90%25 Staff Nurse Cardiovascular Pre- and Post-Recovery Unit (CPRU) – UI Heart and Vascular Center

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Staff Nurse Cardiovascular Pre- and Post-Recovery Unit (CPRU) – UI Heart and Vascular Center Company: University of Iowa Location: Iowa City, Iowa, United States Job Type: Part-time, Regular Category: Healthcare Operations / Clinical Operations Date Posted: 2025-10-17 Experience Level: 2-5 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for ensuring seamless patient transitions through cardiovascular procedures within a specialized unit.
• Focuses on direct patient care, encompassing pre- and post-procedural nursing interventions for cardiac catheterization, vascular, and Electrophysiology (EP) patients.
• Requires strong clinical skills in medication administration, sheath management, and operating specialized medical equipment.
• Emphasizes effective interdisciplinary communication and patient/family education to support recovery and continuity of care.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is clinical, the operational aspects of patient flow, resource utilization (equipment), and team coordination are critical. The "operations" aspect here pertains to the efficient and effective management of patient care processes within a specialized unit.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide direct nursing care to patients undergoing or recovering from cardiovascular procedures in the CPRU.
• Administer medications as prescribed by physicians, ensuring accuracy and patient safety.
• Manage post-procedure care, including the removal of arterial and venous sheaths.
• Educate patients, caregivers, and family members on discharge instructions, wound care, and necessary follow-up appointments.
• Operate and troubleshoot medical equipment such as hemodynamic monitoring systems, ACT machines, and defibrillators.
• Collaborate effectively with physicians, fellow nurses, technicians, and other healthcare professionals within a multidisciplinary team.
• Apply nursing theory to assess, diagnose, treat, and evaluate patient responses to health and illness.
• Serve as a clinical preceptor for new and agency nursing staff, contributing to team development and knowledge transfer.
• Document patient interventions, responses, and outcomes accurately in accordance with departmental and institutional policies.
• Maintain a safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff by adhering to universal precautions and all relevant safety protocols.
• Potentially provide cross-coverage and training for the adult cardiac catheterization lab and/or Minor Procedure Suite.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct patient care and unit operational management. The preceptor role indicates a need for leadership potential and a commitment to team training, which are key operational development areas within a clinical setting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• An Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Diploma in Nursing, a Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN), Professional Master of Nursing and Healthcare Practice (MNHP), MSN/Clinical Nurse Leader, or a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN, MA) is required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 1-year recent experience in Adult Cardiac Cath Lab, Telemetry, ER, and/or RN ICU.
• Alternatively, completion of a cardiovascular services or RN ICU internship within the last 6 months is acceptable.
• Proven track record of positive and professional interactions with patients, families, healthcare staff, and interdisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated ability to utilize critical thinking skills, exercise decisive judgment, and work independently in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Required Skills:

• Direct Patient Care: Proficiency in providing comprehensive nursing care for cardiovascular patients.
• Procedural Support: Experience with post-cardiac catheterization and vascular procedures, including sheath removal.
• Medication Administration: Accurate and safe administration of prescribed medications.
• Clinical Assessment & Monitoring: Ability to assess patient status, interpret vital signs, and monitor hemodynamic data.
• Patient & Family Education: Skill in delivering clear and effective discharge instructions and health teaching.
• Team Collaboration: Strong ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Capacity for rapid assessment, decisive judgment, and effective problem resolution in emergent situations.
• BLS Certification: Current Basic Life Support certification is mandatory by the start date.
• ACLS Certification: Current Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support certification is mandatory by the start date.
• Iowa Nursing License: A current license to practice nursing in Iowa is required by the start date.

Preferred Skills:

• 3 years of recent Adult Cardiac Cath Lab, Telemetry, ER, and/or RN ICU experience.
• Active enrollment in a BSN program if a BSN degree has not yet been obtained.
• Previous experience with EPIC electronic health record system.
• Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific certifications (BLS, ACLS) and licensure, along with the required experience in critical care environments (ICU, Cath Lab), points to a role demanding high clinical competence and immediate contribution. The preference for a BSN indicates a potential pathway for career advancement within the organization.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Clinical Case Studies: Detailed examples of patient cases managed in pre- and post-cardiovascular recovery, highlighting nursing interventions, patient outcomes, and any challenges overcome.
• Procedure Proficiency Documentation: Evidence of skills in managing post-procedure complications and performing sheath removals.
• Patient Education Materials: Examples of patient education materials developed or utilized, demonstrating clarity and effectiveness for diverse patient populations.
• Team Collaboration Examples: Documentation or narrative illustrating successful collaboration with physicians and other healthcare professionals to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Patient Flow Management: Illustrate understanding of patient flow through the CPRU, from admission to discharge or transfer, focusing on efficiency and patient safety.
• Medication Management Protocols: Showcase adherence to medication administration protocols and any contributions to improving these processes.
• Equipment Utilization and Maintenance: Document experience with operating and troubleshooting specific medical equipment relevant to cardiovascular recovery.

📝 Enhancement Note: For clinical roles, a "portfolio" often translates to well-documented case studies and demonstrated proficiency in core procedures. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their contributions to patient care processes and team efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The University of Iowa typically offers competitive salaries for nursing positions based on experience, qualifications, and adherence to union contracts if applicable. For a 90% (36 hours/week) Staff Nurse position with 1-3 years of experience in Iowa City, IA, a salary range of approximately $60,000 - $80,000 annually (or $29 - $38 per hour) would be a reasonable estimate, subject to specific internal pay scales and collective bargaining agreements.

Incentive:

• Qualified candidates may be eligible for a sign-on incentive of up to $10,000. (Current UI employees are not eligible for this incentive).

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage options.
• Retirement Savings Plan: University-sponsored retirement programs with potential employer match.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous accrual of vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Tuition Assistance: Opportunities for continuing education and professional development, including tuition reimbursement for advanced degrees.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Options for life insurance and long-term/short-term disability coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for personal and work-related challenges.
• Wellness Programs: Access to health and wellness initiatives.

Working Hours:

• 90% (36 hours per week)
• Three 12-hour Day shifts per week.
• Two rotating days off per week, Monday through Friday.
• No weekends, holidays, or on-call duties are required for this specific schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general nursing market data for Iowa City and the specified experience level. Official compensation will be determined by the University of Iowa's HR department and may be subject to collective bargaining agreements. The sign-on incentive is a significant draw, but eligibility criteria must be carefully reviewed.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare (Academic Medical Center) Company Size: Large (University setting with over 12,000 employees) Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, with its Health Care system evolving significantly over time to become a comprehensive academic medical center.

Team Structure:

• Clinical Unit Focus: The CPRU is a specialized unit within the UI Heart and Vascular Center, dedicated to cardiovascular patient care.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Operates within a highly collaborative environment involving physicians (cardiologists, vascular surgeons, electrophysiologists), registered nurses, advanced practice providers, technicians, and support staff.
• Reporting: Staff Nurses typically report to a Nurse Manager or Clinical Nurse Supervisor of the CPRU.

Methodology:

• Evidence-Based Practice: Commitment to utilizing the latest research and best practices in cardiovascular nursing care.
• Patient-Centered Care: Focus on individual patient needs, involving patients and families in care decisions and education.
• Continuous Improvement: Emphasis on ongoing evaluation of processes and outcomes to enhance patient safety and care quality.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilization of patient data and performance metrics to inform clinical practice and operational adjustments.

Company Website: https://uiowa.taleo.net/careersection/2b/jobdetail.ftl?job=25005755&lang=en

📝 Enhancement Note: The University of Iowa Health Care's mission "Changing Medicine. Changing Lives.®" underscores a culture of innovation, excellence, and patient advocacy. As an academic medical center, there's a strong emphasis on research, education, and advanced clinical practice.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level clinical position with significant responsibility in a specialized area. While primarily clinical, the "operations" component involves managing patient flow, resources, and contributing to team efficiency.

Reporting Structure:

• The Staff Nurse reports to the Nurse Manager or Clinical Supervisor of the Cardiovascular Pre- and Post-Recovery Unit (CPRU). This structure ensures clear lines of accountability and support for clinical operations.

Operations Impact:

• The Staff Nurse's efficiency, accuracy, and collaborative approach directly impact patient recovery times, complication rates, and overall patient satisfaction. Effective management of the patient experience in the CPRU is critical for the reputation and operational success of the UI Heart and Vascular Center.

Growth Opportunities:

• Clinical Specialization: Deepen expertise in cardiovascular nursing through experience and potential certifications (e.g., CCRN, Cath Lab specific certifications).
• Leadership Development: Opportunity to develop leadership skills through precepting new staff and potentially moving into charge nurse roles or specialized committees.
• Advanced Education Support: The institution's support for advanced degrees (BSN, MSN) provides a clear path for career progression into advanced practice roles, management, or education.
• Cross-Functional Experience: Potential to gain experience in related areas like the cardiac catheterization lab or EP lab.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional "Revenue or Sales Operations" role, the operational aspects of patient care management, resource allocation (equipment, time), and team coordination are paramount. Growth paths lean towards clinical expertise, leadership within clinical teams, and further academic achievement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hospital / Clinical Setting Office Location(s): Iowa City, Iowa. The UI Heart and Vascular Center is a major component of the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.

