## VAIS Outpatient Infusion/Special Procedures RN at WVU Medicine - Wheeling Hospital (WHH) ### Role Overview As a VAIS (Vascular Access and Infusion Services) Outpatient Infusion/Special Procedures Registered Nurse (RN) at WVU Medicine's Wheeling Hospital, you will play a pivotal role in delivering exceptional patient care through the administration of intravenous therapies and the execution of specialized medical procedures. This position offers a unique opportunity to combine advanced nursing skills with a patient-centered approach in an outpatient setting. Your responsibilities will encompass the entire spectrum of patient care, from initial assessment and care plan development to the safe and effective administration of infusions and the continuous monitoring of patient responses. You will collaborate closely with physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that each patient receives individualized care that meets their specific needs. This role demands a highly skilled and compassionate RN with a strong foundation in infusion therapy, vascular access, and related special procedures. The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication skills, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and clinical excellence. ### A Day in the Life Here's a glimpse into the daily activities of a VAIS Outpatient Infusion/Special Procedures RN at Wheeling Hospital: * **Patient Assessment:** Conducting thorough assessments of patients' medical history, current condition, and specific needs related to infusion therapy or special procedures. * **Care Planning:** Developing and implementing individualized care plans based on patient assessments, physician orders, and established protocols. * **Vascular Access:** Initiating and maintaining peripheral and central intravenous lines, ensuring proper placement and patency. * **Infusion Administration:** Preparing and administering a wide range of intravenous medications, including antibiotics, chemotherapy agents, biologics, and other specialty infusions. * **Patient Monitoring:** Continuously monitoring patients during and after infusions for adverse reactions, complications, and therapeutic responses. * **Special Procedures:** Assisting physicians with various special procedures, such as bone marrow biopsies, lumbar punctures, and paracentesis. * **Medication Management:** Ensuring accurate medication preparation, storage, and administration. * **Patient Education:** Providing comprehensive education to patients and their families regarding their treatment plan, potential side effects, and self-care instructions. * **Documentation:** Maintaining accurate and detailed patient records, including infusion logs, medication administration records, and progress notes. * **Collaboration:** Communicating and collaborating effectively with physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care. * **Emergency Response:** Responding promptly and effectively to medical emergencies, such as anaphylaxis or infusion-related reactions. * **Quality Improvement:** Participating in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient safety and clinical outcomes. ### Why Wheeling, West Virginia? Wheeling, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Wheeling provides residents with access to a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing. The city boasts a rich history and culture, with numerous historical landmarks, museums, and art galleries. Wheeling also offers a vibrant downtown area with a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Living in Wheeling provides a lower cost of living compared to many other cities, making it an attractive option for those seeking a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. The community is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to feel at home. Wheeling Hospital, part of the WVU Medicine system, is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care. Working at Wheeling Hospital provides the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients in the local community. ### Career Path The VAIS Outpatient Infusion/Special Procedures RN position at WVU Medicine offers a solid foundation for career advancement within the nursing profession. With experience and continued education, you can pursue opportunities such as: * **Charge Nurse:** Overseeing the daily operations of the infusion center and providing leadership to other nursing staff. * **Clinical Nurse Specialist:** Providing expert clinical consultation and education to nursing staff on infusion therapy and special procedures. * **Nurse Manager:** Managing the overall operations of the infusion center, including staffing, budgeting, and quality improvement. * **Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN):** Pursuing advanced education to become a Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist, allowing you to provide primary care and prescribe medications. * **Leadership Roles:** Opportunities within the WVU Medicine system to lead nursing initiatives and contribute to organizational decision-making. WVU Medicine is committed to supporting the professional development of its employees, offering a variety of educational programs, training opportunities, and mentorship programs to help you achieve your career goals. ### Salary & Benefits The salary range for a VAIS Outpatient Infusion/Special Procedures RN at WVU Medicine's Wheeling Hospital typically falls between $68,000 and $95,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and certifications. WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision coverage * **Paid Time Off (PTO):** Vacation, sick, and personal days * **Retirement Plan:** 401(k) or 403(b) with employer matching * **Life Insurance:** Basic and supplemental life insurance options * **Disability Insurance:** Short-term and long-term disability coverage * **Employee Assistance Program (EAP):** Confidential counseling and support services * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Financial assistance for continuing education * **Professional Development:** Opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, and seminars * **Employee Discounts:** Discounts on WVU Medicine services and products * **Wellness Programs:** Programs to promote employee health and well-being * **Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA):** Pre-tax savings accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses * **Health Savings Accounts (HSA):** Tax-advantaged savings accounts for healthcare expenses ### WVU Medicine Culture WVU Medicine is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for its employees. The organization values teamwork, collaboration, and respect. WVU Medicine is dedicated to providing its employees with the resources and support they need to succeed in their careers. The organization promotes a culture of continuous learning and improvement, encouraging employees to pursue professional development opportunities and to contribute to quality improvement initiatives. WVU Medicine is committed to providing its patients with the highest quality of care, and it expects its employees to share in this commitment. ### How to Apply To apply for the VAIS Outpatient Infusion/Special Procedures RN position at WVU Medicine's Wheeling Hospital, please visit the WVU Medicine Careers website and search for the job opening. Follow the instructions to complete the online application and submit your resume and cover letter. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **1. What are the essential skills for this role?** The essential skills include proficiency in IV insertion, medication administration, patient assessment, and communication. **2. What certifications are required?** A current RN license in West Virginia and BLS certification are mandatory. **3. What is the typical work schedule?** The work schedule typically consists of Monday-Friday daylight hours, but may vary depending on patient needs and staffing requirements. **4. What opportunities are there for professional development?** WVU Medicine offers tuition reimbursement, conference attendance, and various training programs. **5. Is there room for advancement in this role?** Yes, career advancement opportunities include charge nurse, clinical nurse specialist, and nurse manager positions. **6. What type of patients will I be working with?** You will be working with a diverse patient population requiring infusion therapy and special procedures for various medical conditions. **7. How is patient safety prioritized in this role?** Patient safety is a top priority, with strict adherence to protocols, continuous monitoring, and ongoing training. **8. What electronic health record system is used?** WVU Medicine utilizes Epic as its primary electronic health record system. **9. How does WVU Medicine support its nursing staff?** WVU Medicine offers a supportive work environment, mentorship programs, and access to various resources to ensure the well-being of its nursing staff. **10. What is the dress code?** The dress code typically consists of scrubs, adhering to the hospital's professional appearance standards.