ICU Registered Nurse (RN)

General Information

We are seeking an experienced ICU Registered Nurse to join our team in a dynamic and fast-paced clinical environment. This mixed-unit ICU comprises MICU, SICU, CICU, and TICU, with a total of 39 beds divided into pods. Nurses will not float into the CVICU side unless they are experienced in that unit.

Minimum Experience Requirements

• 2 years of ICU experience (excluding travel experience) is preferred.
• If the candidate has 1.5 years of ICU experience (excluding travel) and substantial RN experience outside of ICU, approval from the management team may be considered.
• First-time travelers will not be accepted.
• Travelers must reside at least 100 miles away from any facility.
• Permanent staff must wait one year before returning as travelers.

Patient Types

The ICU handles complex patients including but not limited to:

• Surgical
• Medical
• Cardiac (preferred)
• Neuro
• Trauma

Common diagnoses include ARDS, myocardial infarction (MI), CVA/TIA, COVID-19, post-cardiac catheterization, post-surgical, and multiple system trauma—an emphasis on heavy trauma population.

Patient Ratios

RN-to-patient ratios are as follows:

• 1:1
• 1:2
• 1:3 (rare, acuity dependent)

Required Certifications

• BLS
• ACLS
• NIHSS
• TNCC (required) – travelers unwilling to obtain this certification prior to arrival will be declined.

Required Education

Completion of a nursing education program approved by a board of nursing; Registered Nurse (RN) licensure is required in the state of South Dakota.

Skills Required

• Epic experience is required.
• Comfortable working a 48-hour work week contract.
• Experience with diverse ICU patient populations.
• Proficiency in administering IV medications (e.g., vasopressors, sedatives, paralytics), managing hemodynamic lines, proning, ventilator management, telemetry.
• Strong critical thinking and assessment skills, with an ability to work well within a team in a fast-paced setting.
• Experience with Impella, IABP, and CRRT is strongly preferred.
• Applicants should be prepared to share a professional experience that exceeded a leader’s expectations during the interview process.

Support on the Unit

• CNA support will consist of 1-2 nurse aides per unit plus a mobility float aide.
• Charge nurses include two CRNs overseeing all ICU areas.
• Phlebotomy services are available for peripheral blood draws only.
• An IV/VAT team will have ICU CRNs placing all midlines.
• A resource nurse is available based on staffing needs.
• Respiratory therapy is available 24/7.
• There are three intensivists on days and two on nights, along with an Advanced Practice Provider on nights.

Charting System

Charting will primarily be conducted using the Epic system. The unit currently utilizes Alaris systems, transitioning to Baxter Pumps by October, along with Omnicell for medication management.

Floating

Floating is uncommon; however, in cases of overstaffing, there may be opportunities to float to any adult floor, including MedSurg/Tele with a 1:4 ratio. Confirm traveler comfortability during the interview process.

Orientation

Orientation includes:

• Hospital orientation (one 8-hour period for departmental orientation and completion of required iLearns).
• One 4-hour period dedicated to