Neonatal Nurse Practitioner or Neonatal Physician Assistant - PRN

Responsibilities

This job enhances the nature and quality of care for at‑risk or critically ill neonates/infants. It works in collaboration with the Medical Director or approved staff physician, the NICU Unit Director, Operational Coordinator, Clinical Coordinator, staff nurses, discharge coordinator, and staff physicians in planning, implementing and evaluating medical and nursing care. Major areas of responsibility include primary medical management, emergency stabilization of critically ill neonates and infants, emergency transport, preceptorship of NNP students, teaching NICU residents, staff development and education, parental education, discharge planning, data collection for outcome measures and managing a caseload of patients in the NICU with daily rounds.

This position provides 24/7 in‑house coverage for all Neonatal Intensive Care Units and high‑risk deliveries.

• Utilize the approved medical practices process in the delivery of all patient care.
• Communicate pertinent information to families and team members necessary for accurate management of patient care.
• Provide care based on physical, psycho/social, educational, safety and related criteria appropriate to the ages of patients served in assigned areas.
• Maintain required clinical knowledge, technical skills, training and credentials and assume responsibility for professional development.
• Provide education experiences to infants’ families, staff, other health professionals and the community.
• Maintain an attitude of inquiry toward medical practices and patient care outcomes and may develop research methodology.
• Work as a contributing team member and assume a leadership role when needed to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Adapt behavior to the specific patient population, including respect for privacy, method of introduction, adapting explanation of services or procedures, requesting permissions and communication style.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required – Master’s degree in nursing (except for those employed prior to 2003 with NNP certificate).

Required – 2 years of related nursing experience.

• Current Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Nurse Practitioner License in the state of practice.
• Certification as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner through the National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric, Gynecologic and Neonatal Nursing Specialties (NCC) as directed by the State Board of Nursing.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification from the American Heart Association.
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification.
• S.T.A.B.L.E. certification.

Eligibility for limited prescriptive authority in Louisiana.

• Knowledge of APRN procedures specific to the role: chest tube placement, endotracheal intubation, lumbar puncture, needle thoracotomy, percutaneous central line placement, peripheral artery puncture and cannulation, removal of thoracotomy tube, suprapubic bladder aspiration, umbilical artery catheterization, umbilical vein catheterization, and ventricular catheter reservoir aspiration.
• Computer skills and dexterity for data entry and retrieval of patient information.
• Proficient with Windows‑style applications and keyboard.
• Ability to work a flexible work schedule (e.g., 24/7, weekend, holiday, on‑call availability).
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to present information clearly and professionally to varying levels of individuals throughout the patient care process.

The position requires medium to light physical work, including exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally and 10 to 25 pounds frequently, with occasional lifting and moving. The incumbent must stand for prolonged periods, stoop, bend, reach, grab, and travel throughout and between facilities. The role involves routine exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue, and potential hazardous medications and waste.

Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

The employer is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.