Triage RN - Primary Care

UNC Health Appalachian; Boone (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan with employer match

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Wellness incentives

Job summary

UNC Health Appalachian is seeking a Triage Registered Nurse (RN) to perform telephone and in-person clinical assessments, triage patients, and coordinate care in a Boone, North Carolina clinic. The role emphasizes evidence-based guidance, patient education, and timely escalation of urgent cases.

The ideal candidate holds an accredited nursing degree, an active RN license, and at least two years of triage-focused nursing experience, preferably in outpatient settings.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
• Minimum of two (2) years of nursing experience with demonstrated proficiency in triage and patient assessment.
• Current and valid Registered Nurse license; Basic Life Support (BLS) required at time of hire.

Responsibilities

• Conduct telephone and in-person clinical assessments using established protocols.
• Evaluate patient symptoms and determine appropriate next steps in care.
• Provide clinical guidance, education, and recommendations based on patient needs.
• Escalate urgent or complex cases to providers when appropriate.
• Coordinate communication between patients, providers, and healthcare team members.
• Support continuity of care through accurate assessment and documentation.

Skills

Telephone triage

Clinical assessment

Critical thinking

EMR proficiency

Education

Graduate of an accredited nursing program

Tools

EMR systems

Job description

Appalachian Regional Medical Associates · Baker Center for Primary Care

Clinical Nursing

Full-time , Days , 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Triage Registered Nurse (RN)

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Full-Time | Clinic-Based | Non-Exempt

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As a Triage Registered Nurse (RN) at UNC Health Appalachian, you’ll play a vital role in helping patients access the right care at the right time. Through telephone and in-person clinical assessments, you’ll evaluate symptoms, provide evidence-based guidance, coordinate care, and serve as a trusted clinical resource for patients and healthcare providers.

This role combines strong assessment skills, critical thinking, and compassionate communication to support safe, timely, and patient-centered care. You’ll maintain hands-on clinical assessment skills while participating in ongoing education, quality improvement initiatives, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina offers year-round outdoor recreation, vibrant community life, and an exceptional quality of life.

Compensation:$34.00per hour, based on education, experience, certification, and internal equity.

Schedule:Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; wellness incentives; employee discounts; and additional employee support programs. Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new hire orientation.

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new hire orientation.

What You’ll Do as a Triage Registered Nurse (RN)

Clinical Assessment & Triage

Conduct telephone and in-person clinical assessments using established evidence-based protocols.

Evaluate patient symptoms and determine appropriate next steps in care.

Provide clinical guidance, education, and recommendations based on patient needs.

Escalate urgent or complex cases to providers when appropriate.

Care Coordination

Facilitate timely access to care and appropriate patient follow-up.

Coordinate communication between patients, providers, and healthcare team members.

Support continuity of care through accurate assessment and documentation.

Educate patients regarding symptoms, treatment options, and recommended care plans.

Provide reassurance, support, and guidance while promoting patient engagement in care.

Respond to patient concerns with professionalism, empathy, and clinical expertise.

Professional Practice & Quality Improvement

Maintain hands-on clinical assessment skills and nursing competencies.

Participate in ongoing training, quality improvement programs, and clinical education initiatives.

Practice in accordance with the North Carolina Nurse Practice Act and organizational policies.

Uphold the highest standards of ethical nursing practice and patient care.

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications/Licenses

Education

Graduate of an accredited nursing program.

Experience

Clinical nursing experience, preferably in emergency medicine or primary care.

Minimum of two (2) years of nursing experience with demonstrated proficiency in triage and patient assessment.

Experience in an outpatient or clinic setting highly preferred.

Required Licensure & Certifications

Current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) license.

Basic Life Support (BLS) issued by the American Heart Association required at the time of hire.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of the skills and abilities required to function effectively as a Telephone Triage Nurse.

Excellent assessment and critical‑thinking skills to accurately evaluate patient symptoms and conditions.

Ability to work independently and make sound clinical decisions in a fast‑paced environment.

Familiarity with medical terminology, common illnesses, and treatment options.

Proficiency with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and clinical documentation systems.

Compassion, empathy, and commitment to patient‑centered care.

Physical & Work Environment

Physical Demands

Ability to move freely throughout the clinic environment.

Manual dexterity for typing, documentation, and handling clinical equipment.

Visual acuity required for reviewing medical records and interpreting clinical information.

Ability to lift and carry equipment or assist with patient mobility as needed.

Hearing and visual acuity necessary for effective patient communication and assessment.

Working Conditions

Clinical environment with exposure to medical equipment and patient care settings.

Fast‑paced work environment requiring efficient prioritization and multitasking.

Regular collaboration with providers, healthcare professionals, patients, and families.

Ability to remain calm and effective during stressful or urgent situations.

Adherence to infection control and safety protocols.

Frequent use of Electronic Health Records (EHR) and clinical software systems.

What Sets Us Apart

Career Growth: Access ongoing training, continuing education opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and clinical career pathways.

Impactful Work: Help patients navigate healthcare needs safely and efficiently while contributing to positive outcomes and exceptional patient experiences.

Community & Lifestyle: Live and work in Boone, North Carolina, with convenient access to hiking, skiing, dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.

Top‑Tier Community: Boone is home to Appalachian State University and is consistently recognized as one of North Carolina's most desirable mountain communities.

Meaningful Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive insurance coverage, retirement benefits with employer match, paid time off, professional development resources, wellness programs, and employee discounts.

Inclusive Culture: UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and is committed to creating a workplace where every team member is respected, supported, and valued.

Ready to Make a Difference in Patient Care?

About UNC Health Appalachian

It’s official. UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" Leapfrog Patient Safety Grade. UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, the Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation.

UNC Health Appalachian remains committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply "making life better."

About UNC Health

UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses, and more than 500 clinics, along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM).

It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve while furthering the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated and charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognitions for quality care, patient safety, and the overall patient experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.

We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

For accommodations or additional information, contact [e-mail].