Working a Call-in Nurse Line

Working a Call-in Nurse Line Working as a nurse for a call-in nurse line is not what it used to be. The virtual world is taking over in healthcare, as many insurance companies are now starting to look at setting up nurse lines as the first means of communication for patients. As medical practices begin to set up nurse assisting lines dedicated to their practice, more and more jobs in this area will be in demand.

Traditional Nurse Help Lines Many hospitals offer 24 hour nurse help lines. They are dedicated lines that most often are available for patients that have medical providers associated with a certain hospital. The nurses are trained to answer generic questions, such as advice for colds, or viruses. The protocol is usually if the patient has a medical issue that may need attention; they are advised to see their health care provider. This type of call in line can be, to say the least interesting at times.

On the humorous side, here are some unusual calls that were answered and recorded: Caller- I can't sleep.

Nurse- Are you in need of assistance?

Caller- No I just can't sleep.

Nurse- Would you like to make an appointment to discuss insomnia with your doctor?

Caller- No. Nurse- Well what would you like for me to do for you sir?

Caller- I don't know.

Nurse- Sir, are you still there?

Caller- Yes, but I have to go to bed now.

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Can you tell me how to do stitches at home?

Is someone in need of stitches now?

Yes, my husband cut his hand, and needs stitches.

You needs to take him to our emergency room.

There is a real housewives marathon on, and I'm not taking him.

Is there someone else that can transport him?

Well, I hope so for his sake.

Of course, most calls are of a serious nature, with legitimate questions, but you do get the occasional call that leaves you in a state of wonderment.

Virtual Nurse Call Lines This is a relatively new concept, but it is growing rapidly. A patient will be insured under a plan that coordinated and covers the cost of the nurse care line. A patient will call in via a video call and speak with a nurse. As the nurse, you will listen to the patient, and perform a preliminary evaluation.

The next step is to either consult the attending physician to request a prescription for the patient, advise the patient to see their physician the following business day, advise the patient to go to the emergency room, or advise the patient to wait and see if the condition Improves. The advantage of a video call is to see the patient face to face, however this will never take the place of a physical face to face visit.

Screening Nurse Help Line Some insurance companies are now providing a screening phone line that patients consult when they want to make an appointment with their doctor.

The nurse does a short evaluation of the reason for the visit, and then schedules the appointment accordingly. This is more or less a triage typesetting, mainly used to arrange appointments depending on the severity of the medical situation.

Medical Office Nurse Lines Most medical practices have an option to speak to a nurse, or leave a message for a nurse, who then refers with the attending physician. This line is dedicated for existing patients of the practice, and most callers leave messages that require return calls. This enables the nurse to look up patient records prior to speaking with them, and the physician will provide advice or answers thru the nurse.

Related: The Evolution of the Nursing Uniform Pros of Nurse Help Lines  You will not be exposed to germs of sick patients since you are behind a phone.  You may be on a more regular schedule than traditional hospital work  Non emergency situations, most of the time  More relaxed atmosphere than hospitals Cons of Nurse Help Lines

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Lack of patient interaction, some nurses miss the physical care.

Demanding patients can be rude if you are not providing answers they want.

The call in line can be rather boring at times if call ins are low.

Help line nurses can also be employed through insurance companies, in which the nurse answers calls from people insured with that company. The calls and responses are similar to those of hospital call lines, and is offered both as a courtesy to the insured, and a liaison between patient and hospital or physician.

There is generally not much room for advancement in careers involving answering calls; however, it can be a great part time job that does not involve being on your feet 12 hours a day. This is also a growing field, and more opportunities may develop in the future as virtual medical visits become more popular. There are some strict guidelines that must be followed for help line nurses, with the main one being to never underestimate the condition of a patient. If there is any question to the seriousness, you will be advised to suggest the patient sees a doctor or visit the E.R. Help lines are now monitoring calls carefully, and limiting any advice that does not involve seeking treatment.

Virtual medical centers are certain to be more prevalent in the future, and the nursing positions would be similar to those in a physician's office, preparing the patient to speak with the physician. It will be much less hands on, however there are benefits as well. Essentially it is all based on the personal preference of each individual nurse.

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