Charge Nurse-Vascular Access

Job Summary: The Charge Nurse-Vascular Access, works collaboratively with the manager and director to provide clinical supervision of a highly specialized team of Registered Nurses (RNs) that provide vascular access services in a large Magnet Recognized tertiary academic medical center with level one trauma designation and multiple hospitals. Demonstrates comprehensive nursing knowledge applicable to the specialty practice of vascular access and complex procedures which includes, but is not limited to, difficult peripheral IVs (PIVs), peripheral inserted central catheters (PICC) via ultrasound, ultrasound-guided midline and extended dwell catheters for difficult access patients, therapeutic and phlebotomy. Functions in a fast paced environment and utilizes discretion and independent judgment to prioritize and coordinate daily operations for designated shift based on the needs of the patient population served, established professional practice model (Duffy's Quality-Caring Model), applicable regulatory standards and requirements, and approved standardized procedures, clinical practice standards and policies. Makes assignments based on staff competency, patient acuity, and productivity standards. Assigns and re-assigns staff and workloads to provide uninterrupted, cost effective patient care with optimum productivity. Flexes staff up or down as appropriate. Stays current with clinical practice and provides direct patient care as needed, e.g., lunch relief coverage, emergency situations, higher volume than normal of procedures or vascular access requests, call-offs and short staffing. Serves as an exemplary role model in patient care delivery methods, communication and documentation. Functions within the expectations of a highly proficient professional nurse and meets nursing excellence standards to maintain Magnet Recognition as outlined by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Promotes the empowerment of the nursing profession and excels in implementing new knowledge, innovations and improvements in practice to enhance the patient experience and clinical outcomes. Facilitates a positive environment and provides hands-on guidance to engage staff in adopting a care delivery model of accountability, empowerment, and excellence in practice. Meets qualifications, licensure, certifications and competencies as defined in the department-specific Plan for Providing Care. Contributes to a work environment of caring and cooperation among a culturally diverse workforce and patient population. Performs other duties as needed.

Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science Degree in nursing required. Minimum three years of nursing experience in pediatric or adult vascular access or critical care required. Minimum one year of prior management or supervisory experience preferred.

Knowledge and Skills: Substantial knowledge of vascular access principles and procedural nursing, state and federal healthcare regulations and accreditation, finance, performance improvement, quality, patient safety, evidenced-based clinical practice standards, medical staff structure, legal aspects of care, and nursing scope of practice required. Ability to apply theoretical concepts to clinical practice and continually expands knowledge base and clinical skills with a focus in area of specialty and population served. Obtains cooperation and support from a broad range of licensed and unlicensed staff. Knowledge and application of adult learning principles. Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of staff. Able to read; write and speak with professional quality; use computer and software programs necessary to the position; operate/troubleshoot patient care equipment required for the position. Able to communicate positively, effectively, and professionally with others; provide leadership; be assertive and consistent in enforcing policies ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, rules and laws; think critically; use sound judgment based on factual information and clinical knowledge; work calmly and respond courteously when under pressure; lead, supervise, teach, and collaborate; accept direction. Able to communicate effectively in English (and Spanish preferred) in person, in writing, and on the telephone; think critically; work independently; perform basic math and statistical functions; manage multiple assignments; compose written material; work well under pressure; problem solve; organize and prioritize workload; recall information with accuracy; pay close attention to detail. Able to distinguish colors as necessary; hear sufficiently for general conversation in person and on the telephone, and identify and distinguish various sounds associated with the workplace; see adequately to read computer screens, and written documents necessary to the position.

Licensures and Certifications: Active California Registered Nurse (RN) license required. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification issued by the American Heart Association required. Vascular Access Board Certification preferred.