Long-term Acute Care Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of modern healthcare, the role of long-term acute care nurses is ever crucial.

As medical science advances, the demand for dedicated professionals who can provide, enhance, and safeguard our long-term acute care services grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a long-term acute care nurse?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the inner workings of long-term acute care nursing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable long-term acute care nurse job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Long-term Acute Care Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

Long-term Acute Care Nurses have specialized skills for handling severe and complex medical conditions in patients who require extended hospitalization.

They play a vital role in the patient’s recovery process and often work with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing, planning, and implementing nursing care plans for patients with complex, long-term illnesses or injuries
• Monitoring patients’ vital signs, administering medication, and performing various medical procedures as required
• Documenting patients’ symptoms and medical history in their healthcare records
• Communicating with patients, their families, and healthcare team about the patient’s progress
• Educating patients and their families about their conditions and instructing them about the necessary post-discharge care
• Coordinating care with other healthcare professionals such as physicians, therapists, and social workers
• Providing emotional support to patients and their families during difficult times
• Ensuring all medical equipment is working properly and reporting any malfunctions
• Maintaining strict hygiene and safety standards to prevent infection
• Adhering to healthcare laws, regulations, and hospital procedures at all times

 

Long-term Acute Care Nurse Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Long-term Acute Care Nurse to join our professional healthcare team.

In this role, you will be responsible for providing direct and individualized nursing care to patients based on the application of scientific nursing principles.

The Long-term Acute Care Nurse will conduct patient assessments, implement health care plans, administer medications and treatments, and educate patients and their families about their health condition.

Our ideal candidate is patient-focused, compassionate, and has a strong understanding of nursing procedures, patient care, and medical protocols.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and monitor the patient’s progress
• Identify sudden or subtle changes in a patient’s medical condition
• Deliver regular updates to doctors, patients, and their family members
• Begin treatment and monitor doses
• Respond to medical emergencies
• Record patient vital signs and medical information
• Order medical diagnostic and clinical tests
• Administer non-intravenous medications
• Work with a multidisciplinary team to ensure patient care is coordinated and of high quality

 

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse with valid state license
• At least 2 years of nursing experience, preferably in a long-term acute care setting
• BLS and ACLS certification
• Proven experience working with ventilator-dependent, wound care, and/or critically ill patients
• Strong knowledge of infection control practices
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and manage multiple priorities, utilize effective problem-solving/critical thinking skills, and apply evidence-based practice
• Excellent communication skills and ability to handle stress
• BSN or MSN is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education credits
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Long-term Acute Care Nurse
• Work Environment: Long-term acute care hospital. Shift work may be required, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Nurse Manager or Charge Nurse.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $63,000 minimum to $93,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Long-term Acute Care Nurse Do?

Long-term Acute Care Nurses, also known as LTAC nurses, typically work in specialized hospitals or units that care for patients with severe medical conditions or those recovering from major surgeries.

Their primary role is to provide high level, specialized care for patients who need extended periods of hospitalization.

These patients often have complex illnesses that require interdisciplinary medical intervention.

LTAC nurses closely monitor the patient’s condition, administer medications, provide wound care, assist with procedures and therapies, and support diagnostic tests.

They may also assist patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding, depending on the patient’s condition.

They work as a part of a healthcare team which includes doctors, pharmacists, dietitians, physical therapists, and social workers.

Together, they develop and implement a comprehensive care plan for each patient.

Communication is a key part of their role.

They not only communicate with the healthcare team but also with the patients and their families.

They educate them about the patient’s condition, progress, and the care needed after discharge.

Furthermore, they play a critical role in advocating for the patient’s needs and preferences, ensuring the delivery of patient-centered care.

Their ultimate goal is to help their patients achieve the highest level of health and independence possible, given their unique circumstances.

 

Long-term Acute Care Nurse Qualifications and Skills

Long-term Acute Care Nurses utilize a combination of professional skills, clinical knowledge and personal attributes to provide optimal care for patients with prolonged illnesses or recovery processes, such as:

• Excellent clinical skills to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care for those with complex, long-term conditions
• Strong knowledge of medical procedures, equipment and medication, required in long-term care settings
• Exceptional communication skills to interact with patients, families, and the interdisciplinary team, providing clear information and patient education
• Empathy and compassion to offer emotional support to patients and their families during difficult periods of illness and recovery
• Patience and resilience to handle the emotional and physical demands of caring for patients with chronic or life-threatening conditions
• Time management and organizational skills to manage multiple patients, maintain detailed records, and ensure all patients receive the required care
• Problem-solving skills to identify complications or issues in patient health and respond quickly and effectively
• Physical stamina to work long hours, often on their feet, while providing hands-on care

 

Long-term Acute Care Nurse Experience Requirements

To qualify as a long-term acute care nurse, candidates typically need to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and a Registered Nurse (RN) license.

