Assistant Head Nurse

Reporting to the Unit Manager and Patient Care Manager/designate, the Assistant Head Nurse (AHN) provides effective clinical leadership and functional supervision in addition to front line Registered Nurse duties. AHN is expected to act as a resource and support for nursing staff during complex procedures. Other expectations include attendance and involvement on committees, i.e. standards of practice, Quality Improvement, Operational Procurement and Equipment Committee (OPEC). Other responsibilities include assuming charge nurse duties when required and sharing in the call responsibilities of the Surgical Suite. Fosters team/group effectiveness by modelling excellent practice and interpersonal relationships, identifies, communicates and seeks to resolve staff issues. As a member of a multidisciplinary team, the AHN is responsible for the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of patient care. Assumes responsibility and acts as a resource for skills assessment, staff assessment, staff development, daily operative planning and assisting in arranging equipment maintenance. The AHN refers issues of financial, or human resource nature to the Unit Manager or Patient Care Manager/designate for their guidance and/or resolution. The AHN participates in performance appraisals by conducting formal and informal skills assessments to determine clinical competences. Participates in researching, developing and updating educational materials and programs.

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).

The surgical suite is a high stress fast paced environment and there is little opportunity for nurses to provide support to colleagues and at times does not lend itself to a good mentoring environment. This position provides an extra level of support during busy and high stress times which then increases staff retention and job satisfaction. The AHN is a resource nurse that provides consistent, orthopedics, plastics general surgery and gynecology surgeons a liaison person. Must have perioperative course completed and minimum of 5 years of acute care nursing experience in a perioperative environment is required. Expert knowledge of nursing care standards/protocols is required.

Possess leadership capabilities, the ability to facilitate groups and manage change and effectively facilitate learning in a positive manner.