RN Registered Nurses take care of people who are sick, injured, convalescent or disabled. They care for patients by assessing, planning, intervention, implementation and evaluation, under general supervision, and in accordance with established practices and philosophy. Registered Nurses work with other professionals to ensure patient care is delivered effectively to achieve desired patient outcomes. The RN must effectively interact with the patient and family members while maintaining the standard of professional nursing. There are many travel assignments and jobs available for the Registered Nurse as the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that nursing is one of the top 10 occupations with the largest job growth. Where would you like to visit? Work in a great environment and enjoy free time seeing places you have always wanted to visit. Many great opportunities await the Registered Nurse in today’s market!

The Immunization Registered Nurse works under the supervision of the Clinic or Office Supervisor or physician and seeks to protect the community from preventable disease by providing education and immunization services to community residents. The RN assesses the status of clients and their immunization history, administers vaccines, as well as educating patients and their family members or caregivers. Answer questions and communicate effectively to educate the patient and others. The Immunization RN may also provide information and administer vaccines to international travelers.

Some Responsibilities of the Immunization Registered Nurse

Evaluate and assess the immunization status and of patients and Health Department staff using the knowledge of current vaccine preventable disease, immunization guidelines, vaccinations schedules, state, federal and international requirements and patients medical history. Analyze and interpret international immunization records when necessary.

Accept and answer calls from professional and non-professional sources about immunization information, vaccine safety, lice treatments and vaccination requirements for travelling internationally.

Educate and inform patients and caregivers about the importance of immunizations, following recommended immunization schedules, possible side effects of immunizations, and care following the immunizations.

Draws up the vaccines according to the manufacturer’s instructions and administer them using safe and proper techniques and a system of double checks to ensure the accuracy. Administer and evaluate tuberculosis skin tests and refer the patient for followup if necessary.

Accurately complete appropriate patients and facility records to ensure correct vaccines are administered and documented.

Advise and counsel patients, including non-English speaking clients, using interpreters if necessary, to overcome barriers to obtaining health care.

Provide consultation for travelers by assessing routine, required and recommended immunizations for international travel. Work with the practice physicians and supervisors to maintain quality standards of care. Develop and implement care plans for patient education, prophylaxis and referrals as needed.

Report suspected cases of abuse or neglect of children and/or adults to proper authorities in accordance with state law.

Assess and evaluate blood pressure and counsel patient or refer for followup as necessary.

Participate in and supervise off-site Immunization Clinics in the community. Transport biological, sharp instruments and other required supplies to clinic sites in a safe and secure manner. Provide expertise about immunizations to the health care team.

Evaluate patients for the presence of lice and educate the patient and/or caregivers on the control and prevention as well as dispensing treatment.

Research, develop and implement presentations for educating other health care team members. Provide training in Vaccination Clinic activities to visiting nurses, medical assistants, newly hired nurses and medical students.

Prepare for and respond to emergencies such as the outbreak of a communicable disease within the community. May respond to emergency situations in the clinic or office including vaccine reactions, injuries and symptoms of chest pain.

Educate patients and caregivers regarding their rights as related to privacy of medical information. Ensure that the patient records are secure, kept confidential and maintained in accordance with HIPAA standards.

Supervise the work of other health care personnel when the clinic supervisor or physician is absent.

Physical Requirements of the Immunization Registered Nurse

Sometimes it is necessary to restrain children when administering vaccinations

Bending and stooping

Lift, carry and transport supplies and equipment

Sometimes travel to other locations in the community is required

Computer literacy

Working Conditions of the RN in an Immunization Clinic

Most work is in an office or clinic setting.

Very often disruptive conditions occur in these settings.

RN may be exposed to communicable diseases, blood and other bodily fluids.