Job Summary
The ICU Registered Nurse (RN) on nights is responsible for providing comprehensive nursing care to critically ill patients, utilizing the Nursing Process to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care. The RN also functions as a care manager by directing and overseeing other caregivers through delegation, coordination, supervision, and evaluation of patient outcomes. This role requires critical thinking, sound judgment, and effective communication within a fast-paced acute care environment.
Responsibilities
- Perform thorough assessment and data collection focusing on physiologic, psychosocial, and cognitive status of patients.
- Implement nursing care in adherence to established procedures, policies, and individualized care plans.
- Identify patient and family learning needs and provide appropriate teaching and support.
- Document patient care accurately in electronic medical records and/or paper charts following regulatory standards.
- Delegate patient care activities appropriately and supervise assigned coworkers effectively.
- Serve as Charge Nurse when required, managing patient assignments, admissions, discharges, transfers, and staff coordination.
- Maintain professional growth through ongoing education, seminars, and workshops.
- Adhere to safety protocols including infection control, equipment use, and emergency procedures.
- Communicate courteously and efficiently with patients, families, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members.
- Perform physical tasks including lifting, moving, and managing medical equipment as needed.
Required Skills & Certifications
- Current Registered Nurse licensure in the state of Washington.
- Graduation from an accredited school of nursing.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider certification within 30 days of hire.
- Minimum of one year RN experience preferred, especially in acute care or specialty nursing departments.
- Strong critical thinking, clinical assessment, and decision-making skills.
- Ability to perform nursing duties across the age continuum in an ICU setting.
- Physical ability to perform patient care including lifting, walking, and manual dexterity.
Preferred Skills & Certifications
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification within 6 months of hire and renewal every 2 years.
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification within 12 months of hire and renewal every 2 years.
- Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) certification within 12 months of hire and renewal every 4 years.
- Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition and Stabilization (PEARS) certification within 12 months of hire and renewal every 2 years.
- Moderate sedation training completed within 12 months of hire and annually thereafter.
- RN-C certification preferred.
Special Considerations
- Must demonstrate emotional stability to manage high-stress situations associated with critical care nursing.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high acuity environment with rapidly changing patient conditions.
- May be required to function as Charge Nurse, including leadership and coordination responsibilities.
- Compliance with organizational policies, safety protocols, and labor agreements is mandatory.
- Physical demands include frequent standing, walking, lifting up to 30 lbs regularly, and assisting with heavier lifting as needed.
Scheduling
- Night shift schedule in the Intensive Care Unit.
- Shift length typically ranges from 8 to 12 hours.
- May cancel up to two shifts per month or up to six shifts within any 13-week assignment.
- Shift assignments and coverage coordinated by nursing leadership and charge nurses.