Nurse I, ICU

Job Title

Critical Care Nurse

Job Description

As a patient-focused organization, University of Utah Health exists to enhance the health and well-being of people through patient care, research and education. Success in this mission requires a culture of collaboration, excellence, leadership, and respect. University of Utah Health seeks staff that are committed to the values of compassion, collaboration, innovation, responsibility, integrity, quality and trust that are integral to our mission.

Job Subfamily

Critical Care nurses provide care for critically ill or injured patients within the intensive care unit involving complex assessment and intervention in intense circumstances serving patients with life-threatening conditions.

Career Level

N1: Performs routine patient care assignments and may require intermediate support. Applies theoretical knowledge to clinical practice in structured, low-risk environments. Demonstrates understanding of basic nursing principles and unit protocols. Begins applying foundational knowledge in real-time care. Uses standard procedures and tools to assess and respond to patient conditions. Escalates concerns to senior staff and the medical team. Works under varied levels of supervision depending on skillset. Follows care plans and protocols with limited decision-making. Communicates respectfully with patients and team members. Seeks clarification and feedback to support learning.

Essential Functions

• Performs routine patient assessments and documents findings with guidance, applying foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and unit protocols.
• Develops and implements care plans, following established ICU protocols under supervision.
• Provides patient and family education using established materials and clarifies care plans as needed.
• Maintains a safe and therapeutic environment by adhering to protocols, infection control, and safety standards.
• Communicates respectfully with patients, families, and team members; escalates changes in patient condition to senior staff.
• Participates in orientation and ongoing development to build competency in critical care nursing.
• Provides direct patient care in accordance with nursing protocols and physician orders.
• Performs other duties as assigned consistent with departmental needs and organizational objectives, within scope of licensure and competency.
• Works rotating schedules (variable hours, weekends, nights, holidays) to meet 24/7 care needs; maintains regular, reliable, punctual attendance.
• Follows organizational policies and department protocols. Seeks guidance and clarification on how to apply these as needed.

Qualifications

Required

• Required for all ICU employees with the exception of NBICU: Current RQI Healthcare Provider ALS eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system. The ALS eCredential is to be obtained within 90 days of hire.

Licenses Required

• 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 State of Utah. Must maintain current Interstate Compact (multi-state) license if residency is not being changed to Utah.
• Current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system. The eCredential is to be obtained within 30 days of hire.

* Additional license requirements as determined by the hiring department.

Qualifications (Preferred)

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

Employee must be able to meet the following requirements with or without an accommodation.

• This position involves intensive work that may exert up to 100 pounds and may consistently require lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling or otherwise moving objects, such as medical equipment, or patients while providing medical care. Workers in this position may be exposed to infectious diseases and may be required to function around prisoners and behavioral health patients.

Physical Requirements

Non Indicated