Risk Management / Quality Assurance Registered Nurse

I work in areas consistent with my training and experience

My competencies (education, training, skills) meet the needs of my unit

I understand the risks inherent in my clinical setting

When floated or cross-covering, I ensure my competencies match the assignment

I receive or seek orientation when assigned to a different unit or level of care

I pursue ongoing education to maintain my specialty competencies

I decline assignments if they exceed my competency for patient safety

I review my local Nurse Practice Act annually to know my legal scope

I refuse services outside my legal scope and inform my supervisor or DON

I consult Risk Management or Legal departments when issues arise

I reach out to my Board of Nursing for guidance on practice issues when needed

Upon admission, change in treatment, or condition, I assess and document:

Presenting issues

Fall risk

Co-morbidities

Patient understanding of condition and plan

Mobility (including aids)

Medications

Elopement/abduction risk

Skin/wound status

Pain management

Use of restraints

Behavior patterns

Cognition

Nutrition/hydration status

Vital signs

Relevant lab values

I continuously monitor and document patient condition changes and respond appropriately

I know how to report incidents, near-misses, and safety concerns

I follow reporting protocols promptly and accurately

I engage in root cause analysis or reviews when involved in incidents

I contribute to corrective action plans and follow through on implementation

I audit documentation and clinical processes for completeness and accuracy

I ensure compliance with accreditation standards (e.g., Joint Commission, CMS)

I track KPIs (e.g., fall rate, readmissions, patient satisfaction)

I assist in developing, implementing, and evaluating quality improvement initiatives

I provide or facilitate training on risk prevention and safety procedures

I educate staff on documentation, incident reporting, and compliance standards

I ensure staff maintain required competencies, licenses, and certifications

I maintain detailed QA and risk management records

I report to leadership and regulatory agencies as required

I track corrective actions and ensure timely follow-up

I effectively collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on risk/QA issues