RN - Cath Lab/EP

Job Summary

The Cath Lab/EP RN is responsible for assisting in the care and treatment of patients undergoing diagnostic and interventional procedures in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab) or Electrophysiology (EP) Lab. The nurse provides direct patient care, monitors patients throughout procedures, and ensures a safe and sterile environment. They collaborate with cardiologists, electrophysiologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide exceptional patient care in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Care:
• Prepare patients for procedures, ensuring they are informed and comfortable.
• Monitor vital signs and assess patients before, during, and after procedures.
• Administer medications, sedatives, and fluids as ordered, while ensuring patient safety.
• Assist in the insertion of catheters, wires, and other devices during procedures.
• Observe and monitor cardiac rhythms, oxygen levels, and other vital signs during procedures.
• Provide post-procedure care, ensuring patients recover safely from sedation or anesthesia.
• Procedure Assistance:
• Support cardiologists and electrophysiologists during catheterization and electrophysiology procedures, such as ablations, pacemaker or defibrillator implantation, and angioplasty.
• Assist with equipment set-up, ensuring that all devices, including monitors, catheters, and imaging systems, are functioning properly.
• Participate in sterile procedures, maintaining aseptic technique and a clean environment.
• Patient Education:
• Educate patients and their families on the procedure, recovery process, and post-care instructions.
• Answer questions and provide support to ease patient anxiety.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of patient care and procedure notes.
• Communicate effectively with the healthcare team regarding any changes in the patient’s condition.
• Collaboration:
• Work closely with cardiologists, electrophysiologists, radiology technicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the highest quality of patient care.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to the development of best practices.
• Safety and Infection Control:
• Follow infection control protocols to minimize the risk of complications.
• Ensure proper handling of medical equipment, including cleaning and sterilizing tools after use.
  

Skills & Qualifications

• Education:
• Current RN license in the state of practice.
• Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing program.
• Experience:
• Minimum of 2 years of nursing experience in a Cath Lab or Electrophysiology Lab.
• Previous experience with cardiac or electrophysiology procedures is highly preferred.
• Certifications:
• BLS (Basic Life Support) certification.
• ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) certification.
• Additional certifications in electrophysiology or cardiology preferred (e.g., RCIS, CCDS).
• Skills:
• Strong knowledge of cardiac anatomy, electrophysiology, and catheterization procedures.
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and make decisions under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of infection control practices and patient safety standards.