Workspace Context:

• Dynamic Clinical Environment: The CPRU is a fast-paced unit requiring constant attention to patient needs and rapid response capabilities.
• Technology Integration: Access to advanced medical equipment, electronic health records (EPIC), and communication systems is standard.
• Team-Oriented Space: Emphasis on close collaboration and communication with colleagues due to the critical nature of patient care.
• Patient Focus: The primary focus is on providing direct patient care in a safe and supportive environment.

Work Schedule:

• The schedule is designed for work-life balance within a demanding clinical field, offering 12-hour day shifts with no weekends or holidays, which is a significant benefit for maintaining personal well-being while working in a critical care area.

📝 Enhancement Note: The structured schedule (no weekends/holidays) is a key differentiator, indicating a focus on staff well-being and preventing burnout in a high-acuity unit. This is an operational consideration for staff retention.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application, resume, and cover letter for minimum qualifications and relevant experience.
• Phone/Video Interview: A preliminary discussion with a recruiter or hiring manager to assess general fit, motivation, and initial qualifications.
• On-Site Interview: This typically involves meeting with the Nurse Manager, potentially other nursing staff, and possibly a physician. It will likely include:
  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing how candidates have handled past situations related to patient care, teamwork, critical thinking, and ethical dilemmas.
  • Clinical Scenario Questions: Presenting hypothetical patient situations to gauge critical thinking, assessment skills, and intervention planning.
  • Team Fit Assessment: Evaluating how well the candidate would integrate into the existing team culture and collaborative environment.
• Skills Demonstration/Unit Tour: May include a tour of the unit and observation of workflows.
• Offer and Background Check: Successful candidates will receive an offer contingent on background checks and credential verification.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Case Studies: Prepare 2-3 detailed case studies showcasing your experience in cardiovascular pre- and post-recovery care. Focus on the patient's condition, your interventions, critical thinking, collaboration, and the positive outcomes achieved.
• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use data to demonstrate impact (e.g., "Reduced patient discharge teaching time by X% through standardized materials," or "Managed an average of Y patients per shift with zero medication errors").
• Showcase Procedural Competence: Be ready to discuss your experience with specific procedures, especially sheath removal and hemodynamic monitoring.
• Emphasize Communication: Provide examples of effective communication with diverse patient populations, families, and the interdisciplinary team.
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Detail instances where you identified a problem, implemented a solution, and improved patient care or unit operations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Clinical Scenarios: Review common cardiovascular emergencies and post-procedural complications (e.g., bleeding, arrhythmias, hypotension, chest pain) and how you would manage them.
• Teamwork and Communication: Prepare examples demonstrating your ability to collaborate effectively, de-escalate conflict, and advocate for patients.
• Understanding of Unit Operations: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of patient flow within a pre/post-recovery unit and the importance of timely care.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" isn't explicitly requested beyond resume and cover letter, candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience as if presenting a portfolio. This means having detailed examples ready for behavioral and clinical scenario questions. The emphasis on "relevant file" for resume and cover letter suggests a structured application process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Electronic Health Record (EHR): Primarily EPIC (preferred). This system is crucial for patient charting, order entry, medication administration records (MAR), and communicating patient status.
• Hemodynamic Monitoring Systems: WITT Biomedical systems and similar devices for real-time patient vital signs and cardiac monitoring.
• Vital Signs Monitoring Equipment: Standard hospital-grade monitors.
• Defibrillators: Essential for emergency cardiac care.
• ACT Machine: Used for measuring Activated Clotting Time, critical in managing anticoagulation during procedures.

