Float Flight Nurse

Life Flight Network•Aurora, OR

About The Position

The Flight Nurse works with a Flight Paramedic to deliver advanced critical care to Life Flight Network patients and is ultimately responsible for direct patient care in accordance with the organization’s guidelines and protocols. This float position has scheduled shifts in Hillsboro, Astoria, Kelso, Dallesport, Aurora, Salem, and Newport. As the senior member of the flight team, the Flight Nurse provides age-appropriate care to pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients; maintains competency in advanced clinical procedures; and supports documentation, patient follow-up, equipment readiness, and daily operations. The role also supports safe aircraft operations, public education, and the development of the organization’s business and operational plans. Candidates must be able to work varied shifts and cover fixed-wing and/or ambulance call shifts.

Requirements

At least five years of ICU, emergency department, or trauma experience within the last ten years; flight experience may substitute year for year for this requirement.
Current RN license appropriate to the assigned location.
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.
Pre-hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) or Basic Trauma Life Support (BTLS) certification.
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification.
Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification.
Transport Professional Advanced Trauma Course (TPATC) certification; must complete the course before assuming independent duties.
Must take the CFRN exam within one year of hire and obtain certification within two years of hire.
Current, valid state-issued driver’s license and at least three years of driving experience.
Maintain an airport badge where applicable.
Comply with the maximum weight restriction of 250 pounds fully outfitted to perform the job.
Strong leadership skills and ability to communicate and work with varied people individually and in groups, often in highly stressful situations.
Ability to work varied shifts and cover fixed-wing and/or ambulance call shifts.
Passport and/or eligibility to enter Canada may be required depending on location assignment.

Nice To Haves

Previous flight experience is preferred, subject to the stated year-for-year substitution for ICU/ED/trauma experience.
Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) or Critical Care Nurse (CCRN) certification is strongly preferred until certified as a Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN).

Responsibilities

Deliver advanced critical care with the Flight Paramedic and assume ultimate responsibility for direct patient care according to Life Flight Network guidelines and protocols.
Provide age-appropriate care to pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients.
Maintain competency in chest tube insertion, surgical airways, endotracheal intubation, intraosseous insertion, and central line placement.
Complete accurate and timely patient care documentation with the Flight Paramedic.
Provide written and/or verbal patient follow-up to referring hospitals or agencies.
Assist with retrieving and returning equipment to appropriate agencies.
Clean and restock equipment promptly so aircraft can return to service.
Complete inventories and monthly checks, order supplies, and maintain equipment in working order.
Work with the Flight Paramedic in the day-to-day operations of Life Flight Network.
As assigned, compile statistical data or work on related projects for the Director of Clinical Operations.
Help ensure safe aircraft operations for patients, crewmembers, and personnel at the scene.
Enforce Life Flight Network safety policies and assist the pilot with navigation, takeoff, landing, and in-flight procedures.
Participate in developing business and operations plans to meet medical transport service and financial performance goals.
Promote favorable public opinion of Life Flight Network through contact with patients, community agencies, and hospitals.
Provide flight education to the public as requested.