Integrating New NPs into the ICU

When Nurse Practitioners (NPs) begin to work at the R. Adams Crowley Shock Trauma Center in the University of Maryland Medical Center, they are given training that helps integrate them into the ICU. Brooke Andersen, ACGNP-BC, Clinical Program Manager for Shock Trauma and Advanced Practice Provider for the Critical Care group, wrote about this topic for Critical Care Nurse. She took the time to answer our questions about how this process works and why it is important.

What follows is an edited version of the interview.

As opposed to having them begin working directly in the ICU, what kind of preparation is done beforehand? Why is this necessary?

All newly hired NPs attend a 2-day hospital orientation and a 1-day Advanced Practice Provider orientation that includes content on regulatory requirements, computer training, access to systems, and supplies needed for the job. Each NP receives a structured orientation manual and details regarding the orientation plan.

This standardized onboarding phase assists the NPs in completing the necessary requirements to begin work in the ICU and has minimized delays in credentialing and other regulatory requirements while streamlining the process.

What kind of training do they receive before starting in ICU? Why?

We do not provide training before starting in the ICU. The new NPs receive education in conjunction with their clinical training. They participate in weekly 1-day standardized didactic education and bimonthly procedural workshops or simulation sessions throughout the orientation. The weekly sessions provide time off the unit and opportunities for the NPs to obtain knowledge and technical skills while gaining confidence and competency in the critical care setting.