UHC-RN: Intermediate Care Unit (IMU) at WVU Medicine - Bridgeport, West Virginia

Role Overview

The UHC-RN position within the Intermediate Care Unit (IMU) at United Hospital Center (UHC), part of WVU Medicine, is a vital role responsible for delivering comprehensive nursing care to patients requiring a higher level of monitoring and intervention. This position demands a registered nurse with a strong foundation in clinical skills, critical thinking, and patient-centered care. The RN in the IMU works collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients with complex medical needs. This role requires the nurse to utilize the nursing process effectively, apply evidence-based practices, and maintain a commitment to continuous professional development.

A Day in the Life

A typical day for a UHC-RN in the Intermediate Care Unit involves a variety of tasks and responsibilities:

• Patient Assessment: Conducting thorough assessments of patients' physical, emotional, and psychosocial status to identify their immediate and ongoing needs.
• Care Planning: Developing and modifying individualized care plans based on assessment data, patient goals, and interprofessional collaboration.
• Medication Administration: Administering medications safely and accurately, monitoring patients for adverse reactions, and educating patients about their medications.
• Monitoring Vital Signs: Continuously monitoring patients' vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation, and responding promptly to changes.
• Wound Care: Providing wound care and dressing changes as needed, following established protocols to promote healing and prevent infection.
• Ventilator Management: Assisting with and monitoring patients on mechanical ventilation, ensuring proper settings and responding to alarms.
• Patient Education: Educating patients and their families about their conditions, treatment plans, and self-care strategies.
• Collaboration: Collaborating with physicians, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care.
• Documentation: Maintaining accurate and timely documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes in the electronic health record.
• Emergency Response: Responding to medical emergencies and initiating appropriate interventions, such as CPR or administration of emergency medications.

Why Bridgeport, West Virginia?

Bridgeport, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to larger city amenities. Located in Harrison County, Bridgeport provides a family-friendly environment with excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community. The area boasts a lower cost of living compared to many other parts of the United States, making it an attractive place to live for healthcare professionals. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to state parks and recreational areas, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Bridgeport's location also provides convenient access to major cities like Morgantown and Pittsburgh, offering a wider range of cultural and entertainment options.

Career Path

The UHC-RN position in the Intermediate Care Unit at WVU Medicine provides numerous opportunities for career advancement. Registered Nurses can advance within the clinical ladder, taking on roles with increasing levels of responsibility and expertise. Opportunities include:

• Clinical Nurse Specialist: A Clinical Nurse Specialist is an advanced practice registered nurse who provides expert care and consultation in a specialized area of nursing.
• Nurse Educator: A Nurse Educator develops and implements educational programs for nursing staff to enhance their knowledge and skills.
• Nurse Manager: A Nurse Manager oversees the daily operations of a nursing unit, managing staff, ensuring quality patient care, and implementing organizational policies.
• Charge Nurse: A Charge Nurse is responsible for coordinating patient care and supervising staff on a specific shift.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for a UHC-RN in the Intermediate Care Unit at WVU Medicine in Bridgeport, West Virginia, typically falls between $65,000 and $95,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and certifications. WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off (PTO) for vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Retirement Plan: 401k retirement plan with employer matching contributions.
• Life Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance.
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability insurance options.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Tuition reimbursement or assistance for continuing education and professional development.
• Employee Discounts: Discounts on WVU Medicine services and products, as well as other local businesses.
• Wellness Programs: Wellness programs and resources to support employee health and well-being.

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to creating a supportive and collaborative work environment where employees are valued and empowered to provide the best possible care. WVU Medicine fosters a culture of teamwork, respect, and continuous learning. The organization emphasizes patient-centered care, focusing on the individual needs and preferences of each patient. WVU Medicine is also dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees and patients are treated with dignity and respect.

How to Apply

To apply for the UHC-RN position in the Intermediate Care Unit at WVU Medicine, please visit the WVU Medicine Careers website. Search for the job title "UHC-RN: Intermediate Care Unit (IMU)" and location "Bridgeport, West Virginia." Follow the instructions to complete the online application and submit your resume and cover letter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position?

   The minimum qualifications include a current Registered Nurse (RN) license in West Virginia or a multi-state license through the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 30 days of hire, and one year of registered nursing experience.

2. Is a BSN required for this position?

   A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is preferred but not required.

3. What are the typical responsibilities of a UHC-RN in the IMU?

   Typical responsibilities include patient assessment, care planning, medication administration, monitoring vital signs, wound care, ventilator management, patient education, collaboration with other healthcare professionals, and documentation.

4. What is the salary range for this position?

   The salary range for this position is typically between $65,000 and $95,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and certifications.

5. What benefits are offered by WVU Medicine?

   WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, disability insurance, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, and employee discounts.

6. What is the work environment like at WVU Medicine?

   WVU Medicine is committed to creating a supportive and collaborative work environment where employees are valued and empowered to provide the best possible care.

7. What opportunities are there for career advancement?

   Opportunities for career advancement include clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator, nurse manager, and charge nurse positions.

8. How can I apply for this position?

   To apply, please visit the WVU Medicine Careers website and search for the job title and location.

9. What is the patient population in the Intermediate Care Unit?

   The Intermediate Care Unit cares for patients with complex medical needs requiring a higher level of monitoring and intervention than a general medical-surgical unit.

10. Is there a sign-on bonus or relocation assistance available?

    Sign-on bonuses and relocation assistance may be available depending on the specific position and candidate qualifications. Please inquire with the hiring manager for more information.