Registered Nurse (RN), Cardiac Surgery ICU, Nights

As a Registered Nurse (RN) in the Cardiac Surgery ICU at UMMC, your responsibilities include independently providing and coordinating care for patients, participating actively in unit governance, and collaborating within a multidisciplinary patient care team. You'll be expected to demonstrate full nursing professional practice, focusing on improving patient outcomes, satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness. Patient safety is also a key aspect of your role, where you'll contribute to safety initiatives and take action against any risks.

To qualify for the Registered Nurse (RN) position in the Cardiac Surgery ICU at UMMC, you must hold a current licensure in Maryland or be eligible to practice under Compact state agreements. You'll need to have at least 12 months of relevant clinical experience, demonstrate effective interpersonal skills, and satisfy continuing education requirements annually. Membership in a professional nursing organization is also required, ensuring you're up-to-date with industry standards.

UMMC places a strong emphasis on professional development, encouraging Registered Nurses (RN) in the Cardiac Surgery ICU to maintain their skills and knowledge through ongoing education. Each RN is required to complete a minimum of 10 contact hours of education each year. Additionally, UMMC nurtures a collaborative environment where nurses can participate in unit governance and contribute to practices aimed at refining patient care strategies.

The salary range for a Registered Nurse (RN) working in the Cardiac Surgery ICU at UMMC is between $37 and $51.81 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, UMMC offers shift differentials, allowing nurses to earn more based on the time they work, coupled with a comprehensive benefits package that supports both personal and professional well-being.

Essential skills for a Registered Nurse (RN) at UMMC's Cardiac Surgery ICU include exemplary clinical knowledge, strong interpersonal and communication abilities, and proficiency in using computer systems for patient management. Your capability to lead as a charge nurse or clinical resource is vital, along with a deep understanding of patient care tailored to specific populations and their age-related needs.

In a high-pressure environment like the Cardiac Surgery ICU, prioritizing tasks effectively is crucial. Start by assessing the urgency of the patient needs and determining which patients require immediate attention. Communicate with your team to delegate responsibilities clearly and review care plans regularly to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Emphasize your ability to remain adaptable and calm under pressure, which allows you to provide the best care possible.

When recounting a challenging situation, focus on a specific instance where patient care was at stake. Describe the scenario clearly, identify the challenges you faced, and explain the steps you took to address the issues, including collaboration with the healthcare team. Highlight the positive patient outcome and any lessons learned that improved your approach to nursing care moving forward.

Effective communication is key in nursing. I start by actively listening to patients and families, ensuring I fully understand their concerns. I use simple language to explain complex medical terms, providing clarity. I encourage questions and foster an open dialogue, ensuring families feel involved and informed in the care process. Empathy and patience are essential to building trust and ensuring effective communication.

Ensuring patient safety in the ICU starts with following established protocols and guidelines. I consistently perform routine checks on equipment and medication, assess the patient environment for hazards, and remain vigilant for any signs of distress in patients. Additionally, I engage actively in patient safety initiatives at UMMC, reporting any near misses or adverse events immediately to improve overall safety standards.

Managing conflicts within a healthcare team requires proactive communication. When conflicts arise, I prefer to address them directly with the involved parties, aiming for a solution that benefits the team and patient care. I focus on actively listening, understanding different perspectives, and finding common ground. If resolution is challenging, I involve a supervisor or mediator to facilitate a constructive discussion to resolve the issue.

The most challenging aspect of working in the Cardiac Surgery ICU is managing the emotional toll of critical patient situations. Patients' conditions can change rapidly, and families experience heightened stress. It's essential to maintain professionalism and empathy while ensuring solid clinical decision-making. Building resilience through teamwork and support helps navigate these challenges effectively.

Staying current with advancements in nursing and cardiac care involves continuous education and engagement in professional organizations. I subscribe to nursing journals, attend relevant workshops and conferences, and participate in online forums that discuss recent research and clinical practices. Establishing a network with fellow professionals also aids in sharing knowledge and learning about the latest trends.

I demonstrate leadership as a Registered Nurse by proactively seeking opportunities to enhance team performance and patient care. This includes mentoring new staff, influencing best practices, and participating in decision-making forums. I also lead by example, showcasing strong ethical practices and advocating for both patients and colleagues, which fosters a culture of collaboration and respect.

When educating patients on cardiac health, I tailor my approach based on each patient's unique needs, ensuring the information is relevant and easily understood. I use teach-back methods to confirm comprehension and encourage questions. This interaction not only empowers patients to manage their health but fosters a partnership in their care journey, which is essential for improving their cardiac health outcomes.

If I noticed a colleague struggling with a patient’s care, I would first assess the situation discreetly to understand the challenges they are facing. I would offer my assistance either directly or by suggesting we collaborate on a care plan. It's essential to approach the situation with empathy and support, as this promotes teamwork and ensures the best outcome for our patients.