Advanced Practice Provider - Cardiac Surgery

Overview

The Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center is seeking a Cardiothoracic P.A./N.P for a dynamic program of 10 surgeons, 3 P.A.’s and 1 N.P. We perform a full range of cardiothoracic procedures including CABG, arrhythmia correction, minimally invasive valve replacement/repair, and complex aortic procedures. We are proud of our internationally recognized cardiac device program, performing LVAD’s, total artificial heart implants, and cardiac transplants.

The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of demonstrated experience in cardiac surgery, including EVH and first assisting. Superior organizational skills, flexibility, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential qualities for this position that reports directly to the Department Chief of Cardiovascular Surgery.

• First and second assisting in the OR on all adult cardiac cases, EVH, pre- and post-operative patient management in conjunction with our team of house staff and nurse practitioners, initial patient consultation, and procedures including, but not limited to, placement of femoral lines, insertion/removal of chest tubes, insertion/removal of IABP’s, and thoracentesis.
• Call expectations:
  No in-house, ICU, or floor call.
• Provide medical and/or surgical care and treatment to a specific patient population under the supervision of physician(s); perform histories and physicals, order and interpret tests, make preliminary diagnoses, treat injuries/illness, assist with surgical procedures, counsel patients and/or prescribe medications as defined by the Virginia Board of Medicine.
• Work collaboratively with the medical team to deliver organized, timely, cost-effective and quality patient care. May supervise support staff. Provide patient care under defined departmental and state-approved scope of practice and under supervision of attending physicians. Supervision level is commensurate with the patient’s condition and approved by the Board of Medicine. Protocols are acknowledged by the Physician Assistant and supervising physicians.

Performance Expectation:
Clinical & Patient Care Responsibilities

• Demonstrates mastery of treatment and patient care of the specialty population served.
• Coordinates patient care across the continuum of services through the patient’s trajectory of illness.
• Assesses health status through histories, physical examinations, screening, diagnostic testing, direct patient care, assisting with surgical procedures, therapeutic interventions, prescribing medication and/or counseling.
• Initiates emergency procedures as needed; practices safety, environmental and infection control methods.
• Makes rounds with attending physicians; supervises and/or coordinates activities of patient care and support staff.
• Documents information in the patient’s medical record and develops treatment plans; prioritizes short- and long-term therapeutic plans.
• Incorporates physical, spiritual, cultural and psychosocial aspects of patients and families into the plan of care.
• Explores strategies to decrease length of stay and resource use; maintains effective communication with the health care team.

Performance Expectation:
Consultation

• Functions as a consultant to other health care professionals; serves as liaison, translator and negotiator for staff, patients and families.
• Collaborates in developing and monitoring the multidisciplinary plan of care for complex patients.
• Participates in patient education and may provide training to residents, fellows and other health care staff.
• Participates in continual assessment and revision of practices and procedures; promotes teamwork and effective communication.

Performance Expectation:
Research

• Uses current research to develop and evaluate standards of care; participates in research, publications, consultation and/or educational activities.
• Demonstrates knowledge and support for clinical trials within the specialty area.

Performance Expectation:
Ethical Decision Making Skills

• Applies clinical judgment in ethical decision making; promotes interdisciplinary collaboration to resolve ethical dilemmas.
• Demonstrates negotiation,…