General Summary

Participates in all aspects of care of cardiac and thoracic surgery patients with physician supervision as specified by state code and SJMHS medical staff policy.  Responsible for assessing, planning, implementing and evaluating patient care provided to assigned patient population.  This includes preoperative evaluation, intraoperative assisting and postoperative care of cardiothoracic patients with implementation of therapies and processes to meet all patient and family needs.

Essential duties and responsibilities

Patient work-up including history and physical examination with ordering of appropriate laboratory tests, x-ray studies and other diagnostic studies as indicated. Preoperative evaluation of off-service patients scheduled for cardiothoracic surgical procedures with completion of preop checks. Operative assisting, including conduit harvest, first and second assisting, opening and closing of sternotomy, thoracotomy and other incisions as indicated. Transport and initial care of the operative patient in the recovery room and intensive care unit with completion of initial orders and brief operative note. Participation in the care of patients in the surgical ICU and on the progressive care units according to daily assignments and rotation of team members through various areas.  The service is covered 24/7 by cardiothoracic PAs and advanced practice nurses who collaborate in all aspects of care. Completion of daily hospital work rounds including pre and post operations and charting of progress notes as required or as assigned. Dictation of discharge summaries, chart rounds, staffing conference summaries and consults as directed by service needs. Participation in the care of off-service patients as indicated by consulting (supervising) physician request. Performing diagnostic or therapeutic procedures as needed (within the scope of practice of the supervising physician)  [Examples include, but are not limited to those listed in the Delineation of Clinical Privileges for the Cardiothoracic Surgery PA.]  Performing First Aid/Basic Life Support resuscitation with participation in annual review. Maintenance of ACLS Provider status. Evaluation and coordination of a plan of care in conjunction with attending physicians and other team members. Participation in patient care conferences and peer quality review with attending and other staff members to assure quality patient care. Collection and recording of information for service database. Participation in teaching rounds and service Morbidity & Mortality Conference with preparation of case presentations as assigned.

Supplemental duties and responsibilities

Maintenance of knowledge of current trends and developments in the field by reading appropriate books, journals and other literature and attending related conferences and seminars.

Participation in outcomes studies and research activities.

Participation in professional development activities with maintenance of professional affiliations and certifications according to SJMHS policies and state codes

Participation in PA residency training program activities including clinical and technical instruction.

Required education, experience and licensure

Graduation from accredited Physician Assistant program

Certification by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants State of Michigan Physician’s Assistant License

DEA Controlled Substance Registration Certificate, United States Dept. of Justice

Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support Provider Certification

Fundamental Critical Care Support – Provider, Society of Critical Care Medicine

Required skills and abilities

Advanced patient management skills necessary to care for critically ill patients in the intensive care setting.  This position places the PA in the first responder position for all scenarios and requires a high degree of clinical acumen and technical skill for performing invasive procedures. Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective interaction with patients, families, consulting physicians and hospital staff. Ability to interact with grieving family members in a compassionate manner. Ability to walk and stand continuously and to lift and position patients.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
 

Trinity Health is one of the largest not-for-profit, Catholic healthcare systems in the nation. Built on the foundation of our Mission and Core Values, we integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. Our colleagues have different lived experiences, customs, abilities, and talents. Together, we become our best selves. A diverse and inclusive workforce provides the most accessible and equitable care for those we serve. Trinity Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.