Job Summary
Cardiology Float Pool Registered Nurse is responsible for providing quality care to patients prior to, during, and after cardiac stress testing, pre and post cardiac catheterization care, and monitoring patients during pacemaker MRI and CTA testing in accordance with department and hospital policy. The RN plans, directs and coordinates the daily schedule with inpatient and outpatients through communication with the supervisor and lead Cardiologists in the cardiology department and diagnostic imaging.
Duties & Responsibilities
1. Plans and carries out individualized stress tests for both inpatients and outpatients per physician order. Works closely with the Nursing staff and oversees performance of stress test including patient assessment and patient preparation.
2. Working independently under the supervision of the cardiologist assigned to the stress patient, the RN will perform cardiac stress tests in conjunction with Cardiology staff on adult patients in the cardiac stress lab.
3. Prior to the study, RN will review cardiac health history and will perform a limited physical exam to detect evidence of any of the following: a) heart murmur, b) heart failure, c) carotid bruit, d) gallop rhythm, e) edema, and f) vascular insufficiency and under the approval of cardiologist supervision, modify test if appropriate.
4. RN will screen stress test orders for appropriateness and communicate inappropriate orders and/or possible contraindications to covering Cardiologist for further action and clarification.
5. Monitors the patient throughout the test and in recovery as needed.
6. Insertion and management of IV access for perfusion studies. Administer medications per protocol, including but not limited to Dobutamine and Dipyridamole. Assists Echo with Definity & Bubbles.
7. Assists Cardiologist with CCTA Assessment and administration of medications.
8. Interprets 12 lead EKG, comparing rest with exercise tracings.
9. Notifies Physician any changes in patient's condition or unexpected occurrences. Recognizes and initiates therapy for life threatening cardiac dysrhythmias under protocols and in accordance with ACLS standards.
10. Compiles preliminary report and enters into stress system. Communicates with covering Cardiologist as appropriate for significant results
11. Prepares patients for a cardiac catheterization and EP cases. Reviews health history and medications.
12. Notifies cardiac interventionalist of any concerns with the patient.
13. Cares for Post op cardiac catheterization patients and EP patients in the cardiac catheterization lab.
14. Monitors Pacemaker MRI patients.
15. Proficient in all clinical systems and data entry,
16. Ensures individual patient's rights including the right to confidentiality, privacy, dignity, safety and comfort.
17. Respond to cases of cardiopulmonary arrest, fire, disaster or other emergencies in accordance with established procedures.
18. Assume responsibility for own professional development, setting goals and striving to achieve them through available resources, such as attending seminars, inservices and/or reading journals.
19. Performs all other related duties as assigned.
Requirements
BSN preferred and a minimum 4 years of direct experience caring for cardiac patients such as CCU or dedicated cardiac floor. ACLS certification required. Direct cardiac care requirement may be waived if more than 3 years of cardiac stress testing experience. Proficiency in 12 lead EKG interpretation required. RI State RN Licensure required.
