Triage Nurse - Hybrid Remote

Summary of Role

The Triage Nurse facilitates communication between patients, providers, care teams, and referral sources. Obtaining precise and accurate information from patients is critical to this role. The Triage Nurse serves as a liaison between patients and clinical staff, working closely with OAW healthcare professionals to ensure efficient patient care through telephone triage, patient education, and care coordination. Following an onsite training period, this position operates primarily in a remote work environment with regular onsite attendance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess and evaluate telephone calls from patients, family, or other healthcare providers to direct patients toward the appropriate level of service required.
• Collaborate with physicians, PAs, and other staff to plan and execute process changes that improve patient care services and patient management.
• Follows physician-approved clinical protocols and triage standards, facilitating all paperwork and related tasks.
• Enters imaging order per physician instruction to expedite patient care.
• Reviews post-operative instructions and addresses patient concerns and answers questions related to their future care.
• Upholds patient confidentiality; complies with HIPAA and compliance guidelines established by the practice.
• Preserve accurate and detailed patient records in compliance with organizational policies and regulations.
• Stay current with advancements in orthopaedic nursing practices through continuing education and professional development.
• Promotes a safe and secure working environment.
• When working in a remote setting, performing all assigned duties and tasks efficiently.
• Perform phlebotomy and other clinical support duties when working onsite, as needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Nursing degree is preferred.
• CPR/AED Certification required.
• At least two years of experience in an outpatient clinic setting is preferred.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. 
• Experience communicating and interacting with physicians, contributing in a team environment, and working with patients in a professional and ethical manner.
• Working knowledge of EPIC or other equivalent electronic medical records.
• Strong interpersonal skills and phone etiquette with a professional and courteous manner required.
• Acute organizational and time management abilities, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Cooperative and professional behavior toward patients, peers, providers, management, and visitors.
• Ability to work independently and maintain productivity in a remote work environment while adhering to departmental performance and communication standards.

Physical and Mental Demands

Communication Skills

Clear and effective communication with patients, families, and the healthcare team. Active listening to understand patient concerns, symptoms, and needs. Accurate and thorough documentation in electronic health records (EHR) and patient notes.

Mathematical Skills

Interpreting data from diagnostic tests and patient records. Using mathematical reasoning to determine appropriate interventions and care plans. Keeping track of patient statistics, outcomes, and metrics for quality improvement.

Judgment and Decision Making

Making informed decisions about patient care based on clinical guidelines and patient assessment. Ability to prioritize tasks and patient needs effectively. Making decisions with ethical standards and patient rights. Adjusting decisions and care plans based on evolving patient conditions and new information.

Software and Technology

Understand and correctly use medical and insurance terminology to communicate effectively with professionals and accurately document information. Navigate electronic health records (EHR) and insurance verification systems, communicating findings and updates through these platforms. Have the capability to use EPIC and Microsoft Office, and various authorizations platforms in everyday work proficiently.

Work Environment

This position follows a hybrid work model. During the initial training period, the Triage Nurse will work onsite to complete orientation and competency training. Upon successful completion of training, the position will transition to primarily remote work, with an expectation of working onsite approximately one day per week and as needed for meetings, training, or departmental support. Onsite responsibilities may include blood draws and other clinical support duties. Must be able to push/pull/lift up to 50 pounds.