General Surgery Nurse Practitioner - Richland, WA

Position Summary

The General Surgery Nurse Practitioner (NP) provides advanced clinical care to surgical patients under the supervision or collaboration of a licensed General Surgeon. The NP is responsible for managing patient care across the surgical continuum, including preoperative evaluation, intraoperative support, and postoperative management. This role requires strong clinical expertise, procedural skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced surgical environment.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Care

• Perform comprehensive patient assessments, including history and physical examinations
• Diagnose and manage acute and chronic surgical conditions
• Develop and implement treatment plans in collaboration with supervising surgeons
• Order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests (labs, imaging, etc.)
• Prescribe medications and therapies in accordance with state regulations

Preoperative & Postoperative Management

• Conduct preoperative evaluations and risk assessments
• Prepare patients for surgery, including informed consent and education
• Manage postoperative care, including wound care, pain control, and complication monitoring
• Perform follow-up visits and coordinate discharge planning

Surgical Support

• Assist in the operating room as first or second assist during general surgery procedures
• Perform bedside procedures such as suturing, incision and drainage, and wound debridement
• Maintain sterile technique and assist in perioperative patient management

Patient Education & Advocacy

• Educate patients and families on surgical procedures, recovery expectations, and preventive care
• Provide instructions on medication use, wound care, and follow-up plans
• Advocate for patient needs and safety throughout the care process

Collaboration & Care Coordination

• Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and allied healthcare professionals
• Participate in multidisciplinary rounds and case discussions
• Facilitate referrals to specialists and coordinate continuity of care

Documentation & Compliance

• Accurately document patient encounters in the electronic medical record (EMR)
• Ensure adherence to clinical protocols, regulatory requirements, and safety standards
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and performance evaluations

Qualifications

Required

• Master’s or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from an accredited Nurse Practitioner program
• Current certification as a Nurse Practitioner (e.g., FNP, AGACNP, or ACNP)
• Active state NP license and prescriptive authority
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) preferred
• Strong knowledge of surgical care principles and clinical practices

Preferred

• 1–3 years of experience in general surgery or surgical specialty
• Experience in inpatient, outpatient, or operative settings
• Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems