Geriatric Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an aging population, the demand for geriatric nurses has never been more critical.

As society matures, with each passing day, the need for compassionate, skilled individuals who can care for, support, and improve the quality of life for our older generation escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a geriatric nurse?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of geriatric nursing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable geriatric nurse job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Geriatric Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

Geriatric Nurses specialize in providing healthcare services to elderly patients.

They play a crucial role in the medical sector, helping to manage and improve the health of older adults with their expert understanding of the aging process.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing care for elderly patients
• Monitoring the health of elderly patients and notifying physicians of any changes in patient’s condition
• Administering prescribed medications and treatments as per the physician’s instructions
• Providing physical support to patients in activities such as walking, bathing, and eating
• Assisting in the diagnosis, treatment and management of illnesses common in elderly patients such as dementia, arthritis, and diabetes
• Providing emotional support and counseling to patients and their families about the challenges of aging
• Documenting all care information concisely, accurately, and completely, in a timely manner, in the appropriate format and on the appropriate forms
• Teaching patients and their families about healthy habits, medication regimens, available healthcare resources, and illness prevention
• Coordinating with a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals such as dietitians, physiotherapists, and social workers to develop a comprehensive care plan for the patient
• Carrying out health education and advocacy on the rights and health needs of elderly patients

 

Geriatric Nurse Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a compassionate and dedicated Geriatric Nurse to join our healthcare team.

Your role will be to care for our elderly patients, monitor their health conditions, administer medicines, and work closely with doctors to ensure the best possible care.

Geriatric Nurses should have a respectful, empathetic, and patient approach towards the elderly, as well as a thorough understanding of the common health problems faced by the elderly.

 

Responsibilities

• Assess the health condition of the patient by understanding their medical history and physical examinations
• Develop and implement effective patient care plans
• Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians
• Regularly monitor patient’s health progress and adjust care plans as needed
• Educate patients and their families on managing illnesses and disease prevention
• Respond promptly to emergencies
• Maintain patient confidentiality and respect their dignity
• Collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals to provide the best care

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a geriatric nurse
• Registered Nurse (RN) license
• Thorough knowledge of geriatric health issues and care
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Compassionate and patient
• Attention to detail
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to cope with stressful situations
• BSc or diploma in nursing

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Mental health resources

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Geriatric Nurse
• Work Environment: Hospital or Long-term Care facility. Shift work may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Nurse or Nursing Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Geriatric Nurse Do?

Geriatric Nurses are specialized registered nurses who work with elderly patients.

They are often employed in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in-home care settings.

They provide primary healthcare to older adults, which can involve managing a range of physical conditions associated with aging, such as Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.

Geriatric Nurses perform routine check-ups, administer medication, assess patients’ physical and mental health, and coordinate care with other healthcare professionals.

They also educate patients and their families on the aging process, disease management, and preventative care.

In addition, they also provide emotional support and assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and mobility.

Geriatric Nurses play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for elderly patients, ensuring their comfort, and promoting independence as much as possible.

They also serve as advocates for patients who may have difficulty communicating their needs or concerns.

 

Geriatric Nurse Qualifications and Skills

Geriatric Nurses provide specialized care for the elderly, therefore, they should have the qualifications and skills such as:

• Strong clinical skills to provide comprehensive care to geriatric patients, including chronic disease management and preventive care.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with patients, family members, and other healthcare professionals, as well as to explain complex medical information in a way that the elderly and their families can understand.
• Compassionate and patient-centered approach in order to understand the specific needs and concerns of geriatric patients.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify subtle changes in a patient’s condition and take appropriate action.
• Physical endurance and strength to assist patients with mobility and perform tasks such as lifting and transferring patients.
• Emotional resilience and stress management skills to cope with the challenges of caring for the chronically ill or end-of-life patients.
• Knowledge of geriatric pharmacology to ensure safe medication administration and management for this vulnerable population.
• Skills in therapeutic communication to provide emotional support and promote mental well-being among elderly patients.

 

Geriatric Nurse Experience Requirements

To become a Geriatric Nurse, one must first complete a nursing degree program and become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN).

The experience requirement typically begins from this point.

