RN IV SPECIALIST-Full Time/Variable Hours

Job Description

The I.V. Specialist is a member of the vascular access team and is a registered nurse who has expertise in vascular access. This individual is an expert in the clinical and technical skills of vascular access which includes the ability to assess venous status, anticipate the patient's vascular access needs based on diagnosis and physician orders and maintenance of vascular access for the patient. The specialist performs as both a professional and clinical role model and is an effective leader and communicator. The registered nurse practices according to professional nursing standards.

Responsibilities

Serves as a resource to nursing staff on vascular access related issues and assists the staff nurse in insertion of IVs on patients having poor venous access.

Responsible and accountable for maintaining knowledge in vascular access therapy related to all populations including acute inpatient, outpatient, and critical care, for adults, pediatric, and elderly patients.

Demonstrates the necessary clinical knowledge/technical expertise required to insert and maintain vascular access for all patient populations. Assesses the patient for vascular access needs and confers with medical team regarding patient's short or long term vascular access plan.

Demonstrates the ability to evaluate central venous & dialysis catheter occlusions and utilizes fibrinolytic agent to restore catheter patency

Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to assess, insert, and monitor PICC access; including using ultrasound for insertion. (This applies only to those trained for PICC insertion)

Promotes research-based practice in the insertion of difficult vascular access placements.

Involved in Process Improvement of I vascular access care delivery by working with various Centra teams to monitor central venous catheter infection, phlebitis rates and other indicators as identified.

Meets professional development educational requirements.

Maintains vascular access specialist competencies. Maintains knowledge base in relations to the specialty and shares this knowledge with others.

Manages the care and movement of equipment between patient care areas, patient rooms, storage areas, and facilities observing safe personal ergonomics, proper infection control practices, and thoughtful handling to avoid injury, spread of infection, and/or equipment damage.

Qualifications

Required Education: Associates Degree.

Required Certifications & Licensures: Registered Nurse Active License in the State of Virginia. Hold a current, active BLS Provider certification. Hold a current, active American Heart Association Basic Life Support (AHA BLS) course completion card.

Effective April 1, 2024, candidates seeking employment in this role at Centra must possess a valid and current American Heart Association Basic Life Support (AHA BLS Provider or AHA BLS Instructor) course completion card. Proof of certification will be mandatory prior to commencing employment. Both AHA and RQI cards are acceptable forms of certification.