ICU Registered Nurse (RN)

Job Description

The role involves providing care in a Neuro Stepdown unit, engaging with an intermediate patient population that includes neurological and medical cases. The candidate must have a strong background in neurological care and possess the ability to work collaboratively with the healthcare team while adhering to behavioral expectations in all interactions with staff and patients.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive nursing care to patients in the Neuro Stepdown unit.
• Monitor and titrate medications, including LEVO and insulin drips.
• Perform cardiac, respiratory, and neurological assessments, including interpreting dysrhythmias and managing ventilated patients.
• Administer IV therapy, manage blood products, and provide central and peripheral line care.
• Conduct feeding tube management and bladder irrigation for gastrointestinal and urinary care.
• Participate in emergency response situations, including the use of rapid response teams.
• Maintain compliance with isolation protocols and wound care practices.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a Neuro Stepdown, PCU, DOU, IMC, or similar telemetry environment.
• Prior experience in a clinical setting is required; first-time travelers will not be accepted.
• Mandatory skills include cardiac monitoring, IV therapy, phlebotomy, and medication management.
• Knowledge in neurological conditions such as aneurysms, craniotomies, CVA, and seizures is essential.
• Active certifications in ACLS, BLS, and NIHSS are required.
• Experience with EPIC or similar electronic health record systems is necessary.

Preferred Skills

• Additional certifications such as CCRN, TNCC, and CPI are advantageous.
• Experience in conscious sedation, triage, and charge nurse responsibilities are preferred.

Work Environment

The average nurse-to-patient ratio is 1:4, with an average daily census reaching up to 24 patients. The shifts typically include 12-hour night shifts, with an expectation of working weekends every six weeks. Orientation for new staff includes both computer training and hands-on unit experience.

Additional Information

Teamwork and effective communication are vital for success in this role, along with a stringent adherence to policies regarding call-offs and scheduling commitments. Engagement in continuous education and skills development is encouraged as part of professional growth.