Cardiac Surgery Nurse Practitioner / Physician Assistant - South Dakota

iRecruitmd•Rapid City, SD

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Cardiac Surgery Nurse Practitioner / Physician Assistant (NP/PA) Position Summary The Cardiac Surgery Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant provides comprehensive clinical care to patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedures. Working collaboratively with cardiac surgeons and the multidisciplinary care team, this role supports patients throughout the perioperative continuum, including preoperative evaluation, postoperative management, and ongoing inpatient care, with a focus on patient safety, quality outcomes, and continuity of care.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant program
Current NP or PA certification and state licensure
Eligibility for hospital credentialing and privileging
DEA registration or eligibility
Strong clinical assessment and critical care skills
Knowledge of cardiac surgical procedures and postoperative management
Ability to manage complex, high-acuity patients
Excellent communication, teamwork, and organizational skills
Ability to function effectively in fast-paced, high-stress environments
Commitment to evidence-based practice and patient-centered care
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
Manual dexterity for procedural and bedside clinical tasks
Visual and auditory acuity sufficient for patient monitoring and assessment

Nice To Haves

Prior experience or specialized training in cardiac surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, or critical care preferred

Responsibilities

Provide preoperative evaluation and optimization for patients undergoing cardiac surgery
Manage postoperative cardiac surgery patients in the ICU and step-down units
Perform daily assessments, write orders, and develop care plans in collaboration with cardiac surgeons
Monitor hemodynamics and manage postoperative issues including arrhythmias, fluid balance, and pain control
Manage invasive devices such as central lines, arterial lines, chest tubes, pacing wires, and surgical drains
Assist in the operating room as appropriate, including first-assist duties or endoscopic vein harvesting, consistent with training and privileges
Identify, evaluate, and manage postoperative complications
Coordinate care transitions including discharge planning and outpatient follow-up
Communicate effectively with patients, families, nursing staff, and consulting services
Maintain accurate, timely clinical documentation in the electronic medical record
Participate in quality improvement, patient safety, and outcomes initiatives
Comply with all regulatory, accreditation, and professional standards