Registered Nurse – SICU

Job Title: Registered Nurse – SICU
Company: Life Healthcare
Function: Nursing
Location: Life Cosmos Hospital, Mpumalanga
Closing Date: Monday, November 11, 2024
Contact: Mmaosia.kgoele@lifehealthcare.co.za

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Position Overview

Life Healthcare is seeking a dedicated Registered Nurse for the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) at Life Cosmos Hospital in Mpumalanga. This role focuses on delivering specialized patient care in a surgical ICU environment and involves close collaboration with doctors, nurses, and other team members. Reporting to the SICU Unit Manager, the successful candidate will be expected to uphold hospital standards, adhere to clinical protocols, and support quality patient care.

The ideal candidate will work within a multidisciplinary team to ensure efficient management of SICU resources, effective patient communication, and strict compliance with infection control and risk management policies. This role requires a compassionate approach, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

Key Responsibilities

This position involves various critical tasks to support the effective operation of the SICU.

1. Cost and Resource Management

• Labor and Time Management: Track and manage employee labor hours, including handling debit and credit hours, to ensure appropriate staffing levels and efficient resource use.
• Inventory Management: Control stock usage to prevent wastage and ensure the proper functioning and availability of essential equipment.
• Equipment Maintenance: Oversee regular maintenance of medical equipment to minimize interruptions and maintain patient care standards.

2. Quality Patient Care

• Department-Specific Training: Facilitate orientation for new staff, ensuring compliance with SICU protocols and procedures.
• Routine Care Rounds: Perform daily care rounds and investigate patient and family complaints promptly, ensuring a supportive environment for patients.
• Communication with Patients and Families: Provide accurate and supportive information to patients and their families, ensuring they are well-informed during hospitalization.
• Procedure Assistance: Collaborate with doctors to perform daily procedures, assisting as needed to ensure smooth operations in the SICU.

3. Risk Management and Compliance (SHEQ & Infection Control)

• Preventative Risk Measures: Implement preventative safety measures to minimize risk within the SICU, promoting a safe environment for patients and staff.
• Hygiene and Cleanliness Standards: Maintain high levels of cleanliness and adherence to infection control standards to ensure a sterile and safe environment.
• ISO Compliance: Comply with ISO infection control requirements, ensuring the SICU meets national and hospital standards for patient care.

4. Stakeholder and Team Collaboration

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including identifying doctors’ preferences and accommodating them as possible.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with the SICU team to ensure open communication, coordinated care, and alignment with hospital strategic objectives.

Qualifications and Requirements

The role demands specific qualifications and experience to handle the specialized nature of SICU care.

• Educational Background:
  • A Degree or Diploma in Nursing from an accredited institution.
  • ICU Qualification is mandatory to equip the candidate with specialized skills for handling critical care patients.
• Professional Experience:
  • At least 2 years’ ICU experience, specifically in surgical or critical care, which is essential to manage the complex cases encountered in SICU.
  • Current registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) is required.
  • Private healthcare experience is beneficial, providing familiarity with the unique demands of this industry.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in basic computer skills to document patient data, access hospital systems, and manage schedules efficiently.

Competencies

To succeed in this role, candidates should demonstrate the following competencies, which are essential for meeting the demands of SICU nursing:

• Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills: Ability to assess and respond to complex situations quickly and effectively.
• Resilience: Capable of handling the high-stress environment of an ICU with endurance and a strong focus on quality care.
• Diversity Awareness: Respect for and engagement with a diverse patient base and team, supporting an inclusive environment.
• Effective Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills for interactions with doctors, patients, and families.
• Customer Responsiveness: A patient-centered approach that prioritizes quality and compassionate care.
• Organizational Awareness: Understanding of Life Healthcare’s mission and strategic objectives and aligning SICU practices accordingly.
• Drive and Energy: Enthusiasm for the role, coupled with a proactive approach to managing SICU responsibilities.
• Ethical Conduct: Adherence to ethical standards, including patient confidentiality and integrity.
• Relationship Building: Ability to work effectively with the SICU team and build strong connections with healthcare providers and patients’ families.

Career Development and Benefits

Life Healthcare provides a supportive environment for professional growth and development in the field of nursing.

• Training and Education: Access to continuous professional development programs to advance ICU skills and knowledge.
• Competitive Benefits Package: Life Healthcare offers a comprehensive package that includes healthcare benefits, retirement plans, and other work-life balance perks.
• Employee Wellness Programs: Support for both mental and physical wellness, understanding the demanding nature of ICU work.
• Career Growth Opportunities: Encouragement for internal career mobility and access to learning resources, supporting advancement within the organization.

Why Choose Life Healthcare?

Life Healthcare is a leader in South Africa’s private healthcare industry, known for its commitment to quality care, ethical standards, and innovation. Life Cosmos Hospital’s SICU provides a highly supportive environment for professionals dedicated to critical care, with access to the latest medical technologies, training resources, and a collaborative work culture.

As part of Life Healthcare, employees can expect a professional environment that values diversity, encourages skill development, and promotes career growth. Life Healthcare is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Application Process

Interested and qualified candidates should submit their applications to Mmaosia.kgoele@lifehealthcare.co.za by November 11, 2024. Internal candidates are encouraged to discuss their application with their line manager prior to applying. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not received a response within two weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

For more information on job openings, visit Life Healthcare’s Careers page or contact our recruitment hotline at 011 219 9000.

Life Healthcare invites you to be a part of our team, delivering exceptional care in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit.