Cardiac Surgery ICU Advanced Practice Provider (APP)

Intensive Care Unit | High-Acuity Critical Care | Full-Time

Position Summary

The Cardiac Surgery ICU Advanced Practice Provider (APP) is a vital member of the Cardiac Surgery team, responsible for the comprehensive management of critically ill post–cardiac surgical patients during the immediate post-operative period in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

This role delivers high-acuity, evidence-based care in close collaboration with Cardiac Surgeons, CV Intensivists, and multidisciplinary Surgical ICU teams including trauma, orthopedics, and neurosurgery. The APP ensures optimal patient outcomes through expert bedside management, advanced procedural skills, and vigilant clinical monitoring.

Key Responsibilities

Immediate Post-Operative ICU Care

• Provide expert, hands-on care to critically ill cardiac surgery patients

• Perform comprehensive assessments and implement advanced treatment plans

• Manage complex cardiac conditions including:

  • Cardiogenic shock

  • Post-cardiotomy support

  • Post-surgical complications

• Collaborate with SICU teams in managing trauma, orthopedic, and neurosurgical post-operative patients as appropriate

Advanced Bedside Procedures

Proficient in performing:

• Central and arterial line placement

• Removal of intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABP)

• Removal of percutaneous ventricular assist devices

• ECMO cannulation (percutaneous and surgical, with surgical team collaboration)

• Chest tube insertion and management

• Pulmonary artery catheter insertion and management

• Bedside ultrasound and echocardiography

Provides expert troubleshooting and management of mechanical circulatory support devices including IABP, ventricular assist devices, and ECMO circuits.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Partner with CICU nursing, intensivists, surgeons, respiratory therapists, perfusionists, and allied health teams

• Serve as a clinical resource for bedside staff

• Participate in interdisciplinary rounds and complex case discussions

Education & Leadership

• Act as a clinical leader and role model within the CICU

• Support education and hands-on procedural training for nurses and APP colleagues

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and ICU performance advancement

Patient & Family Communication

• Provide clear, compassionate updates regarding post-operative progress

• Support families throughout complex ICU stays

• Collaborate with the care team to address questions and concerns

Professional Expectations

• Maintain strict adherence to infection control and safety protocols

• Uphold evidence-based critical care standards

• Maintain ongoing certification and continuing education

• Model professionalism, integrity, and teamwork

Work Environment

• High-acuity, fast-paced Intensive Care Unit

• 24/7 coverage model

• Rotating shifts as assigned

Requirements

• ICU, Cardiac ICU (CICU), or Surgical ICU (SICU) experience required

• Physician Assistant (PA-C) or Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)

• 3–5 years of critical care experience

• Active American Heart Association BLS and ACLS certifications

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary

• Sign-on bonus

• Comprehensive benefits package

• Continuing education support

• Professional development opportunities