The Triage Nurse (RN) is responsible for assessing patient concerns and medical needs over the phone or in person, prioritizing care based on the urgency of symptoms, and providing guidance on appropriate next steps. The Triage Nurse ensures patients receive timely, safe, and effective care while maintaining excellent communication with patients, physicians, and other healthcare team members.

1. Patient Assessment:
   • Conduct telephonic triage or in-person assessments to evaluate the urgency of patient symptoms and medical concerns.
   • Utilize clinical protocols and guidelines to assess patient symptoms, medical history, and risk factors.
   • Gather relevant medical information, including vital signs, history of illness, medications, allergies, and previous treatments.
2. Clinical Decision Making:
   • Provide evidence-based recommendations based on assessment, including over-the-counter medication suggestions, home care instructions, or directing patients to seek immediate medical care.
   • Assist in determining whether a physician should see a patient, be referred to an emergency department, or be scheduled for an appointment in the clinic.
   • Escalate critical or complex cases to a physician or healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
3. Care Coordination:
   • Schedule follow-up appointments and diagnostic tests as needed based on the triage process.
   • Educate patients about their conditions, self-care measures, medications, and when to seek further medical attention.
   • Ensure accurate documentation of patient interactions, assessments, and recommendations in the electronic health record (EHR).
4. Patient Education:
   • Provide patients with information about their condition and treatment options.
   • Educate patients on preventive health measures, post-procedure care, and managing chronic conditions.
   • Offer emotional support and address patient concerns or anxieties about their health issues.
5. Collaboration with Healthcare Team:
   • Work closely with physicians, nurse practitioners, and medical assistants to ensure seamless patient care.
   • Communicate patient concerns, outcomes of triage assessments, and changes in condition with other healthcare team members.
   • Assist in managing patient flow, ensuring that urgent cases are prioritized and that routine cases are addressed in a timely manner.
6. Quality and Safety:
   • Adhere to clinical protocols and standards to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality care.
   • Participate in continuous quality improvement initiatives and provide feedback on workflow processes and clinical practices.
7. Maintain knowledge of current medical practices, guidelines, and emerging healthcare trends.
8. Because of the Tribe's commitment to community service and the well-being of its members, each employee may be expected to perform a wide range of office and field duties from time to time. Such duties may or may not be related to their regular responsibilities.

• Current Washington State Registered Nurse license
• 7 years of experience as a registered nurse
• 3 years of current experience in a primary care or urgent care setting
• BLS (Basic Life Support) certification

Preferred:

• Additional triage or telephone triage nursing certifications

Skills:

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient in using electronic health record systems.
• Ability to prioritize tasks in high-pressure situations.
• Solid knowledge of clinical protocols and guidelines.
• Competence in patient education and care coordination.

Ability:

• Accurately assess patient symptoms and urgency.
• Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Educate patients on preventive care and treatment.
• Maintain professionalism under stressful situations.
• Adhere to strict confidentiality and privacy regulations.
• Document patient interactions with precision and clarity.

Knowledge:

• Comprehensive understanding of triage processes and protocols.
• Familiarity with HIPAA regulations and compliance standards.
• Knowledge of current medical practices and trends.
• Expertise in patient assessment and decision-making.
• Proficiency in chronic condition management and education.
• Awareness of cultural sensitivity in patient care.

This position requires the ability to perform frequent patient assessments, including prolonged periods of standing, walking, and sitting. The nurse must have sufficient manual dexterity to operate medical equipment and a computer. Occasional lifting or moving of patients or equipment up to 25 pounds may be necessary. Visual acuity and hearing capability are required for patient interaction and the assessment of symptoms. The role demands the ability to manage stress effectively and maintain focus in high-pressure situations. Emotional resilience is essential to provide compassionate care and support to patients experiencing distress.