RN - Chicago, IL

RN Cath Lab Acute Care

A Cath Lab RN is a registered nurse who provides specialized, acute care in the cardiac catheterization laboratory, working closely with interventional cardiologists to perform and support diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac procedures. The role combines ICU-level hemodynamic monitoring with OR-level procedural support in a fast-paced, technology-intensive environment.

Core Acute Care Duties

• Pre-procedure care
• Perform focused cardiovascular assessment, review allergies, and verify informed consent
• Prepare patients: establish IV access, check labs (creatinine, coagulation), confirm NPO status, and ensure vascular access site is ready
• Assist with consent forms and document pre-procedure checks

Procedural support

• Circulate and/or scrub during cardiac catheterization, angiography, stent placement, electrophysiology studies, device implantations, and structural heart procedures
• Operate specialized equipment: intra-aortic balloons, physiological recorders, ECG monitors, and imaging systems
• Administer and monitor medications: heparin, contrast, nitroglycerin, vasopressors, antiarrhythmics
• Manage hemodynamic monitoring: arterial lines, PA catheters, IABP, Impella support
• Administer conscious sedation and monitor for adverse reactions

Acute emergency response

• Rapidly transition to high-acuity STEMI activation mode when a patient with an active heart attack arrives
• Provide immediate interventions, including emergency defibrillation, vasopressor support, and hemodynamic stabilization

Post-procedure care

• Manage groin or radial access sites for bleeding, infection, or thrombosis
• Monitor patients for complications and provide post-procedure education on recovery, medications, and lifestyle

Documentation and coordination

• Chart patient data, consent forms, lab results, and procedure details
• Collaborate with physicians, technicians, and other staff to ensure safe, efficient care

Skills & Competencies

• Clinical skills: Advanced cardiac monitoring, vascular access, medication management, emergency response
• Technical skills: Sterile technique, aseptic procedures, radiation safety
• Communication: Clear coordination with interventional teams and patient/family education
• Certifications often required: ACLS, BLS, RCIS (Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist), CCRN, CAVS/CEPS