LTAC ICU Registered Nurse
Odessa, TX
Magnet Medical
3x12 hrs, Days

A Registered Nurse (RN) in Long-Term Acute Care (LTAC) provides specialized care for patients with complex medical conditions that require extended hospitalization and intensive treatment. These patients may have multiple chronic illnesses, severe injuries, or require prolonged recovery after surgery or illness. The RN in LTAC works closely with a multidisciplinary team to manage patient care, monitor vital signs, administer treatments, and provide ongoing support to patients and families. The role requires strong clinical skills, the ability to manage complex patient needs, and a compassionate approach to care.

Key Responsibilities:

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   Patient Assessment and Monitoring:

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   • Conduct thorough assessments of patients' physical and emotional conditions upon admission, during care, and on an ongoing basis.
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   • Regularly monitor patients’ vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate.
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   • Identify and promptly report any changes in a patient's condition to the healthcare team, including signs of deterioration or complications.
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   • Document and track patient conditions, progress, and interventions in the electronic health record (EHR).
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   Care Planning and Implementation:

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   • Develop, implement, and revise individualized care plans in collaboration with the healthcare team, addressing both short-term and long-term patient needs.
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   • Administer prescribed medications and treatments accurately, monitoring for side effects, and ensuring patient safety.
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   • Assist with procedures such as wound care, catheter insertion, tracheostomy care, and tube feedings, based on patient needs.
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   • Monitor and manage patients’ pain levels, providing interventions as necessary to ensure patient comfort.
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   Complex Care Management:

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   • Manage patients with complex, multi-system conditions, including those on ventilators, dialysis, or requiring continuous oxygen therapy.
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   • Provide respiratory support to patients with compromised lung function or those who are weaning off mechanical ventilation.
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   • Assist with and monitor physical, occupational, and speech therapy interventions, ensuring patient progress towards recovery goals.
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   • Provide care for patients with tracheostomies, central lines, or other invasive devices, ensuring proper care and prevention of complications.
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   Patient and Family Education:

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   • Educate patients and families about the care plan, medications, and equipment used in long-term care, such as ventilators, feeding tubes, or dialysis.
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   • Provide emotional support to both patients and families, offering resources for coping with chronic illness or long-term hospitalization.
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   • Teach patients and families techniques for managing at-home care, including wound care, medication administration, and lifestyle changes.
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   Collaboration with the Healthcare Team:

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   • Work as part of a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, and dietitians, to provide comprehensive care to patients.
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   • Participate in care planning and team meetings, offering input on patient progress and care adjustments as necessary.
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   • Communicate regularly with team members about patient status, concerns, and any changes in the care plan.
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   Infection Control and Safety:

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   • Follow strict infection control protocols to prevent healthcare-associated infections, especially in high-risk patients.
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   • Ensure the safe administration of medications and treatments, adhering to best practices for patient safety and comfort.
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   • Monitor patients for signs of infection, pressure ulcers, or other complications and provide prompt interventions.
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   Documentation and Record-Keeping:

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   • Maintain accurate and timely documentation of patient care, assessments, medications, and progress in EHR systems.
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   • Document all interactions, treatments, and observations according to facility standards and regulatory requirements.
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   • Ensure that documentation complies with health regulations such as HIPAA and other relevant patient privacy laws.
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   End-of-Life and Palliative Care:

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   • Provide compassionate care for patients nearing the end of life, focusing on comfort, dignity, and emotional support for both the patient and their family.
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   • Work with the healthcare team to develop palliative care plans, addressing pain management, symptom control, and psychological support.
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   • Support families through decision-making and offer guidance in advance care planning when appropriate.
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