Position Overview

This role is essential within the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) team, focusing on delivering exceptional, patient-centered care. The position demands advanced clinical skills, specialized certifications, and the ability to work independently while collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure patient safety and optimal health outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Care:
  • Lead coordination of the healthcare team to provide safe, efficient, and equitable care tailored to each patient.
  • Perform thorough assessments to determine individual patient needs.
  • Create and execute personalized care plans.
  • Monitor patient responses to interventions and act promptly when adjustments are necessary.
  • Advocate for patients, ensuring their dignity and confidentiality are maintained.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of care delivered by all team members and the impact of the care environment on patient progress.
  • Educate patients and families on medical conditions, treatments, and lifestyle changes.
  • Promote evidence-based practices within ICU care.
• Safety and Compliance:
  • Maintain a clean, safe work environment adhering to infection control and institutional policies.
  • Strictly follow aseptic techniques and infection prevention protocols.
  • Comply with regulatory standards including those from The Joint Commission and OSHA.
  • Identify and report safety concerns, actively participating in systemic improvements.
• Documentation:
  • Accurately record care activities, patient progress, and any incidents in electronic medical records.
• Professional Development and Leadership:
  • Mentor and precept new nurses and students, supporting their growth.
  • Engage in continuing education, certifications, workshops, and quality improvement projects.
  • Serve as a resource and advocate for best practices within the ICU.
  • Assume charge nurse and Rapid Response Team roles as needed.
• Emergency Preparedness:
  • Respond decisively and skillfully in critical situations such as cardiac arrest, maintaining composure under pressure.

Qualifications

Experience

• At least two years of experience as a Registered Nurse in a high-acuity ICU setting is required.
• Alternatively, two years in an inpatient telemetry, progressive care, or step-down critical care unit with successful completion of a critical care curriculum is acceptable.
• Proven ability to manage complex patient cases.

Competencies

• Proficient with advanced critical care equipment and technology.
• Strong knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and critical care pharmacology.
• Skilled in maintaining sterile procedural fields and adhering to protocols.
• Excellent critical thinking and rapid decision-making abilities in high-pressure environments.
• Effective communication skills with patients, families, and healthcare teams.

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with five years of ICU experience may be considered.

Licenses and Certifications

• Current Registered Nurse license valid in the state of practice.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association.
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification from the American Heart Association.
• NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) certification.
• Certified Critical Care Nurse (CCRN) or equivalent certification preferred.

All candidates must successfully complete a physical exam, drug screening, and background check prior to employment.