RN Surgery Procedure- IR Lab, AHN Wexford

Cardiac Cath Lab Nurse

This job performs nursing care during cardiac catheterization procedures, including precise instrument handling, accurate medication administration, and proficient monitoring of hemodynamic parameters. A registered nurse in the Cath Lab is proficient in the operation and maintenance of specialized Cath Lab equipment and ensures the accuracy and completeness of procedural documentation and participates in quality assurance activities to maintain optimal procedural outcomes.

Essential Responsibilities

• Participates in the care of patients undergoing Cardiac Cath Lab, Interventional Radiology, Electrophysiology, Hybrid Operating Room procedures and surgeries. Prepares patients for cardiac catheterization procedures, including explaining the procedure, obtaining informed consent, and verifying allergies and medical history.
• Integrates knowledge of cardiovascular and peripheral vascular physiology, pathophysiology, and procedural techniques being performed, and assists accordingly.
• Positions patients, selects anatomical and technical parameters accurately for independent imaging of special procedures per established protocol. Prepares for and assists the physician and/or physician assistant while performing procedures.
• Maintains the competency to administer and monitor Moderate Sedation, vasoactive medications, and anticoagulants as directed by a physician.
• Anticipates adverse reactions / conditions when monitoring the effects of all procedural activities and responds appropriately.
• Demonstrates competent technical skills and may perform scrub functions related to the intra-operative phase. Assists cardiologist during cardiac catheterization procedures by preparing equipment, managing instrumentation, and maintaining a sterile field.
• Demonstrates knowledge of accepted procedures performed during the intra-operative phase utilizing proper aseptic techniques and practices standard precautions. Follows policy for medication and specimen handling.
• Prepares contrast media, practices aseptic technique pre-, during, and post- special procedures.
• Completes required documentation for procedures e.g. regulatory, billing protocols and image storage and archival.
• Maintains adequate supplies for efficient section/department operations. Participates in inventory control and monitoring.
• Orients inexperienced staff on the operation of laboratory equipment; troubleshoots malfunctions and is knowledgeable of proper support personnel and instances when they need to be contacted.
• Provides accurate and through nurse-to-nurse handoff to receiving unit.
• Available to cross-train as appropriate in various areas.
• Other related duties as required.

Qualifications

Minimum

• Current State of PA RN licensure OR Current multi-state licensure through the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC).

Preferred

• Certification in area of specialty
• RCIS Certification encouraged within five years

Additional Employment Requirements:

• Act 34 Criminal Background Clearance Certificate
• Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance Certificate
• Act 73 FBI Fingerprinting Criminal Background Clearance Certificate
• BLS and ACLS Certification