Critical Care ICU JobSkills / Requirements Valid BLS and ACLS from the American Heart Association A valid professional license within the state of practice / nurse licensure compact Additional requirements for a compact license are 1) verification of suicide training 2) verification of demographic date via Nursys e-Notify. Proof of right to work in the United States Critical care experience in a hospital setting Position Responsibilities Critical Care Nurses (ICU/CCU) provide direct and individualized nursing care to patients based on the application of scientific nursing principles. In addition to general nursing care, responsibilities of Critical Care Nurses include (but are not limited to):Consults and coordinates with health care team members to assess, plan, implement and evaluate patient care plans Prepares and administers (orally, subcutaneously, through an IV) and records prescribed medications. Reports adverse reactions to medications or treatments in accordance with the policy regarding the administration of medications by a licensed registered nurse Provides basic, bedside care Initiates patient education plan, as prescribed by physician. Teaches patients and significant others how to manage their illness/injury, by explaining: post-treatment home care needs, diet/nutrition/exercise programs, self-administration of medication and rehabilitation Records patients' medical information and vital signs Orders, interprets and evaluates diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition Takes samples for lab work, orders prescribed lab work and evaluates/interprets lab reports Prepares equipment and aids physician during examination and treatment of patient Responds to life-saving situations based upon nursing standards and protocol Records all care information concisely, accurately and completely, in a timely manner, in the appropriate format and on the appropriate forms Applies Hemodynamic, Phlebotomy and IV protocols Monitors and adjusts specialized equipment used on patients, and interprets and records electronic displays, such as central venous pressures, pulmonary artery pressures, and cardiac rhythms from cardiac monitors, respirators, ventilators, oxygen pumps, etc. Monitors catheters, leads and tubing for proper placement and functioning Initiates corrective action whenever information from monitoring/life support equipment shows adverse symptomatology
