Cardiothoracic Surgery ICU Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) or Physician Assistant (PA)
Location: Sacramento, CA
Job Type: Locum
Company: Palm Careers
Category: Healthcare
Job Description Apply Now
The Cardiothoracic Surgery ICU Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) or Physician Assistant (PA) plays a vital role in delivering comprehensive care to patients within the inpatient cardiothoracic surgical intensive care unit and telemetry floor. This advanced practice provider position is ideal for a highly motivated professional with expertise in critical care, specifically within the cardiothoracic surgery setting. The role requires proficiency in managing acutely ill patients, especially those who have undergone cardiac surgery, and involves a wide range of responsibilities including patient management, clinical procedures, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. This is a contract opportunity, offering flexible scheduling and the chance to work in a dynamic, high-acuity environment where advanced skills are both required and valued.
As a Cardiothoracic Surgery ICU Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) or Physician Assistant (PA), you will be responsible for providing exceptional care to critically ill patients requiring cardiothoracic surgical intervention and ongoing intensive monitoring. The position demands a high level of autonomy, clinical acumen, and the ability to manage complex cases involving advanced medical technologies and interventions. The role emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based practice, and patient-centered care, with an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient outcomes in a highly specialized setting.
This contract position is designed for professionals who thrive in high-intensity environments and are adept at rapid clinical decision-making. With a consistent schedule of 12-hour night shifts and a rotating pattern of 14 shifts per month, this role accommodates those seeking both flexibility and challenge in their careers. The setting provides exposure to the latest advancements in cardiothoracic critical care, including mechanical circulatory support devices, and fosters continued professional growth.
Cardiothoracic Surgery ICU Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) or Physician Assistant (PA) - Summary- Advanced practice provider role in a high-acuity inpatient cardiothoracic surgery ICU and telemetry unit.
- Focus on management of post-cardiac surgery patients, critical care, and procedural support.
- Engagement in a dynamic, contract-based position with flexible shift scheduling.
- Manage acute care patients following cardiothoracic surgery in the ICU and telemetry settings.
- Perform advanced procedures, including the placement of central and arterial lines, and the management of chest tubes and surgical drains.
- Provide clinical oversight and care for patients on mechanical circulatory support devices such as ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation), IABP (Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump), and Impella.
- Conduct daily patient rounds, coordinate care plans, and collaborate with attending physicians and multidisciplinary teams.
- Deliver 100% inpatient care, focusing on critical and high-acuity cases.
- Ensure timely documentation, patient education, and effective communication with family members and care teams.
- Adhere to hospital protocols, evidence-based guidelines, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Competitive, market-aligned compensation for advanced practice providers in critical care contract roles.
- Potential for contract extension based on performance and organizational needs.
- Opportunities for professional development and exposure to advanced cardiothoracic procedures and technologies.
- Flexible shift scheduling to support work-life balance.
- Active and unrestricted state licensure as a Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) or Physician Assistant (PA).
- Board certification in Acute Care for Nurse Practitioners or Physician Assistants.
- Demonstrable experience in cardiac surgery, critical care, or cardiothoracic ICU settings.
- Proficiency in placing central and arterial lines, managing chest tubes and surgical drains.
- Comfort and hands-on experience with mechanical circulatory support devices (ECMO, IABP, Impella).
- Strong clinical judgment and the ability to work independently during night shifts.
- Excellent communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.
- Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to function autonomously in a high-pressure environment.
- Detail-oriented with a commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.
- Passionate about critical care medicine and ongoing professional development.
- Experience working with high-acuity patients and advanced medical devices.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary teams.
- This contract role provides exposure to a broad spectrum of complex cardiothoracic cases in a leading trauma center.
- The work location offers a vibrant community and excellent quality of life for healthcare professionals.
- Immediate start is available, with opportunities for contract extension based on performance and organizational needs.
- The organization is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, in full compliance with all EEOC regulations.
If you are a skilled Cardiothoracic Surgery ICU Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) or Physician Assistant (PA) seeking a challenging and rewarding contract role, we encourage you to apply today by clicking the job application button. Be part of a dedicated team that values expertise, independence, and exceptional patient care!