The intensive care unit (ICU) is a specialized area of the hospital that provides highly advanced medical treatment to patients who are critically ill.
The ICU nurse plays an important role in this process, as they provide direct patient care and ensure that all treatments and procedures are carried out according to plan.
CCU/MICU/SICU Job Duties
Critical Care nurses have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
Preparing patients for procedures including administering medications and performing tests
Observing patients behavior to determine if they are experiencing pain, stress, or discomfort
Documenting patient progress in medical records such as nursing notes and physician orders
Monitoring patients vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and temperature
Administering medications and performing diagnostic tests and procedures such as EKGs, X-rays, CT scans, and endoscopies (using an instrument called a scope to look inside the body)
Providing emotional support to patients and their families
Teaching patients how to manage their health conditions after they are discharged from the hospital
Educating patients on how to prevent infection by following instructions regarding wound care, diet, and activity level restrictions
Performing administrative tasks such as ordering supplies, updating computerized records, and arranging transportation for patients who are discharged from the hospital but still need follow up care at home