RN Nurse Navigator – Full Time
Job Summary
The Nurse Navigator will assume responsibility and accountability for the entire care pathway of orthopedic and/or spine patients, serving as a liaison throughout the continuum of care and collaborating with surgeons, anesthesiologists, pre‑op, PACU, OR staff, PT providers, and facility leadership. The position also involves data collection, analysis, and reporting of clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Position Responsibilities
- Work closely with the multidisciplinary team to develop and implement each patient’s care plan through assessment of physical, educational, and psychosocial needs.
- Serve as an essential link between patients and all other healthcare providers.
- Act as a resource to patients throughout their continuum of care, from pre‑op to post‑discharge.
- Contact patients to schedule preadmission testing as ordered by the physician (lab work, chest X‑ray, EKG, CT, hospitalist medical clearance appointments).
- Ensure test results are relayed to the ordering physician.
- Obtain health history and medication history from patients before surgery.
- Review records for appropriate orders, History and Physical, applicable clearances, labs, X‑ray, and EKG to assess patient health status prior to surgery.
- Use nursing judgment to refer high‑risk surgical patients to a hospitalist for review when necessary.
- Provide preoperative instructions to patients during the prescreening phone call.
- Facilitate scheduling of the pre‑operative education class for the patient and care partner.
- Conduct patient rounds on assigned patients at least once during the hospital stay.
- Facilitate scheduled follow‑up calls to promote compliance with discharge instructions and risk mitigation, and confirm physical therapy and post‑op visits.
- Model patient‑centered care behaviors and passion for the patient experience.
- Ensure all necessary follow‑up/action items are completed, reported, and documented to close the loop.
- Work as a team member, encouraging and promoting a culture of caring.
- Participate in QAPI activities, PROM reporting, and EDGE requirements.
Qualifications
- Current Arizona license to practice as a Registered Nurse.
- BSN preferred.
- BLS required; ACLS preferred.
- Minimum 3‑5 years of experience in a hospital setting with surgical patients; orthopedic and spine experience preferred.
- Passion for patient education.
- Clinical expertise to apply sound judgment for optimal patient care.
- Strong communication skills to instruct patients, family members, and staff.
- Self‑directed with strong interpersonal, organizational, and computer literacy skills.
- Adaptable to changes in work assignments related to schedule and patient needs.
- Ability to participate in data collection, analysis, and reporting.
- Knowledge of relevant equipment, systems, and policies to promote quality outcomes.
- Proficiency in utilization review, care coordination, transfer coordination, discharge planning, or case management.
- Team‑player with professional conduct and appearance.
Benefits
- Health, Dental & Vision Coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Company Paid Holidays
- Employee Assistance Programs
- Health Savings Account / Flexible Spending Account
- Education Assistance