What is a telephonic nurse job?
A telephonic nurse job is a position that involves providing healthcare advice and support to patients over the phone. This role typically requires a registered nurse (RN) who is licensed to practice in their state of residence. Telephonic nurses work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, doctor's offices, insurance companies, and healthcare call centers.
What do telephonic nurses usually do in this position?
Telephonic nurses play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by providing patients with reliable and accurate medical advice over the phone. They may perform a range of tasks, including triaging patients, assessing symptoms, providing guidance on medication and treatment plans, and coordinating care with other healthcare providers.
In addition to patient care, telephonic nurses are often responsible for documenting patient interactions and maintaining accurate medical records. They may also be required to participate in training programs to stay up-to-date on the latest medical best practices.
Top 5 skills for the position:
- Strong communication skills: Telephonic nurses must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with patients over the phone, often in high-stress situations.
- Clinical knowledge: A solid understanding of medical terminology and best practices is essential for providing accurate medical advice.
- Critical thinking: Telephonic nurses must be able to quickly assess a patient's symptoms and make informed decisions about the appropriate course of action.
- Attention to detail: Accurate documentation is crucial in the healthcare industry, so telephonic nurses must be detail-oriented and able to maintain accurate medical records.
- Empathy and compassion: Patients who call healthcare hotlines are often in distress, so telephonic nurses must be able to provide emotional support and show empathy and compassion.
How to become this type of specialist:
To become a telephonic nurse, you typically need to have a registered nursing (RN) license and some clinical experience. Many telephonic nurse jobs require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, although some positions may be available to RNs with an associate's degree.
In addition to the required education and experience, telephonic nurses must have excellent communication skills and be comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-stress environment. Continuing education and certification programs are available to help telephonic nurses stay up-to-date on the latest medical best practices and technologies.
Average salary:
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for registered nurses was $75,330 as of May 2020. Telephonic nurses may earn more or less than this amount depending on their level of experience, education, and the specific industry in which they work.
Roles and types:
There are a variety of telephonic nurse roles and types available within the healthcare industry. Some common positions include:
- Triage nurses: These nurses are responsible for assessing patient symptoms and determining the appropriate level of care.
- Case managers: Case managers work with patients to coordinate healthcare services and ensure that they receive the necessary medical care.
- Health coaches: Health coaches provide patients with education and support to help them manage chronic conditions and improve their overall health.
- Telephone triage nurses: These nurses work in call centers and are responsible for answering patient calls, assessing symptoms, and providing medical advice.
Locations with the most popular jobs in the USA:
Telephonic nurse jobs are available throughout the United States, but some regions have more opportunities than others. Some of the states with the most telephonic nurse jobs include California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. Healthcare call centers and insurance companies are some of the top employers of telephonic nurses.
What are the typical tools:
Telephonic nurses use a variety of tools and technologies to perform their job duties. Some common tools include:
- Electronic health records (EHRs): These digital records allow nurses to quickly access patient information and medical histories.
- Clinical decision support tools: These tools help nurses make informed decisions about patient care by providing information about best practices and treatment guidelines.
- Telephone systems: Telephonic nurses use specialized telephone systems that allow them to handle multiple calls at once and transfer calls to other healthcare providers when necessary.
- Health education materials: Many telephonic nurses provide patients with health education materials, such as brochures and handouts, to help them manage their conditions.
In conclusion:
Telephonic nurse jobs are an important part of the healthcare industry, providing patients with reliable medical advice and support over the phone. Becoming a telephonic nurse requires a combination of education, experience, and excellent communication skills. With the right training and qualifications, telephonic nurses can make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients across the country.