Vascular Access Nurse

Summary

• Position Summary
  • Under general supervision of the Manager of Specialty Services, the Vascular Access Nurse is responsible for the facilitating and coordinating in conjunction with health care teams, the insertion and care of intravenous therapies and venous access devices. Utilizes the Nursing Process to care for pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients based on current standards of practice. Functions within the permissible scope of nursing practice as defined by the Georgia Board of Nursing and St. Joseph's/Candler Health System policies and procedures. Maintains open communication and is available to component organizations & practitioner sites for consultation.
• Education
  • Bachelors of Nursing - Required
• Experience
  • 1 Year Registered Nurse, IV Therapy Experience - Required
  • Completed an approved PICC Course and successfully completed all requirements.  Have specific knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the vascular system, including fluids and electrolytes, as it relates to other systems and to intravenous treatment modalities.
• License & Certification
  • Registered Nurse License with State of Practice - Required
  • National Certification in Vascular Access or IV Therapy - Required within one year of hire
• Core Job Functions
  • Serves as consultant for infusion or vascular access related policies and procedures in the Hospital. Maintains up to date knowledge of evidence based practice standards for vascular access nursing and participates in translating evidence into practice by developing, implementing and evaluating change efforts for effectiveness.
  • Reviews patient clinical data and relevant history and evaluates patient for appropriate device, insertion site and size following medical staff approved protocols when appropriate. Demonstrates excellent critical thinking skills and uses sound judgment and insight when setting priorities.  Documents required clinical elements such as the Central Line Insertion checklist accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Identifies opportunities for performance improvement, evidence based practice changes, standardization of supplies and cost containment. Investigate complications and report findings to Nursing Leadership with suggested plans of action.  Collects and analyzes clinical and operational data as requested and collaborates on an ongoing basis to develop action plans for improvement.
  • Demonstrate ongoing competency in peripheral IV insertion with and without ultrasound guidance, midlines, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) and non-tunneled central venous catheters as appropriate within the scope of practice. Proficient in identifying vascular anatomy as appropriate cannulation sites as well as contraindications and complications of each site.  Success rate greater than 95% for device insertion.