Surgical Intensive Care Unit; SICU Advanced Practice Provider

The Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) at the University of Maryland Medical Center is a 24-bed high-acuity unit providing care for complex surgical patients across multiple specialties, including transplant, vascular, oral maxillofacial, emergency general surgery, orthopedic, oncology, gynecologic, and thoracic surgery.

The SICU Advanced Practice Provider (APP) team consists of 11 APPs working in close collaboration with attending physicians, residents, fellows, and the Department Director. The APP plays a key role in ensuring continuity of care, clinical excellence, and coordinated communication among patients, families, and the interdisciplinary care team.

This role supports the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective, and patient-centered care while promoting safety, optimal outcomes, and appropriate length of stay. APPs also contribute to the advancement of evidence-based practice, education, and quality improvement initiatives within the SICU.

• Perform comprehensive history and physical examinations for SICU patients
• Demonstrate advanced clinical reasoning, diagnostic evaluation, and decision-making
• Order, interpret, and act on diagnostic testing and imaging
• Establish and manage medical diagnoses and individualized treatment plans
• Prescribe medications and initiate evidence-based treatment protocols
• Perform invasive procedures, including:
  • Central venous catheter insertion
  • Arterial line placement
  • Hemodialysis catheter insertion
  • Pulmonary artery catheter placement
  • Chest tube removal
  • Thoracentesis
• Participate in multidisciplinary rounds and present patients within assigned caseload
• Collaborate with physicians regarding admissions, discharges, and transfers
• Communicate and coordinate care plans with patients, families, and care teams
• Provide patient and family education regarding diagnoses, treatment plans, and recovery
• Initiate appropriate consultations and referrals
• Ensure timely patient flow and discharge planning in collaboration with case management
• Integrate holistic care considerations, including pain management and palliative care resources
• Uphold patient advocacy and shared decision-making principles
• Utilize evidence-based guidelines to optimize patient outcomes
• Maintain compliance with National Patient Safety Goals and institutional standards
• Complete accurate and timely clinical documentation, including STS data reporting

• Serve as a clinical resource for residents, fellows, medical students, and nursing staff
• Support onboarding and orientation of new staff and trainees
• Contribute to staff education and clinical skill development
• Participate in community education and outreach initiatives when applicable
• Promote understanding of critical care disease processes and best practices

• Participate in quality improvement and patient safety initiatives
• Contribute to development and implementation of evidence-based protocols
• Engage in departmental and institutional committees and initiatives
• Support accreditation readiness and regulatory compliance activities
• Assist in monitoring outcomes related to safety, quality, and cost-effectiveness

• Maintain required licensure, certification, and clinical privileges
• Engage in continuing education (CME/CEU) and professional development activities
• Participate in shared governance, councils, or professional committees
• Serve as a representative and advocate for the department and institution
• Contribute to policy discussions at local, regional, or national levels when applicable

• Prioritize patient safety in all clinical activities
• Identify and report risks, adverse events, and near misses
• Follow institutional policies, procedures, and safety standards
• Maintain professional, respectful communication with patients, families, and staff
• Ensure timely response to communications (calls, messages, documentation)
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA and institutional guidelines

• Current Maryland Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant license (in good standing)
• National certification in specialty area (preferred or…