For entry-level positions, Geriatric Nurses may need 1-2 years of experience, often gained through working in a general medical-surgical setting or through a rotation in geriatric care during their nursing program.

This allows them to gain experience in basic nursing care and understand the unique needs of the elderly population.

Candidates looking to specialize in Geriatrics often require additional training and experience, typically 2-3 years, in a geriatric or long-term care facility.

They may choose to obtain certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Geriatric Nurse, which also requires at least 2 years of full-time nursing experience.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in geriatric nursing often have developed excellent patient-care skills, as well as the ability to effectively communicate with patients, their families, and the healthcare team.

At this stage, they may also have acquired leadership experience and could be ready for a charge nurse or nursing manager position.

It’s important to note that continuing education in geriatric care is essential throughout a Geriatric Nurse’s career to stay updated with the latest practices and care techniques.

 

Geriatric Nurse Education and Training Requirements

To become a Geriatric Nurse, an individual must initially obtain a nursing degree either through an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

To be able to practice nursing, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) which will grant them a Registered Nurse (RN) licensure.

After gaining experience in the nursing field, typically a year or two, nurses can then opt to specialize in geriatric nursing.

They may choose to obtain a certification in geriatric nursing from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to become a Geriatric Nurse.

This certification typically requires at least 2,000 hours of clinical practice in geriatric nursing and 30 hours of continuing education in geriatrics.

For higher positions within geriatric nursing, such as a nurse practitioner, a Master’s degree in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on geriatrics may be necessary.

This advanced education covers specialized topics such as geriatric primary care, geriatric pharmacology, and advanced practice nursing for older adults.

Continual learning and refreshment of skills are important in this role, given the rapidly evolving nature of medical and geriatric care.

Therefore, pursuing additional courses and training in geriatrics and related areas can enhance the expertise and professional growth of a Geriatric Nurse.

 

Geriatric Nurse Salary Expectations

A Geriatric Nurse can expect to earn an average salary of $70,933 (USD) per year.

However, the exact salary can vary depending on factors such as the nurse’s experience, the location of the job, and the type of facility where the nurse is employed.

 

Geriatric Nurse Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Geriatric Nurse need?

Geriatric Nurses must be registered nurses (RNs) and have a nursing degree from a recognized nursing program.

They should also have a valid nursing license.

To specialize in geriatric care, they may choose to obtain certification from the Gerontological Nursing Certification Commission.

 

What skills does a Geriatric Nurse need?

Geriatric Nurses should possess strong communication skills to interact effectively with elderly patients and their families.

They should have excellent patient care skills and empathy to handle the physical and emotional needs of their patients.

Geriatric Nurses must also be capable of managing medical records and using medical software.

 

What are the daily duties of a Geriatric Nurse?

Geriatric Nurses are responsible for assessing the health condition of elderly patients, administering prescribed medications, performing routine check-ups and screenings, and coordinating with doctors and other healthcare professionals.

They also provide emotional support to patients and their families and educate them on managing the health conditions related to aging.

 

What qualities make a good Geriatric Nurse?

A good Geriatric Nurse is patient and compassionate, with a deep understanding of the unique needs of elderly patients.

They should be physically fit as the role often requires moving and assisting patients.

Good Geriatric Nurses are also excellent listeners and are able to provide comfort and reassurance to their patients and their families.

 

What should you look for in a Geriatric Nurse resume?

A Geriatric Nurse resume should display a valid nursing license and a degree in nursing.

Experience in geriatric care and any specialized certifications in the field are highly valuable.

The resume should also highlight skills such as patient care, communication, and knowledge of geriatric diseases and conditions.

Evidence of continued learning or specialization in geriatric care can be a positive indicator of a dedicated nurse.

 

Is it challenging to hire Geriatric Nurses?

Hiring Geriatric Nurses can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the job.

They must be comfortable working with the elderly and possess the compassion and patience needed for the role.

Demand for Geriatric Nurses is high, especially with an aging population, making recruitment in this field competitive.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken a closer look at the pivotal role of a geriatric nurse.

And guess what?

It’s not just about administering medication.

It’s about weaving the fabric of compassionate care, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive geriatric nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every patient interaction contributes to the larger narrative of healthcare.

Let’s shape that narrative. Together.

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