RN, Trauma
Company : Oregon Health & Science University
Location : Portland, OR, 97201
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 4 January 2026
Department Overview
We strive to be a unified team of expert clinicians, administrators, and support staff that provides our patients with exceptional, compassionate care through strong leadership, clear communication, focused education, and evidence-based practice. Designated acute care unit for all trauma/surgical ventilated patients. 13A provides care to adolescent through geriatric patients ranging from 16-100+ who have a variety of diagnoses, which require medical/surgical interventions and recovery for trauma related conditions. This population may include, but are not limited to: injuries related to motor vehicle accidents including moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries. gunshot and stab wounds; traumatic amputations; limb reattachments; multisystem trauma; spine surgery fracture repair, sport related injuries and interpersonal and intrapersonal violence, mental health disturbances. It is the overflow for Orthopedics and Emergency General Surgery.
This position also comes with great benefits! Some highlights include:
- Comprehensive health care plans. Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents.
- $25K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee
- Two separate above market pension plans to choose from
- Vacation - 192 to 288 hours per year depending on length of service, prorated for part-time
- Sick Leave - 96 hours per year, prorated for part-time
- Holidays - up to 64 holiday hours per calendar year (employees accrue .0308 holiday hours for each hour paid)
- Substantial public transportation discounts (Tri-met and C-Tran)
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Innovative Employee Assistance Program (EAP) including extensive wellness resources
Function/Duties of Position
The OHSU Clinical registered nurse (RN) provides compassionate, evidence-based, and efficient care to individuals, families, communities and patient populations. The Clinical RN’s care delivery is consistent with the Oregon Nurse Practice Act, the ANA Scope and Standards of Practice, and the ANA Code of Ethics. The Clinical RN demonstrates the professional role obligations of scientist, leader, practitioner, and knowledge transferor [O’Rourke Model of the Professional Role™]. Professional accountability enriches the Clinical RN’s engagement as a leader in promoting an inter-professional culture of collaborative decision-making, innovation, life-long learning, and teamwork. The Clinical Nurse exemplifies the principles of a Culture of Safety by committing to a Just Culture, a Reporting Culture, Learning Culture, and an Engaged Informed Culture.
Required Qualifications
- 1 year or more RN experience in a hospital setting
- BSN Graduates: Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing from a program accredited by Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) 30 days before start date.
- ADN Graduates: Associate Degree in Nursing from an accredited program 30 days before the start date.
- Associate degree Nurses required to enroll in BSN program within 3 years of hire and complete within 5 years of hire
- Current, unencumbered Oregon State Registered Nurse License
- BLS at time of hire and must be issued by the American Heart Association (AHA)
- BLS must not expire during orientation
- Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation
Additional Details
Length of Orientation – Experienced Nurse
- External candidates: OHSU & Nursing New Employee Orientation (NEO) for about a week.
- Either Transition to Practice (TTP) Program Specialty Fellowship/Fellowship Learning Pathway or Orientation experience for 3 days-26 weeks depending on the care area. An employment service agreement may apply.
3 positions available
All are welcome
Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.
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Frequently asked questions
Portland's healthcare sector has a steady demand for trauma RNs, especially at institutions like Oregon Health & Science University. The city's emphasis on trauma and emergency care means candidates with trauma experience and Oregon licensure often find strong opportunities, though competition can be high due to the region's reputable medical centers.
Besides the essential Oregon RN license, trauma nursing positions often expect certifications like BLS from the American Heart Association. Given Portland's focus on comprehensive trauma care, advanced trauma nursing certifications or specialized training can enhance job prospects at facilities such as Oregon Health & Science University.
An RN specializing in trauma manages urgent care for patients with critical injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, and multisystem trauma. They must swiftly assess and stabilize patients, coordinate with surgical teams, and provide recovery support, which demands both clinical expertise and emotional resilience distinct from general nursing roles.
Trauma nurses often progress by gaining certifications such as Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC), advancing into specialist roles like trauma nurse practitioner, or leadership positions like trauma manager. Continuous education and hands-on experience in acute care settings like Oregon Health & Science University accelerate growth and specialization.
Clinical RNs in trauma at OHSU engage in intensive patient monitoring, administer treatment for severe injuries, collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, and document care meticulously. Their day oscillates between rapid emergency responses and supporting recovery phases, requiring adaptability and a strong grasp of trauma protocols.
OHSU offers trauma RNs access to an innovative employee assistance program featuring wellness resources tailored for high-stress healthcare environments. This includes counseling, stress management workshops, and peer support networks, helping nurses maintain mental health while delivering compassionate trauma care.
Yes, full-time trauma nurses at OHSU enjoy comprehensive healthcare coverage fully paid by the employer, substantial vacation and holiday hours, a choice of above-market pension plans, life insurance benefits, and tuition reimbursement, making it a highly supportive workplace in Portland's competitive healthcare landscape.
Trauma RNs in Portland generally earn between $85,000 and $110,000 annually, aligning closely with national averages for trauma nursing. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, and hospital prestige, with institutions like OHSU often offering competitive compensation packages to attract skilled trauma clinicians.
Applicants must hold a current, unrestricted Oregon RN license and have at least one year of hospital nursing experience. A BSN or ADN with enrollment in a BSN program is required, alongside American Heart Association BLS certification valid through orientation, ensuring readiness for Oregon’s acute trauma care demands.
Yes, OHSU provides a thorough orientation including nursing new employee orientation and a specialty fellowship or transition to practice program lasting from a few days up to 26 weeks, depending on prior experience and unit assignment. This ensures trauma RNs are well-prepared to manage Portland’s complex trauma cases.