According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Registered Nursing is one of the top 10 occupations with the largest job growth. Registered Nurses travel jobs and assignments are available in every state and the specialty list continues to grow as well. Room for continuous growth and expanding of your career in the Nursing and healthcare field is a great asset for this type of work as well. Expand your career and your experience and explore our beautiful country at the same time!

Dementia Registered Nurse is a challenging position as it requires managing difficult behaviors and having patience and compassion far beyond the average every day. With the ever increasing aging population today and a greater number of people being diagnosed with dementia there is a great demand for nurses with these skillsets. Specialist Dementia RN will usually hold a registered mental health nursing qualification as well.

One of the most important requirements for the Dementia RN is a high level of assessment skills, especially in the observation of the patient and their surroundings. An excellent understanding of the pathologies involved in dementia is also very important. Every patient is different and many are also suffering from multiple physical illnesses. It requires great skill to assess the needs of the patient from both a clinical and emotional perspective. Medication must be balanced and different types of care considered while observing the needs of the other residents in the home.

Very good listening skills are required as a vital part of the assessment of each patient is getting a comprehensive history and information about their day-to-day life. This can provide valuable in trying to match a care team to the patient. One of the most useful tools in working with these patients is having a good life history if this is possible.

Assess patient’s general condition and make sure patient’s needs are met.

Maintain the confidentiality of matters regarding patients, employees and the clinic.

Document patient records.

Comply with regulations, rules and procedures in order to maintain a safe and clean environment. Adhere strictly to infection control protocols to protect patients and fellow employees.

Finding and addressing risk factors

Documenting care management plans of the patient as well as ongoing activities

Identifying patient needs, current services and what resources may be available to them and then connecting them to these services and/or resources to meet their established goals.

Serve as the patient’s advocate and communicate their care preferences. Verify that interventions meet the needs and goals of the treatment plan.

Dementia RN is also trained to provide psychological support and advise to family members. The caregiver’s journey is not an easy one either and Dementia and the complications is very stressful and can have an effect on the other household member’s health as well.