Assistant Head Nurse

The Assistant Head Nurse - Clinical Resource Nurse (CRN) is a key support role for front-line clinicians in developing clinical and leadership competency across multiple programmatic areas in rural acute care sites. Under the direction of the acute care manager, the CRN works in concert with the Clinical Nurse Educators (CNE), AHN and/or charge nurse to support staff in developing proficiency in all facets of rural nursing thereby optimizing team function. Activities include: developing site or geographic specific content; educating; developing local orientation; assessing skill mix, staff ability, and individual developmental opportunities in daily clinical operations; planning and implementing key initiatives and activities to support and enhance the effectiveness of the multidisciplinary team, and evaluating the effectiveness of these activities and supports to benefit the team with a focus on confidence, competence, retention, and sustainability. The CRN utilizes the nursing process to support clinical practice consistent with professional practice standards/guidelines, policies and procedures, treatment guidelines and current research. The position involves participation and leadership in program development, implementation and evaluation and provides clinical leadership on departmental committees as needed/expected.

As an Assistant Head Nurse, you will be responsible for staff assignments, patient flow and acting as a role model, clinical resource and advocate for nursing staff. In addition to providing frontline nursing care, as required, you will take a leadership role in the promotion of quality patient care and the implementation of operational priorities. Your in-depth knowledge and skills, advanced judgment and clinical experience, will assist in providing solutions for complex health care issues at all levels with patients, interprofessional teams, administrators and policy makers. You will play a key role in providing safe, quality patient and family centered care while reflecting the shared vision and values of AHS.

Completion of an accredited nursing education program. Active or eligible for registration and practice permit with the College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA). Current Basic Cardiac Life Support - Health Care Provider (BCLS-HCP).

Current experience in rural emergency nursing or rural teaching is required for the CRN role. Applicants must demonstrate recent and relevant practice in a rural healthcare or educational setting. Although this requisition is titled as an Assistant Head Nurse position, the actual role is that of a Clinical Resource Nurse. This position does not include responsibilities related to staff assignment or patient flow that is noted in the position summaries. The successful applicant should demonstrate strong team-building skills and the ability to mentor new and struggling staff-these qualities will be considered assets. Further details regarding the scope and expectations of this role will be discussed during the interview process.

More than 5 years of current rural emergency nursing care experience. Demonstrated passion for rural nursing and development of staff. Evidence of current and ongoing leadership, research into best practice and change management. Education background; experience with principles of Adult Learning. Excellent priority setting ability and awareness of clinical urgency in practice situations.