Vascular Access Nurse

Griffin Hospital•Derby, CT

About The Position

Griffin Hospital seeks a Vascular Access Nurse to provide access to patients’ circulatory systems through insertion of vascular access devices (VADs), including IVs, peripheral IVs (PIVs), Midlines, and central venous catheters (CVCs), including PICCs. The role includes assessing the appropriateness of vascular access devices, performing insertion procedures within the clinician’s skills and credentials, and supporting safe care and maintenance of vascular access lines. The nurse follows national Infusion Nurses Society standards and facility policies, applies infection-prevention measures, uses ultrasound guidance when appropriate, and documents procedures and reports care to the licensed personnel responsible for the patient. The position also includes troubleshooting central lines, monitoring PICCs and Midlines, submitting quality and infection-control surveillance data, consulting with and teaching nursing staff, and educating patients and staff about line care.

Requirements

Five years of nursing experience.
Two years of experience with PICC/Midline insertions.
Understand the Nurse Practice Act in the state of practice.
Work independently and provide comprehensive reporting within a group.
Adapt to new environments and techniques.
Communicate and teach effectively.
Maintain and improve vascular-access knowledge through continuing learning.
Maintain awareness of situations with a focus on patient and client experience.
Maintain a positive professional demeanor and strong self-evaluation skills.

Nice To Haves

Certified Registered Nurse Infusion (CRNI) certification preferred.
Experience with vascular line placement, care, and maintenance.

Responsibilities

Consult with patients regarding VAD appropriateness based on diagnosis, intravenous therapy plan, prognosis, and medical and surgical history.
Follow the national Standards of Practice set by the Infusion Nurses Society.
Set up and perform ordered vascular access procedures in accordance with skill set; appropriately trained and credentialed clinicians may perform PICC, Midline, and peripheral IV insertions.
Use infection-prevention measures, including handwashing, PPE, and a maximal sterile field.
Use ultrasound guidance for VAD access when appropriate.
Complete documentation and provide a full report to licensed personnel caring for the patient after insertion.
Comply with facility policies and procedures for clinical practice and infection control.
Troubleshoot and declot obstructed central line catheters.
Monitor PICCs and Midlines and educate staff on line-infection prevention and routine care.
Submit surveillance data for Quality and Infection Control.
Provide infusion consultation services, including bedside teaching, central-line troubleshooting, and consultation on infusion therapy questions.
Teach patients and staff how to care for vascular access lines.