POSITION DUTIES:

As a nurse specialist, the incumbent will provide an advanced level of specialized nursing care to assigned critically ill patients. Such patients are either recovering from major surgery or are characterized by the presence of real or potential life-threatening health problems due to the requirement for continuous observation and intervention to prevent complications and restore health.

--In the absence of a physician, independently determines and implements proper emergency measures after identifying and interpreting life-threatening conditions by initiating life-saving measures. Within given parameters, initiates advanced cardiovascular life support measures by mixing and administering special, potent and lethal drugs (nipride, dopamine, atropine, nitroglycerin, dobutamine, etc.) as well as intravenous fluids. Administers special medications via oral, intramuscular, subcutaneous, intradermal, etc. (including intravenous push) routes. Defibrillates if ventricular fibrillation occurs without physician in attendance, under established guidelines. Performs various pulmonary ventilation treatments such as administration of oxygen and compressed air through various means. Administers a variety of respiratory therapy treatments as prescribed. (35%)

--Assists physicians with complex or potentially life-threatening procedures such as cardioversion and insertion of invasive lines, e.g., arterial, venous, and pulmonary artery catheters. Discontinues invasive lines as ordered, under established guidelines. Maintains invasive lines and dressings as prescribed by Infection Control Policies/Procedures and Guidelines. Assists physician with preparation, insertion, and inflation of intra aortic balloon. Assesses patients' response regarding cardiac output, vital signs, peripheral perfusion, and level of consciousness. Performs continuous respiratory ventilation assessments evaluating blood gas results of both arterial and mixed venous. Makes appropriate adjustments in preparation for extubation, within established guidelines. (25%)

--Independently formulates data base relative to patients' psychological, sociological, and physiological condition in order to provide assessment of the patients' problems, strengths, and limitations. Monitors patient's condition through data collected by continuous observation and precise calculation of fluid levels and vital signs. Determines, prescribes, and implements nursing orders. Evaluates nursing interventions based on patient's response and revises nursing care plan accordingly. (15%)

--Develops meaningful goals to assist the critically ill patient and family in attaining the optimum level of physiological, sociological, and psychological balance within the limitations imposed by the illness. Provides constant support to patient and family by providing information on disease process, pre-operative and post-operative care, diagnostic procedures, use of equipment related to disease/care, expected and possible adverse reactions to medications, health maintenance, and illness prevention. On a consultation or referral basis, refers patient/family to allied health care providers such as Chaplain, Community Health Nurse, Social Worker, etc., as needed/required. (15%)

--As an expert in the nursing care of critically ill patients in one or more areas (coronary care, surgical, neurological, medical, etc.), serves as a resource person with whom other critical care nurses and other health care providers consult when particularly difficult problems in the care of critically ill patients arise. Serves as role model to experienced critical care nurses as well as those who are not fully trained. Provides guidance and leadership to other professional nurses and supervises Para-professional personnel. Provide orientation and on-the-job training for such personnel. (10%)

Performs other duties as assigned.