such as fractures, dislocations, or complications from surgery (e.g., blood clots, infections).
  • Provide immediate care in the event of a medical emergency, including stabilizing the patient, administering emergency medications, and notifying the physician.
  • Collaborate with the healthcare team to manage acute situations and develop an appropriate treatment plan.