Professional Staff Nurse, OP - Orthopaedic Sports Medicine of Erie

Ready to make a real impact in orthopedic patient care while working behind the scenes? UPMC's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine of Erie is looking for a highly skilled and compassionate Professional Staff Nurse for a primarily phone triage role—ideal for someone who thrives on clinical decision-making and patient communication. Candidates should be comfortable spending the majority of their day on the phone, using sound judgment and strong multitasking abilities to manage calls, coordinate care, and document interactions in EPIC. A background in musculoskeletal anatomy, imaging orders, pre- and post-op protocols, and professional phone etiquette will set you up for success. If you're a collaborative, empathetic nurse with a knack for problem-solving and digital communication, we’d love to welcome you to our team.

Our ideal candidate will have a background or familiarity with the following knowledge, skills and tasks:

•Knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy and terminology: Crucial for understanding and communicating about orthopedic conditions.

•Experience with imaging orders: Familiarity with X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, including entering orders per physician instructions.

•Understanding of pre- and post-operative protocols: Ability to explain surgical processes and review instructions with patients.

•Strong phone etiquette: Professional and courteous manner when handling patient calls.

•Clear documentation: Accurately charting triage decisions and patient interactions in EMRs (e.g., EPIC).

•Collaborative mindset: Works closely with physicians, PAs, and NPs to coordinate care and improve workflows.

•Sound clinical judgment: Quickly assesses orthopedic complaints (e.g., joint pain, fractures, post-op concerns) and determines urgency.

•Problem-solving skills: Able to make decisions independently while knowing when to escalate.

•Multitasking: Handles multiple calls, messages, and documentation efficiently.

•Time management: Returns calls and messages promptly, prioritizing based on acuity.

•Comfort with EMRs and internet applications: Especially EPIC and patient portals.

•Email and digital communication proficiency: For internal coordination and patient follow-ups.

•Empathy and patience: Especially important when dealing with post-op patients or those in pain.

•Flexibility and reliability: Willingness to adapt to changing schedules and patient volumes.

•Detail-oriented: Ensures accuracy in triage notes, orders, and patient instructions.

Responsibilities:

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities, sharing insights with colleagues, and implementing evidence-based practices to enhance patient care and satisfaction.
• Establish and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with executives, physicians, healthcare teams, patients, and families to support high-quality care.
• Demonstrate strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and clinical judgment skills to navigate complex patient care situations.
• Adapt to a dynamic environment by managing multiple priorities, utilizing specialized equipment, and maintaining the physical stamina required for patient care.
• Educate patients, families, students, and new staff by applying adult learning principles and providing clear, detailed guidance throughout the care process.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and professional growth through open dialogue, feedback, and mentorship.
• Develop individualized care plans in collaboration with patients, considering their holistic needs and personal goals.
• Triage patient situations, coordinate care with physicians, and assist with assessments, evaluations, and education.
• Utilize critical thinking to identify and address clinical, social, safety, psychological, and spiritual concerns.
• Ensure accurate and comprehensive documentation to enhance communication and improve patient safety and quality of care.
• Commit to ongoing professional development to enhance practice quality and patient care, while actively participating in shared governance and goal-setting initiatives.
• Collaborate with the care team to support transitions, adapt to change, and contribute to improvements in patient care and the practice environment.
• Build and maintain positive, productive relationships with patients, colleagues, and external partners through accountability, enthusiasm, and commitment.
• Promote a culture of respect and collaboration by understanding cultural differences and fostering healthy, accountable relationships.
• Model work-life balance, safe work practices, and effective time management while proactively addressing safety concerns in the workplace.