Analytics & Reporting:

• EHR Reporting Modules: For accessing patient data, procedure logs, and performance metrics.
• Unit-Specific Dashboards: May be used for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to patient throughput, length of stay, and patient outcomes.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in a clinical nursing role, as the focus is on patient care systems rather than sales/marketing CRM. However, the EHR itself acts as a central data repository and workflow management tool.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in EPIC is a highly desirable skill and often a requirement for clinical roles at large healthcare institutions like the University of Iowa. Familiarity with hemodynamic monitoring equipment and emergency response tools is fundamental.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient Safety First: An unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of every patient.
• Excellence in Care: Striving for the highest standards of clinical practice and patient outcomes.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering an environment where all team members work together cohesively and respectfully.
• Continuous Learning and Improvement: Encouraging professional growth, embracing new knowledge, and actively seeking ways to enhance care processes.
• Compassion and Empathy: Treating patients and their families with kindness, understanding, and respect.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary Teamwork: Nurses are expected to actively participate in and contribute to a multidisciplinary team approach, valuing the expertise of all professionals.
• Open Communication: Maintaining clear, concise, and respectful communication channels with colleagues, physicians, and patients/families.
• Shared Responsibility: A culture where team members support each other, share workload when necessary, and contribute to the overall success of the unit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The University of Iowa Health Care's values likely align with patient-centered care, integrity, respect, and innovation. For nurses, this translates to a commitment to quality care, ethical practice, and effective teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High-Acuity Patient Management: Handling critically ill patients with complex cardiovascular conditions requires constant vigilance and rapid decision-making.
• Pacing and Time Management: Balancing multiple patient needs, procedures, and documentation in a fast-paced environment.
• Emotional Demands: Dealing with patients and families experiencing stressful medical events.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with new medical equipment, procedures, and EHR system updates.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Cardiovascular Training: Gaining in-depth knowledge and skills in cardiac catheterization, vascular procedures, and electrophysiology.
• Professional Certifications: Opportunities to obtain and maintain certifications like ACLS, CCRN, and PCCN.
• Continuing Education: Access to workshops, seminars, and online courses to stay updated on the latest advancements in cardiovascular nursing.
• Preceptorship and Mentorship: Developing leadership and teaching skills by precepting new nurses.
• Career Advancement: Clear pathways for progression to more senior nursing roles, specialized practice, or management positions within the UI Health Care system.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "challenges" here are inherent to high-acuity clinical nursing. The "growth opportunities" are framed around clinical specialization and leadership within a healthcare system that values professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Clinical Scenarios: "A patient presents with sudden onset of chest pain post-sheath removal. Describe your immediate assessment and actions." "How would you manage a patient experiencing significant hypotension after a cardiac procedure?"
• Teamwork & Communication: "Describe a time you had a disagreement with a physician or colleague. How did you resolve it?" "How do you ensure effective handoff communication to the next shift or unit?"
• Problem-Solving & Process Improvement: "You notice a recurring issue with equipment availability on the unit. What steps would you take?" "How do you prioritize care when multiple patients have urgent needs?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for the University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center specifically?" (Research their mission, recent achievements, and values.)
• "How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment?"
• "What are your strengths and weaknesses as a cardiovascular nurse?"
• "How do you handle stressful situations and maintain composure?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each case, clearly outline: Patient Presentation -> Your Assessment -> Interventions -> Collaboration -> Outcome -> Lessons Learned.
• Quantify Your Impact: Use numbers where possible to illustrate your contributions (e.g., patient load, accuracy rates, patient satisfaction scores).
• Highlight Procedural Expertise: Be ready to detail your experience with specific procedures like sheath removal, hemodynamic monitoring, and medication management in post-procedural patients.
• Showcase Communication Skills: Prepare examples of how you effectively educate patients and families, and communicate critical information to the healthcare team.
• Demonstrate Critical Thinking: Be ready to explain your thought process in managing complex or emergent patient situations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While no formal portfolio submission is required beyond resume and cover letter, candidates should prepare to articulate their experience and skills as if presenting a portfolio. This involves having specific examples and quantifiable achievements ready to discuss during interviews.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this nursing position:

• Submit your application through the provided URL: https://uiowa.taleo.net/careersection/2b/jobdetail.ftl?job=25005755&lang=en
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in cardiovascular nursing, critical care (ICU, ER, Cath Lab), and any relevant certifications (BLS, ACLS). Use keywords from the job description.
• Cover Letter Customization: Write a compelling cover letter that specifically addresses why you are a good fit for the UI Heart and Vascular Center and the CPRU role, referencing your experience with cardiovascular procedures and patient care.
• Prepare for Interview Scenarios: Review common cardiovascular nursing challenges, critical thinking questions, and behavioral interview questions. Identify specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills in patient care, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Research the Organization: Familiarize yourself with the University of Iowa Health Care's mission, values, and the specific services offered by the UI Heart and Vascular Center. Understand their commitment to patient care and innovation.
• Document Your Experience: Be ready to discuss specific patient cases and your role in their care, akin to presenting a portfolio, detailing your interventions, outcomes, and collaborative efforts.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.