The Registered Nurse performs direct patient care activities for neonatal patients through assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of care. This role coordinates patient care activities with ancillary departments to optimize patient outcomes and comfort while practicing within professional nursing standards, organizational policies, and the Arkansas Nurse Practice Act.

The RN delivers care consistent with:

• Mercy Health System's mission and values
• The Philosophy of the Sisters of Mercy
• Professional nursing standards and ethical guidelines
• Mercy Service Standards and Co-Worker Code of Conduct

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Clinical Excellence

• Utilize the nursing process to develop and implement comprehensive plans of care for patients and families.
• Perform ongoing assessments and monitor patient conditions.
• Deliver evidence-based nursing care in a high-acuity neonatal environment.
• Collaborate with physicians, respiratory therapists, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Respond independently and effectively to emergency situations.
• Advocate for patients and families while promoting optimal health outcomes.

Critical Thinking & Clinical Judgment

• Evaluate rapidly changing patient conditions and make sound clinical decisions.
• Identify potential risks and intervene proactively.
• Accurately document patient status, changes, interventions, and outcomes.
• Apply evidence-based practice and current professional literature to patient care decisions.

Education & Family Support

• Provide individualized patient and family education based on developmental, cultural, and learning needs.
• Promote understanding of treatment plans and ongoing care.
• Support continuous learning among peers and team members.

Leadership & Professional Development

• Serve as a clinical resource and role model.
• Participate in unit and hospital improvement initiatives.
• Contribute to team-building efforts and professional growth activities.
• Share knowledge and best practices with colleagues.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Graduate of a state-approved professional nursing program.

Licensure

• Must be eligible to take the Board of Nursing examination.

Experience

• No experience required.
• New graduates are encouraged to apply.

Certifications

• Current American Heart Association (AHA) Healthcare Provider certification required, or completion within the probationary period.

What We're Looking For

• Strong commitment to neonatal nursing and family-centered care
• Excellent critical thinking and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Team-oriented mindset with a passion for learning
• Dedication to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care

Working Conditions

• Frequent standing and walking throughout shifts
• Significant bending, stooping, lifting, and repositioning patients with assistance
• Ability to push, pull, and grip up to 50 pounds and pinch up to 15 pounds
• Occasional kneeling, crouching, and crawling
• Exposure to blood and body fluids
• May be required to work varying schedules based on patient care needs

If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity to grow your nursing career in one of the region's premier neonatal intensive care environments, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and take the next step toward a fulfilling career in NICU nursing.