Nicu Staff Nurse

Role & responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

1. Patient Care & Monitoring

• Provide round-the-clock care for premature and critically ill newborns.
• Monitor vital signs, oxygen levels, and overall condition of neonates.
• Administer medications, IV fluids, and nutritional support as prescribed.
• Assist with medical procedures such as intubation, resuscitation, and ventilator management.
• Ensure proper use and maintenance of NICU equipment, such as incubators and ventilators.

2. Family Support & Education

• Educate and support parents regarding newborn care, feeding, and bonding.
• Provide emotional support and counseling to families coping with NICU admissions.
• Guide parents through discharge planning, including home care instructions.

3. Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with neonatologists, pediatricians, respiratory therapists, and other NICU staff.
• Document patient progress, changes, and interventions in medical records.
• Participate in team meetings and treatment planning discussions.

4. Infection Control & Safety

• Adhere to strict hygiene and infection control protocols.
• Ensure a safe and sterile environment for neonates.
• Recognize and report any signs of infection or complications.

5. Emergency Response

• Be prepared to handle neonatal emergencies, including respiratory distress and cardiac arrest.
• Assist in neonatal transport when needed.

Qualifications & Requirements:

Education & Certification:

• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN preferred).
• Valid Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification required.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certifications preferred.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in high-pressure and emotionally demanding situations.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Attention to detail and strong observational abilities.
• Compassionate and patient-centered approach.

Experience:

• Previous experience in neonatal, pediatric, or critical care nursing preferred.
• New graduate nurses with relevant clinical rotations may be considered.

Work Environment & Schedule:

• Hospital-based role, primarily in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
• Shifts may include days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Standing, lifting, and responding to urgent medical situations required.

Career Growth & Opportunities:

• Advanced certifications (e.g., RNC-NIC for neonatal nursing).
• Opportunities for specialization in neonatal transport, lactation consulting, or developmental care.
• Potential advancement to Charge Nurse, Nurse Educator, or NICU Nurse Practitioner (with further education).