Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

Job Description

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of neonatal patients, including physical assessments, monitoring vital signs, and evaluating developmental status.
• Provide specialized nursing care to critically ill neonates, including those born prematurely, with low birth weight, or with congenital anomalies.
• Administer and monitor respiratory therapies, including oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), and high-frequency ventilation.
• Ensure appropriate thermal management for neonates, including monitoring body temperature, adjusting incubator or radiant warmer settings, and providing skin-to-skin care (kangaroo care).
• Assist with feeding plans and nutritional support for neonates, including breastfeeding support, enteral feeding, and parenteral nutrition as needed.
• Administer medications, intravenous fluids, and blood products to neonates, calculating dosages based on weight and gestational age and monitoring for adverse reactions.
• Implement strict infection control practices to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections, including proper hand hygiene, aseptic techniques, and isolation precautions.
• Provide emotional support and education to parents and family members of neonates, including information about their baby's condition, treatment plan, and developmental care practices.
• Collaborate with neonatologists, pediatricians, respiratory therapists, and other members of the healthcare team to develop and implement individualized care plans for neonatal patients.
• Maintain accurate and detailed electronic medical records (EMR) of patient assessments, nursing interventions, medication administration, and response to treatment.
• Respond to medical emergencies and acute changes in patients' conditions, initiating appropriate interventions and coordinating with the healthcare team to stabilize neonates in crisis situations.
• Stay updated on current evidence-based practices and guidelines in neonatal nursing through ongoing education, training, and professional development activities.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing patient outcomes, improving safety practices, and optimizing the delivery of care within the NICU.