ICU Registered Nurse (RN)

Job Overview

The ICU Registered Nurse (RN) is responsible for providing inpatient-level nursing care to patients who are boarded in the Emergency Department while waiting for transfer to an inpatient bed. This role is crucial in supporting patient safety, optimizing throughput, and ensuring continuity of care during times of high hospital occupancy.

Scheduling Structure

• Night Shift: Scheduled from Sunday night through Thursday night.
• Day Shift: Scheduled from Monday through Friday.
• 12-hour shifts, with potential scheduling patterns that may include both weekdays and weeknights based on coverage needs.

Patient Care Responsibilities

The expected patient-to-nurse ratio for ICU Boarder RNs is up to 2 patients (2:1). Patient care may include:

• Ventilated patients
• Patients requiring vasoactive infusions
• Other critical care needs while boarding in the Emergency Department

Floating Requirements

This position focuses exclusively on caring for admitted patients within the Emergency Department. RNs in this role are not required to take regular Emergency Department patient assignments. However, if departmental or organizational needs change, RNs may be asked to provide care in another unit that is consistent with their clinical competencies and skill set.

Experience Requirements

• Recent critical care experience is required.
• Competence with ventilators, intravenous drips, and high-acuity patients is preferred.
• Active RN license.
• Current certifications: Basic Life Support (BLS), NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).

Work Environment

This role is situated in a fast-paced Emergency Department setting, delivering care to admitted patients awaiting inpatient beds. Collaboration will occur with Emergency Department physicians, hospitalists, ICU teams, and inpatient services. Support staff will be available according to the resources of the Emergency Department.

Key Expectations

• Demonstrate strong inpatient clinical skills.
• Ability to work independently in a dynamic environment.
• Flexible and collaborative teamwork approach.
• Clear communication with interdisciplinary teams.
• Commitment to patient safety and quality care.