Job Summary:
The Registered Nurse in the ICU provides skilled bedside care to critically ill patients in a 21-bed general ICU, including cardiac, neuro, neurosurgical, post-cardiovascular surgery, post-general surgery, medical ICU, and post-trauma patients. The nurse is responsible for patient assessments, medication administration, treatment planning, and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team to ensure high-quality care. This role requires strong clinical skills, effective communication, and the ability to work in a fast-paced critical care environment.
Responsibilities:
- Provide direct bedside nursing care to ICU patients with a typical nurse-to-patient ratio of 2:1.
- Perform comprehensive patient assessments and monitor patient status continuously.
- Administer medications and treatments as prescribed and monitor patient responses.
- Collaborate with physicians, therapists, and interdisciplinary team members to develop and implement individualized care plans.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of patient care and clinical observations.
- Respond promptly to patient emergencies and changes in condition.
- Educate patients and families regarding care plans and procedures.
- Adhere to infection control, safety protocols, and hospital policies.
Required Skills & Certifications:
- Active Registered Nurse license in Illinois.
- Minimum of 2 years nursing experience, preferably in ICU or critical care settings.
- Strong clinical assessment, medication administration, and treatment planning skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-acuity environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Bachelor's degree in Nursing or related field preferred.
Preferred Skills & Certifications:
- Experience with cardiac, neuro, neurosurgical, and post-surgical ICU patient care.
- Advanced certifications such as CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse).
- Experience with ventilators, hemodynamic monitoring, and other ICU equipment.
Special Considerations:
- Work is performed in a 21-bed general ICU with diverse critical care patients.
- Weekend work required every other weekend.
- No on-call requirements.
- Shift involves night hours and care for high-acuity patients.
Scheduling:
- Night shift from 1900 to 0730 hours.
- Schedule includes every other weekend shifts.
- Shift assignments are based on ICU staffing needs.