RN - PCU

Progressive Care Nurse

The Progressive Care Nurse will provide care to hemodynamically stable or predictably unstable patients on a medical/surgical unit. This includes providing physical, emotional, spiritual, and cultural support to the patient. Anticipated patient populations include pediatrics, pre and post PCI care, pacemaker, revascularization, carotid endarterectomy, thoracotomy, CHF, COPD, DKA, renal failure, DVT, PE, sepsis, and a broad scope of surgical services. Staff will expect patients to be in relative stability while recognizing that diagnoses may require skilled assessment and intervention tools for potential deteriorating conditions.

Required to operate advanced medical equipment and care for patients with central lines, chest tubes, nasogastric tubes, continuous bladder irrigation, arterial lines, multiple IVs, and patients requiring short-term ventilation support. Provides care for general medical and surgical patients on the inpatient unit. Collaborate with other professional disciplines to ensure effective patient care delivery and achievement of desired patient outcomes. Nurses effectively interact with patients and significant others while maintaining the standard of professional nursing.

Must have the ability to assess and implement established policies and procedures with minimal supervision. Acts as a clinical leader and assists with precepting staff. Provides direct care for patients from admission to discharge in all aspects of care, including discharge planning. Gives directions to RN, LPN, CNA, housekeeping staff, and dietary staff. Receives directions from providers, charge nurse, and chief nursing officer.

The Progressive Care Nurse will also assist with staffing actions in the Medical Surgical Nursing Unit when required. Knowledge of basic office equipment and multiple IV pumps is necessary. Ability to operate advanced medical equipment, including A-lines, invasive lines, chest tubes, and care for patients requiring noninvasive and invasive ventilatory support, cardiac telemetry, and EKG interpretation is essential. Advanced nursing principles and procedures are required.

Pediatric experience is preferred, along with experience in post-heart catheterization. Ability to manage common IV medications including, but not limited to, heparin, diltiazem, dobutamine, milrinone, amiodarone, and dopamine is necessary.