Want to do more nursing

[yrottler]

I am a RN (ADN), working on my BSN. I have been working in a doctors office (pediatrics) for many years. I started as an LPN, then RN. The office I work in has four practitioners. We are divided into "front" office (reception) and "back office" (nursing). We have only one RN, one LPN, and several medical assistants. I am looking for ways to enhance my position, and bring about RN responsibilities, above what the other nursing staff does. Does anyone have suggestions? Can you please describe your job duties if you work in an office as an RN? It is not that I am not busy, I have plenty to do. I like the office I am in. But I find myself sitting at the desk doing most of the referrals and phone calls. It is a good job, but I want to grow and learn more where I am and not have to go to another facility. Please give input. Thanks.

[roser13, ASN, RN]

I guess it depends upon what type of healthcare takes place in your office. When I worked for an orthopedic surgeon, I mixed injections, did basic health history assessments (the doc would follow behind and listen to heart/lungs & sign history), determined the need for any type of clearance (cardiac, neuro, etc.), and after a year or so of observation & training, started to do some initial assessment & testing of the patient's affected limb. My biggest role, however, was patient education, both about the diagnosis and the surgical procedure & healing process.

Oops - just realized you work in peds. My post is entirely worthless to you

[dudette10, MSN, RN]

One of nursing's biggest roles is education, and there is plenty of that to be done in a pediatrician's office, I would think. What about developing and implementing an education program for at-risk young mothers? What about developing education and handouts about vaccinations? What about developing and implementing a program for the pubescent patients about normal changes in their bodies, good nutrition, dealing with acne, STDs? The opportunities are endless for a go-getter, and selling it to the practitioners would be easy. It increases the wellness of the patients, and it would increase positive word of mouth and patient referrals. "My peds office is great. There is a nurse who gives a lot of information to help us at each visit. I've never seen that before!"

[dudette10, MSN, RN]

What about follow up phone calls for new diagnoses of chronic conditions, like asthma, allergies, or Type I diabetes? Parents are often scared and have lots of questions re:these new diagnoses and would appreciate a follow up call for support and getting questions answered.