PICU Staff Nurse Job Description Template
As a PICU Staff Nurse, you will be responsible for delivering advanced nursing care to critically ill children in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Your duties will include assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating patient care, as well as coordinating with the healthcare team to provide comprehensive treatment to young patients.
Responsibilities
- Assess and monitor the condition of critically ill pediatric patients.
- Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by medical staff.
- Collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized patient care plans.
- Provide emotional support and education to patients' families.
- Maintain accurate and thorough medical records.
- Respond to medical emergencies with swift, appropriate action.
- Ensure a sterile and organized environment in the PICU.
- Participate in continuing education and training programs.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from an accredited program.
- Valid RN license within the state of practice.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) or similar critical care setting.
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification.
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Skills
- Pediatric patient care
- Critical care nursing
- Medication administration
- Patient assessment
- Medical recordkeeping
- Emergency response
- Family education and support
- Sterile technique
Frequently Asked Questions
A PICU Staff Nurse, or Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Nurse, provides specialized nursing care to critically ill infants and children. They monitor vital signs, administer medications, and collaborate with pediatricians to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Their role includes offering emotional support to families and utilizing advanced medical technologies to stabilize patients.
To become a PICU Staff Nurse, candidates must first obtain an RN license by completing a nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Gaining pediatric nursing experience, often through internships or residencies, is crucial. Specialized certifications, such as Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), can enhance qualifications and employment opportunities in PICU settings.
The average salary for a PICU Staff Nurse varies based on location, experience, and education. Generally, it tends to be higher than that of a general RN, due to the specialized skills required. Benefits often include healthcare, retirement plans, and opportunities for overtime. Prospective nurses should research local salary ranges to better understand compensation trends.
A PICU Staff Nurse must possess an active RN license and typically have completed courses in pediatric nursing. Certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and experience in critical care settings are highly recommended. Strong assessment skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to work under pressure are essential attributes for this demanding role.
A PICU Staff Nurse requires specialized skills in pediatric critical care, including proficiency in monitoring equipment and life-support technology. Responsibilities include administering medication, developing care plans, and coordinating with multi-disciplinary teams. Effective communication, critical thinking, and a compassionate approach are crucial for managing both patient care and family interactions.