Learn about the important requirements, obligations, responsibilities, and skills that should be in an ICU nurse job description.
An intensive care unit (ICU) nurse provides care to critically ill or seriously injured patients in intensive care wards of hospitals or other medical facilities. They assess the patient’s condition, run diagnostic tests, administer medication, document progress, and keep in contact with other medical providers and the patient’s family.
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ICU Nurse Job Description Template
We’re seeking an experienced and compassionate ICU nurse to care for our most medically needy patients. As an ICU nurse, you’ll treat patients recovering from major surgeries, strokes, heart attacks, and other serious ailments.
You’ll help diagnose medical concerns, administer medication, monitor patient vital signs and recovery, communicate with other providers and the patient’s family, and prepare required documentation. You must have top-notch communication skills, handle sensitive information with discretion, and respond to medical emergencies with a level head.
ICU Nurse Responsibilities
- Evaluate a patient’s condition through observation, conducting interviews, and performing diagnostic tests
- Create care plans by collaborating with other providers
- Administer medication as prescribed by the attending physician
- Clean and redress surgical sites and other wounds
- Monitor the patient’s vital signs and recovery closely
- Keep the patient’s family and other providers updated on the patient's progress
- Handle medical emergencies calmly
- Maintain medical records and file required reports on each case
ICU Nurse Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Registered Nurse license
- 5+ years of experience providing intensive care
- Knowledge of the latest medical equipment and nursing techniques
- The ability to work long shifts, day or night
- The ability to remain calm under pressure
ICU Nurse Duties And Responsibilities
Evaluate Patient Condition
When a patient first comes into the ICU or displays new symptoms, you must evaluate their condition quickly. Check for visible wounds or signs of medical distress. Ask the patient (if possible) or family about what happened. Order appropriate diagnostic tests such as blood work, X-rays, or an MRI.
If you want to become a nurse, learn more by reading our guide on how to become a nurse.
Create Care Plan
Collaborate with the attending physician and other medical providers to create a patient care plan. The plan should include medication administration, a room visit schedule, and specialized therapeutic services like occupational therapy. The plan should also have a treatment timeline and milestones, with the ultimate goal of discharging the patient from the ICU.
Monitor the Patient
As you work the care plan with the patient, you must continuously monitor their condition and progress. Be sure to keep up with the visit schedule in the care plan and note any changes in the patient’s appearance, demeanor, capabilities, or symptoms. If the patient’s condition worsens, speak with other care team members to modify the care plan as needed.
Update Providers and Family
Each time you see the patient, you should update the patient’s family and the rest of the care team – even if there’s been no change in the patient’s condition. Keeping the lines of communication open with other medical providers ensures the best coordination of care for the patient. Communicating openly with the patient’s family makes them feel seen and supported during a difficult time.
Create and Maintain Medical Records
You must document everything that happens with a patient while they’re under your care. Keep logs of your visits that include medication and treatment administered, and the patient’s condition, activity level, and overall progress. Share your notes with other members of the patient’s care team and prepare required forms when appropriate, such as discharge paperwork.
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ICU Nurse Salary And Job Outlook
Median National Salary: $122,000
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
Number of Jobs: 3,100,000+
Job Growth 2021 – 2031: 6% (average)
The Bottom Line
We’re confident you can write a compelling ICU nurse job description that attracts the ideal medical professional to your facility. Once you’ve finished it, post it on ZipRecruiter right away! Then, consider listing the position on one or more of the best free job posting sites. That way, you increase your chances of finding an all-star ICU nurse without spending another cent.
