Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi is a private not-for-profit teaching hospital that provides tertiary and secondary level healthcare services. It is the first hospital in East Africa to be accredited by the Joint Commission International from the USA. The University Hospital has been providing high quality care for the people of East Africa and beyond for over 60 years.Applications are invited from qualified candidates for the above position based in Nairobi Kenya. The position holder will report to the Nurse Manager, HDU Department.Requirements:Higher Diploma in Critical Care Nursing from a recognized school of nursing or UniversityCurrent licensure with the Nursing Council of KenyaAdvanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)Demonstrate evidence based knowledge of current practices in Critical Care nursingResponsibilities:Complete assessment and re-assessment of patients to identify their care needsDevelop written care plans based on patients changing needs, monitor and evaluate effectiveness of interventionsInitiate cardiac monitoring both room and central, be able to interpret monitor trends and communicate critical changes to the physician and Nurse managerCarry out other hemodynamic monitoring to include CVP, ICP, neurological and fluid status; lab, radiological and ABG evaluationsDocument all assessment data, investigation results, care given, discussions with the multidisciplinary team, family/patient interactions in an accurate, comprehensive and timely mannerPrepare for and assist the physician in emergency procedures necessary for prompt control of patient’s condition e.g. intubation, insertion of invasive lines and drainsInitiates mechanical ventilation (invasive and non-invasive) based on physician ordersAssess patient’s readiness for weaning and implement the weaning and extubation protocolsMaintain adequate airway management to include oxygen therapy, nebulization and suctioningPerform pain assessment and initiate analgesia as per protocolBe able to perform hemodialysis as instructed, care for patient undergoing hemodialysis and disconnect patient from the Hemodialysis upon completion of the therapyAccurately administer all medication as per the treatment order sheet. Particular attention is drawn to inotropic support: dilution, calculation and infusionIdentify patient and family education needs and implement appropriate teaching Be able to commence enteral feeds as prescribed, assess absorption and elimination and give feedback as appropriateBe able to recognize a patient in a pre- arrest or arrest states, and to activate Emergency Response Team and actively participate in the resuscitation of the patientProvide safe environment for patients through adherence to infection control practices and other safety policies, and perform timely safety checks on beds, IV pumps, oxygen source, ventilators and cardiac monitors. Be accountable for judicious and efficient use of resources i.e. accurate and timely billing of ward stock drugs and consumablesCare for equipment through proper cleaning, storage, per shift check of the inventory and timely reporting and follow up of nonfunctional equipment to the nurse managerParticipate in unit based nursing education, quality improvement (QI) projects, clinical care program certification (CCPC), audits, spot checks and skill checksParticipate in orientation of new staff and provide mentorship to junior nurses and studentsParticipate in unit based nursing education, quality improvement (QI) projects, audits, spot checks and skill checks Assist in other related Critical Care Units in time of low census Any other assignment that is deemed appropriate for this level.