This requires a significant amount of clinical experience, which is typically obtained throughout nursing school.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience in a nursing or healthcare setting, often through a clinical rotation during their education or through a part-time role or internship.

They may also have experience in related roles such as a licensed practical nurse or nursing assistant.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their clinical skills and knowledge in settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes.

They may have specialized experience in areas like geriatric care, critical care, or palliative care, which is often beneficial in long-term acute care settings.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience in their background, such as charge nurse or nursing supervisor, and may be ready for a managerial position within a long-term acute care facility.

Additionally, all long-term acute care nurses must engage in continuing education to stay abreast of the latest medical advances and techniques.

Certifications related to acute care, gerontology, or critical care are often viewed favorably by employers.

 

Long-term Acute Care Nurse Education and Training Requirements

To become a Long-term Acute Care Nurse, an individual must first become a Registered Nurse (RN) by completing an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited college or university.

After completing their nursing degree, they need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed RN.

Once licensed, nurses looking to specialize in long-term acute care should gain experience in the field, often through working in hospital settings, particularly in intensive care units.

In order to enhance their skills and employability, many nurses then pursue post-graduate certification.

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) offers a Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN) certification for those who have dedicated time to working with critically ill patients.

A Masters in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) can also further increase job prospects and potential for advancement in this field.

Continuing education and lifelong learning are important for Long-term Acute Care Nurses, as they need to stay updated with the latest medical procedures, technologies, and treatments.

This can be achieved through professional development courses and workshops.

Finally, excellent communication skills, empathy, and physical endurance are also essential for success in this challenging yet rewarding career.

 

Long-term Acute Care Nurse Salary Expectations

A Long-term Acute Care Nurse earns an average salary of $77,460 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary may vary based on factors such as the nurse’s years of experience, level of education, and location.

Additional factors such as the size of the health facility and the specific duties required in the role can also influence earnings.

 

Long-term Acute Care Nurse Job Description FAQs

What qualifications are needed to be a Long-term Acute Care Nurse?

Long-term Acute Care Nurses typically need at least an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing.

They must also have a Registered Nurse (RN) license.

In addition, most employers prefer candidates with some experience in acute care settings.

Some nurses also choose to get certified in acute care nursing to enhance their skills and job prospects.

 

What are the typical duties of a Long-term Acute Care Nurse?

Long-term Acute Care Nurses are responsible for providing high-quality nursing care to patients with severe medical conditions, such as those who have experienced trauma, surgery, or serious illnesses.

Their duties often include monitoring vital signs, administering medications, providing wound care, and assisting with daily activities such as feeding and bathing.

They also collaborate with the healthcare team to develop and implement patient care plans.

 

What skills does a Long-term Acute Care Nurse need?

These nurses need to have excellent clinical skills to provide direct patient care, including physical assessments and medication administration.

They should also have strong communication skills to effectively interact with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.

Long-term Acute Care Nurses need to be compassionate and patient-focused, as they often work with individuals who are seriously ill or injured.

 

What qualities make a good Long-term Acute Care Nurse?

A good Long-term Acute Care Nurse is empathetic, understanding and patient, as they are often dealing with patients who are seriously ill or injured.

They also need to be resilient and able to handle stress well, given the high-pressure nature of acute care settings.

Good nurses in this field are also detail-oriented, as they need to accurately monitor and record patient conditions and treatment plans.

 

What should you look for in a Long-term Acute Care Nurse resume?

A strong candidate should have a nursing degree and a valid RN license listed on their resume.

Additionally, look for relevant experience in an acute or long-term care setting.

Any specialized certifications, like the Certified Critical Care Nurse (CCRN) or Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN), can also be a plus.

Skills such as patient care, critical thinking, and communication should also be highlighted.

 

Conclusion

So there we have it.

Today, we’ve given you an inside look at the vital role of a long-term acute care nurse.

And guess what?

It’s not just about administering medication.

It’s about providing compassionate, high-quality care to patients when they need it the most.

With our comprehensive long-term acute care nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient interaction is a part of the bigger healthcare journey.

Let’s improve healthcare. Together.

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