Nurse I, Acute Care

University of Utah Health•Salt Lake City, UT

About The Position

University of Utah Health is seeking a patient-focused Nurse I, Acute Care to provide routine nursing care in structured, low-risk environments. The role applies foundational nursing knowledge and unit protocols to patient care, with varied levels of supervision depending on the nurse’s skillset. The nurse follows established care plans and procedures, escalates concerns to senior staff and the medical team, and communicates respectfully with patients and colleagues. Acute Care nurses care for patients experiencing acute medical changes, including life-threatening conditions requiring prompt assessment and treatment. They monitor vital signs, administer medications, assist with procedures, and collaborate with healthcare professionals to manage patient needs and support recovery or stabilization. This role also requires completing orientation and competency requirements and applying learning in practice. Schedules may rotate and include variable hours, weekends, nights, and holidays to meet staffing and patient care needs in a 24/7 health system. Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance during assigned shifts is essential. The work may involve intensive physical exertion, including moving equipment or patients, and exposure to infectious diseases; the role may also involve working around prisoners and behavioral health patients.

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 switching 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 additional license requirements as determined by the hiring department.
Be able to meet the position’s physical requirements, with or without an accommodation.

Responsibilities

Perform routine patient assessments, including vital signs and focused assessments, document findings, and report changes in condition to the charge nurse or provider using established escalation criteria.
Provide direct patient care in accordance with 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 using teach-back.
Maintain a safe environment by following infection-prevention, fall-precaution, and equipment-safety protocols.
Coordinate care tasks with CNAs and 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 responses, such as RRT, in assigned roles.