ALNW, FLIGHT NURSE, JUNEAU

University of Washington Medical Center•Tumwater, WA

About The Position

Flight Nurse – Airlift Northwest – Juneau, AK Airlift Northwest - Juneau, AK has an outstanding opportunity for Flight Nurse. WORK SCHEDULE 90% FTE (36 hours per week), Variable Shifts. The Flight Nurse is accountable for the completion of all Airlift Northwest work assignments. They are responsible for the safety of patients prior to and during transport to medical care facilities. This includes provision of basic, as well as advanced life support measures required to stabilize the critically ill or injured patient. The position requires proficiency in the care of critically ill and injured patients across the age spectrum from newborn to the geriatric population and knowledge of the adaptations necessary for patient management in the aircraft and during flight. The Flight Nurse must also be familiar with aircraft operating procedures and safety practices. The ability to establish positive interpersonal and professional relationships is essential.

Requirements

Nursing License in good standing. Must obtain Alaska and Washington license prior to start.
Graduated from an accredited nursing school.
Five years’ experience in a critical care, Emergency department, and/or specialty care area with preference given to a combination of pediatric/adult experience.
Excellent physical health with full use of all extremities and no lifting limitations.
No vision limitations or hearing deficit.
The Flight Nurse must also be in excellent mental health with the ability to cope with extreme emotional and physical stress.
Conforms to current guidelines for weight.
Adherence to Airlift Northwest dress code.
Adherence to all Airlift Northwest policies and procedures.
Refrain from drug/alcohol use 12 hours prior to shift start.
Advanced clinical assessment, prioritizing and stabilization skills.
Ability to communicate well and promote positive interpersonal relationships with patients, families, health care and aviation professionals.
Desire to promote and maintain favorable public opinion of the flight program.
Two-year commitment to the Airlift Northwest flight program.
A current passport is a prerequisite to hiring. Must carry a passport on all transports.
ACLS, PALS, NRP, BLS current prior to hire, trauma course to be provided and maintained.
Advanced nursing certification (CCRN/CEN/CFRN etc.,) required prior to hire.
Must obtain CFRN within 2 years of employment.

Responsibilities

Comply with all published safety policies and procedures.
Actively and positively participate in shift briefings, cabin checklists, debriefings and other procedures.
Acquires extensive working knowledge of policies, procedures and protocols related to the Airlift Northwest program.
Acquire and maintain a strong knowledge base in critical care practice.
Stabilize and manage patients involved in air transport from interfacility ICU transports, as well as the management of specific air medical problems in flight.
Expected to have knowledge of applicable sections of the Federal Aviation Administration regulations.
Selects and prepares special equipment for transport according to patient needs and aircraft used.
Responsible for checking bags, equipment and aircraft prior to departure.
Prepares aircraft environment for anticipated patient needs on the outbound trip: 1) Oxygen therapy, 2) equipment for airway management, 3) IV fluids, 4) specific medications and 5) other required treatments.
On arrival at referring site, introduces transport personnel, assists with and directs stabilization procedures and preparation of the patient for flight.
Consults with appropriate medical control.
Compiles necessary documents and data to be transported with patient.
In-flight, is responsible for delivery of total patient care.
Continually monitors patient status in coordination with another flight nurse and intervenes as necessary.
Maintains electronic and written records of patient condition and care provided according to established standards and guidelines.
Assists in additional patient care as required on arrival to the receiving hospital.
All records and reports are transferred to receiving personnel.
Responsible for restocking flight bags and aircraft.
Equipment must be cleaned and maintained so that it is ready for the next flights.
Any problems with equipment, patient management or other agency personnel will be immediately reported to the Airlift Administrator on Call and/ or the Medical Director as appropriate.
Participates in post flight debrief with crew and communication center.
Completes flight records, computer charting, and airway documentation tracking and other quality improvement projects and data collection as required.
Participates in any debriefing meeting with Medical Director, Chief Flight Nurse, Nurse Managers and other staff as appropriate when requested.
Attends no less than ½ of the scheduled flight team meetings per year.
Responsible for the information provided in the minutes and educational content of the flight nurse staff meetings.
Must maintain currency in all required licensure, certifications, professional certifications, education, skills training, and clinical rotations.
Participates in teaching and training of orientees and Flight Physicians.
Participates in public education programs and public relations functions.
Responsible for a positive public image of Airlift Northwest at all times while on duty.
Develops proficiency in the use of radios and/or giving short reports.
Will uphold all Airlift Northwest policies and procedures related to Compliance, HIPAA and all applicable federal, state and/or local laws and regulations.
Recognition of small work pool assets and extra shift coverage may be requested to ensure aircraft staffing at a variety of bases.
May be sent (at the employer’s expense) to work within FTE at another FW based within organization.
Other duties as required.