Nurse duties and responsibilities
Nurses perform many tasks that help patients in healthcare facilities recover quickly. Duties and responsibilities of a Nurse may include:
- Performing health assessments of patients to identify healthcare interventions
- Using appropriate assessment tools regarding clients well-being and care
- Monitoring, addressing, and documenting the symptoms and changes in patients conditions
- Operating and using medical equipment
- Assisting Doctors and Surgeons in surgery and other medical procedures
- Working with Doctors to develop and implement a discharge planning process for patients
- Teaching and counselling patients or family members on health-related issues while collaborating with other healthcare professionals
- Administering vaccinations
Nurse skills and qualifications
A successful Nurse has various prerequisite skills and qualifications required for the duties performed in this job, including:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written
- Ability to maintain composure to cope with emergencies and distressing situations
- Strong ability to maintain safety, quality and infection control standards
- Strong knowledge of medical procedures, equipment, and medical facilities
- Ability to perform basic nursing duties and responsibilities
- Ability to work in stressful environments and under pressure
- Excellent time management and organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Nurse experience requirements
When looking through resumes for a Nurse, it is best to look for an applicant who has experience working in the same environment or in the same speciality as the job description is advertising for. For general Nursing positions in a hospital or healthcare centre, candidates should ideally have one to two years experience. However, this isn’t necessary for entry-level positions as long as the candidate has completed their education and registered with their local nursing association. If the position calls for work with specific diseases or a particular department, such as geriatrics, then finding a Nurse with at least two years of relevant experience is beneficial.
Nurse training and education
A Nurse candidate needs to have completed a university, college or other approved nursing program in Canada (or international equivalent). A successful candidate also needs to be registered with the nursing association in their province or territory. For nurses working with specific diseases or a specific department, then a master’s or doctoral degree that focuses on those areas is an asset for candidates.
Nurse salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, average pay for a Nurse in Canada is $33.49 per hour. This can vary depending on the employee’s previous experience, academic background, location, or company that is hiring.
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