Nurse I, Acute Care

University of Utah Health•Salt Lake City, UT

About The Position

University of Utah Health is seeking an Acute Care Nurse I to provide routine patient care in a structured, low-risk environment while applying foundational nursing knowledge and established unit protocols. The role involves caring for patients experiencing acute medical changes, monitoring their condition, administering prescribed medications and treatments, and working with the medical team to support recovery or stabilization. The nurse works with varied levels of supervision, follows care plans, escalates concerns, and seeks guidance and feedback as needed. The position requires rotating schedules as operational and patient care needs dictate, potentially including variable hours, weekends, nights, and holidays in a 24/7 health system. Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance during assigned shifts is an essential function.

Requirements

Current license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of Utah, or obtain one within 90 days of hire under the interstate compact if changing residency to Utah.
Maintain a current Interstate Compact (multi-state) license if residency is not being changed to Utah.
Obtain a current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system within 30 days of hire.
Meet any additional license requirements determined by the hiring department.
Meet the position's physical requirements with or without an accommodation, including the ability to exert up to 100 pounds and consistently lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects such as medical equipment or patients.
Be able to function in an environment where there may be exposure to infectious diseases and contact with prisoners and behavioral health patients.

Responsibilities

Perform routine patient assessments, including vital signs and focused assessments; document findings and report changes to the charge nurse or provider using established escalation criteria.
Provide direct patient care according to established care plans, physician orders, and unit protocols.
Administer prescribed medications and treatments, follow safety checks, and seek guidance as needed.
Assist in developing and updating care plans based on patient needs and team input.
Support patient throughput by assisting with admissions, transfers, and discharge tasks under guidance.
Provide basic patient and family education using standard materials and reinforce instructions with teach-back.
Maintain a safe environment by following infection prevention, fall precaution, and equipment safety protocols.
Coordinate care tasks with CNAs and other team members, and seek guidance when priorities change.
Participate in interdisciplinary rounds and communicate patient status, concerns, and questions.
Complete orientation and competency requirements, including TTP, residency, LMS, and core skills, and apply learning in practice.
Respond to changes in patient condition and participate in emergency response, such as RRT, in assigned roles.