North Central Section of the AUA, Inc.

This incumbent practices as a Nursing Assistant (NA) in the Operative Care Division (OCD). The incumbent works directly with nursing staff and providers to coordinate patient flow throughout OCD by receiving and directing patients from check in to the surgery unit. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. b. Education or Training. One year above high school with courses related to the NA occupation. Completion of an intensive, specialized, occupation-related course of study of less than one year as a nursing assistant may also meet in full the experience requirements for GS-3. Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates. GS-3 [NA] (Entry Level) Experience [and] Education . None beyond the basic requirements. GS-4 NA (a) Experience. One year of specialized experience as a [NA] or experience in another medical field (licensed practical nurse, health technician, hospital corpsman, etc.), performing technical and nursing skills requiring knowledge of the human physical and emotional states, therapeutic communication, and technical skills required for basic and intermediate treatments; OR, (b) Education. Successful completion of 2 years above high school in an accredited institution with courses related to nursing care, health care or in a field of study appropriate to the specialization of the position, such as education in a program for psychology, psychiatric, or operating room technicians; AND (c) Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: 1. Ability to provide a range of patient/resident care and contribute to the completion of the nurse care plan and recovery of patients/residents. 2. Ability to observe patients/residents' or resident's physical or emotional status and refer deviations and/or problems to supervisor in a timely manner. 3. Ability to properly use equipment, materials and supplies in simple diagnostic and treatment procedures such as bladder scan, continuous passive motion device, blood glucose monitoring machine, specimen collection, etc. 4. Ability to communicate effectively with patients/residents, their families and other health professionals. GS-5 NA (Full Performance Level) (a) Experience. One year of progressively responsible assignments and experience equivalent to the GS-4 level which demonstrates knowledge, skills, and abilities that are directly related to the specific assignment. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the professional KSAs in subparagraph (c) below; OR, (b) Education. Successful completion of a 4-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor's degree that included 24 semester hours of courses related to health care or possession of a bachelor's degree; AND (c) Demonstrated KSAs 1. Ability to assist in the full range of nursing care to patients/residents with physical and/or behavioral problems in a hospital, long term care or outpatient setting under the direction of a Registered Nurse and/or Licensed Vocational Nurse/Licensed Practical Nurse. 2. Ability to communicate orally with patients/residents, families, interdisciplinary team and other personnel. This includes serving as a preceptor to new NAs by assisting with the coordination of their orientation and overseeing/assessing their practical experience while in a clinical setting. 3. Ability to recognize and react to emergent patient/resident care situations and intervene while waiting for assistance. For example, recognizing need for basic life support, controlling bleeding and assisting with behavior crisis, etc. References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/81 PART II APPENDIX G46 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-5. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of to GS-3. GS-5 Physical Requirements: This position requires visual acuity, keen hearing, clear distinctive speech, and manual dexterity. This position requires potentially long periods of continued walking, standing, stooping, sitting, bending, pulling, and pushing. Transferring patients and objects may be required. Mechanical patient lifts are provided. The incumbent may be exposed to patients with active infections and contaminated materials and may be required to wear protective clothing in certain situations. The incumbent may occasionally be exposed to patients who are combative secondary to delirium, dementia, or psychiatric disorders. The incumbent must be a mature, flexible, sensible individual capable of working effectively in stressful situations, and be able to shift priorities based on patient needs. If applicable, the incumbent may be required to complete screening or testing through Employee Health. The incumbent who provides care in other off-site locations may be required to drive and/or ride in GSA-vehicles. ["The NA is accountable for: - Providing direct patient care as assigned within OCD to include but not limited to: patient check in and vital\nsign measurement; assisting with ADL's including personal hygiene, physical comfort, nutrition, elimination,\nprevention of skin breakdown, safety, positioning for procedures/surgery, transport and post recovery care.\n- Communicating with patients and families, identifying and responding appropriately to patient needs;\naddressing educational needs, increased anxiety, procedural knowledge deficits, and personal and privacy needs.\n- Performing standardized treatment procedures as directed per medical staff including: clipping, ECG\nmonitoring, bladder scanning, and Accuchecks.\n- Obtaining, labeling and transporting time sensitive specimens to the lab.\n- Assisting surgical staff with the operation of equipment to include locating equipment, setting up equipment,\nand reporting malfunctioning equipment to ensure safety for patients and staff.\n- Collaborating with the OCD and interdisciplinary teams.\n- Communicating abnormalities or observed Work Schedule: Day tour; hours variable per service needs\nTelework: Not available\nVirtual: This is not a virtual position.\nRelocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized\nPermanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized\nFinancial Disclosure Report: Not required"]