Our orthopedic nurses are on the cutting edge of orthopedics. The orthopedic unit is a challenging and fast paced, 26-bed surgical unit. The nursing staff provide high quality, patient-focused care to the following patient populations:

Total Joint Replacements

• Hip
• Knee
• Shoulder
• Elbow

Spinal Surgery

• Multi-level Fusions
• Laminectomy
• Discectomy
• Kyphoplasty

Orthopedic Oncology

Reconstructive Surgery

• Hand
• Plastic (grafts, muscle flap)

Multiple Trauma

Upstate is the regions Level One Trauma Center

Organization

• The RN leads the nursing team consisting of other RNs, LPNs, and hospital attendants. The nursing staff is supported by the unit secretarial team.
• There is close collaboration with Physicians, Physician Extenders, Social Work Services, Case Management, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Nutritional Services.
• All members of the team participate in daily discharge planning rounds which help coordi nate the transition of patients to home, rehabilitation centers or skilled nursing facilities.
• The nursing team is supported by a strong orthopedic leadership team consisting of the Patient Service Supervisor, Patient Service Leader, Nursing Director and the Orthopedics Clinical Nurse Educator.

A Great Work Environment

• Computerized Nursing Documentation
• Computerized Physician Orders
• We strive to provide flexible and creative staffing patterns.
• Continued learning and career advancement is encouraged and supported. Orthopedic nursing is recognized as a professional specialty at University Hospital; certification/recertification is reimbursed.
• A satellite physical therapy gym is located on the floor.
• The orthopedic surgeons are internationally known and respected.