Registered Nurse (RN) New Graduate- Emergency Department

Emergency Department

The Main ED at SMJH sees between 70 and 100 patients per day. This well supported department is centered around teamwork and patient- first mindset. In an emergency, quick access to skilled care makes all the difference. That's why Sentara offers access to emergency services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our management team has been long standing and diligent about building a cohesive and dedicated care team to serve the Charlottesville, VA area.

Required Call: Full Time nurses have 16 hours of required call per 6 weeks. Part Time Nurses have 12 hours of required call per 6 weeks.

New Graduate Cohort: Transition to Practice Cohort for the Emergency Room is expected to begin in Early 2027. Preferred applicants will have completed the NCLEX prior to March 2027.

Job Description

The Registered Nurse (RN) - New Graduate delivers nursing and patient care during the first year of practice while transitioning from academic preparation to independent professional practice. Working under the guidance of preceptors and experienced registered nurses and supported by the organization's nurse residency and onboarding program, this role assesses patients, delivers care, administers medications, and documents in the electronic health record within a growing scope of competency. The position matters because a structured, well-supported first year builds the clinical judgment, confidence, and safety habits that shape a nurse's entire career. As competencies are validated, the new graduate takes on progressively greater autonomy and patient complexity, moving steadily toward the full, independent practice of a staff registered nurse.

Minimum Required Education

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is required. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is preferred.

Minimum Required Experience

Entry level. Zero to one year of nursing experience. Clinical rotations completed during nursing school are expected.

Minimum Required Certification / Licensure

Current state RN license is required upon hire. Successful completion of the NCLEX-RN examination is required. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required.

Minimum Required Competencies

• Foundational nursing knowledge and developing clinical judgment.
• Growing skill in assessment, care planning, and medication administration under guidance.
• Openness to feedback, coaching, and precepted learning.
• Proficiency with the electronic health record and clinical documentation.
• Safe practice within scope and prompt escalation of concerns.
• Time management and prioritization across a patient assignment.
• Clear communication with patients, families, and the care team.
• Commitment to residency education and competency validation.

Responsibilities

• Provides nursing and patient care during the first year of practice within a growing scope of competency.
• Works under the guidance of preceptors and experienced registered nurses to build clinical skills and judgment.
• Completes patient assessments and contributes to individualized care plans.
• Administers medications and treatments safely and escalates concerns promptly.
• Participates in the nurse residency, onboarding, and competency validation program.
• Documents assessments, interventions, and outcomes in the electronic health record.
• Takes on progressively greater autonomy and patient complexity as competencies are validated.
• Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team and communicates clearly with patients and families.
• Follows safety, infection control, and DNV/CMS standards at all times.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.