The Registered Nurse (U) maintains accurate and complete health care records and reports. They are responsible for conducting medical screenings of all incoming residents, scheduling and performing daily sick calls for juvenile residents. The nurse administers medications, monitors side effects and reactions, prescribes assistive medical devices, and records patient vital signs and medical information. This position works at the Youth Services Centers and the Community Mental Health Clinic.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducts medical screenings of all incoming residents.
• Schedules and performs daily sick call for juvenile residents.
• Administers prescribed medications and treatments according to approved nursing techniques and the physician’s orders.
• Maintains and updates appropriate databases to document pharmaceutical and laboratory protocols, clinic activities, and other health maintenance records.
• Monitors and reports on medical medications to ensure compliance with federal, state, and other applicable guidelines.
• Keeps medication and other health-related records.
• Represents the County as an expert witness in court cases.
• Advises staff on residents’ medical conditions and/or special dietary requirements.
• Provides first aid and medical care in emergencies.
• Determines when to call a physician and assists during patient examinations.
• Draws blood and performs smear and culture tests.
• Assists staff with telephone triage at both facilities.

*The above information is intended to outline the general nature and scope of the duties required for this position. It is not an exhaustive list and may vary depending on specific job assignments and responsibilities. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate’s Degree from an accredited School of Nursing.
• Registered Nurse (RN) license from the State of New Mexico.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

The offer of this Bernalillo County position requires compliance with the following:

1. Employee must successfully complete the County's post-offer medical examination.
2. Employee must comply with the County's safety guidelines.
3. Employee must pass a background investigation.
4. Must have a current certification in CPR.
5. Employee must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico driver's license.

WORKING CONDITIONS

1. All work is performed indoors in a temperature-controlled environment.
2. Duties are performed on an even, usually dry surface, which may be concrete, tile or carpet.
3. Work hazards include handling of medical wastes, cultured-slide products, blood or body wastes, and/or pathogenic materials; possibility of personal injury from violent residents.
4. Duties are performed in a locked facility.
5. Employee may be required to do shift work.
6. Employee must be able to work at different facilities.
7. Work hazards or potential work hazards include working in assignments and areas possibly exposed to infectious disease which require the use of an OSHA approved respirator.

EQUIPMENT, TOOLS AND MATERIALS

1. Utilizes diagnostic and medical laboratory equipment in performance of duties, such as stethoscope, ophthalmoscope, otoscope, microscope, centrifuge, incubator and sterilization equipment; rubber gloves, radio, and keys required to function in a locked facility.
2. Materials and products handled include various medications and medical supplies, medical forms and office supplies.