The Patient Flow Coordinator, RN (PFC, RN) reflects the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Medicine, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards. The PFC, RN is a skilled professional nurse with competence in a specialized area of nursing. Works cooperatively and communicates effectively within a framework to actively promote holistic care for patients. Demonstrates self-direction and initiative in the role of nurse clinician, educator, and consultant. Provides direct patient care and/or consultation using in-depth clinical knowledge and skills in area of expertise. Promotes customer service and communication between the healthcare team and patient. The Patient Flow Coordinator should work autonomously within the guidelines set by ICC medical leadership and efficiently in a fast-paced environment. The Patient Flow Coordinator role is performed from within designated Northwestern Medicine ICC locations and requires in-clinic orientation. This position will work 12-hour shifts and include weekend and holiday requirements.
Responsibilities:
- Maintain a safe and clean work environment. Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations. Report deficiencies to supervisor immediately. Assist in rectifying deficiencies as requested. Assume responsibility for and supervision of the appropriate care of medical equipment.
- For each patient, perform a comprehensive assessment of the chief complaint and patient needs utilizing the nursing process. Based on findings, seek solutions and offer opinions to physicians and other health care providers. Document all nursing assessments in the patient's medical record. Ensure that all documentation is clear, complete and legible. Maintain patient confidentiality at all times. Understand and uphold the protocols and procedures for release of patient medical information.
- Demonstrate clinical competency and independently perform routine nursing duties including phlebotomy, medication administration, measurement of vital signs, preparation of lab specimens, etc.
- Interpret and define abnormalities detected in tests and procedures, then take appropriate remedial action. Document all interventions in the patient medical record as appropriate.
- Communicate and collaborate with other clinical and administrative departments in order to coordinate appropriate patient care, as needed.
- Communicate with outside agencies or facilities as appropriate.
- Triage and prioritize incoming telephone calls and results using clinical assessment skills and service standards. Communicate results/plan of care with patients by phone or MyChart per department procedure. Document all assessments in the patient medical record as appropriate.
- Manage urgent/emergent medical situations as appropriate and in accordance with the organization's protocols for medical emergencies and cardiac arrests. Obtain and/or operate emergency equipment according to relevant standards.
- Serve as a resource for staff and physicians for daily problem solving and decision-making. Maintain a consistent alertness to patient care needs and take a proactive approach to address/resolve issues. Delegate appropriate tasks according to Illinois law and organizational protocols.
- Comply with all existing policies and procedures related to patient care. Make recommendations to management regarding new policies and procedures that may improve the patient experience. Assure that new policies and procedures are implemented in a timely manner.
- Initiate and coordinate patient education. Ensure that patients understand educational materials and can exhibit return demonstration when pertinent.
- Serve as a resource and role model for team members by providing feedback and assisting with clinical education.
- Other duties as assigned
BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS
- Ability to function independently and as part of the ICC team
- Excellent at multitasking in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent critical thinking and high tolerance for ambiguity
- Responds effectively to changes in ICC workflow due to volume, use of new technology, staffing, volume control, or closures.