Registered Nurse (RN) Intensive Care Unit

ICU: Intensive Care Unit

This is a mixed Critical Care (ICU) 15 bed and Step down (IMCU) 5 bed unit. The unit has 15 private rooms with Phillips monitoring and state of the art Hil Rom technology with low air loss, continual lateral rotation, and percussion capabilities. We serve a broad range of patient conditions and provide services for neurology, cardiology, gastroenterology, oncology, nephrology, and surgical patients. We also have a phenomenal palliative care team that helps guide our nurses with that special touch at end of life. We have critical care NP/PA on sight 24/7 and have daily interdisciplinary rounds where the nurses provide valuable input and add insight to their patient’s care. Registered nurses can expect a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio depending on patient needs and a 12-hour shift schedule with rotating weekends. Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital is a primary plus stroke center. We provide care based on the American Stroke Association (ASA) treatment guidelines for the early management of adults with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Some other specialty highlights include ventriculostomy monitoring, NICOM, balloon pump, transvenous pacing, CRRT, and many more.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Registered Nurse (RN) - New Graduate delivers nursing and patient care during the first year of practice while transitioning from academic preparation to independent professional practice. Working under the guidance of preceptors and experienced registered nurses and supported by the organization's nurse residency and onboarding program, this role assesses patients, delivers care, administers medications, and documents in the electronic health record within a growing scope of competency. The position matters because a structured, well-supported first year builds the clinical judgment, confidence, and safety habits that shape a nurse's entire career. As competencies are validated, the new graduate takes on progressively greater autonomy and patient complexity, moving steadily toward the full, independent practice of a staff registered nurse.

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is required. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is preferred. Students in progress of obtaining a Registered Nursing License with ICU specific work history or capstone/preceptorship.

MINIMUM REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

Entry level. Zero to one year of nursing experience. Clinical rotations completed during nursing school are expected. 18 Months of Critical care experience preferred ICU experience or Capstone preferred

MINIMUM REQUIRED CERTIFICATION / LICENSURE

Current state RN license is required upon hire. Successful completion of the NCLEX-RN examination is required. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required. ACLS within 90 days of hire, preferred prior to hire NIH certification within 6 months of hire required.

MINIMUM REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

• Foundational nursing knowledge and developing clinical judgment.
• Growing skill in assessment, care planning, and medication administration under guidance.
• Openness to feedback, coaching, and precepted learning.
• Proficiency with the electronic health record and clinical documentation.
• Safe practice within scope and prompt escalation of concerns.
• Time management and prioritization across a patient assignment.
• Clear communication with patients, families, and the care team.
• Commitment to residency education and competency validation.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides nursing and patient care during the first year of practice within a growing scope of competency.
• Works under the guidance of preceptors and experienced registered nurses to build clinical skills and judgment.
• Completes patient assessments and contributes to individualized care plans.
• Administers medications and treatments safely and escalates concerns promptly.
• Participates in the nurse residency, onboarding, and competency validation program.
• Documents assessments, interventions, and outcomes in the electronic health record.
• Takes on progressively greater autonomy and patient complexity as competencies are validated.
• Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team and communicates clearly with patients and families.
• Follows safety, infection control, and DNV/CMS standards at all times.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.