Cardiac Catheterization Lab Nurse - PRN

Patient Preparation

• Prepare patients for catheterization and other cardiac procedures
• Explain the process to patients
• Obtain medical history from patients
• Address patient concerns

Intra-procedural Care

• Scrub and circulate during procedures
• Maintain a sterile environment
• Monitor vital signs
• Manage cardiac rhythms

Post-procedural Care

• Monitor patients for complications
• Provide recovery support
• Educate patients and families on post-procedure care
• Document outcomes

Technical Duties

• Operate and understand specialized cath lab equipment
• Absorb and understand procedural checklists
• Assist with hemostasis devices

Collaboration

• Work closely with cardiologists, radiologic technologists, and other team members
• Develop individualized care plans
• Carefully coordinate patient care

Required Skills And Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and catheterization procedures
• Ability to interpret EKGs and manage cardiac emergencies
• Skilled in operating cath lab equipment and maintaining sterile fields
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and patient education abilities
• Ability to work under high-stress conditions

Education

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) (BSN often preferred)

Licensure and Certification

• Current RN license
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification

Work Environment

• Typically works in hospital settings, including large academic centers and community hospitals
• Exposure to high-acuity patients, potential infectious risks, and the need for rapid decision-making during emergencies
• Many cath labs operate on a standard schedule with on-call rotations for urgent procedures

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods, often several hours, during interventional and diagnostic procedures
• Capability to safely lift, turn, and transfer patients (up to 50 lbs) with or without assistance, following proper body mechanics
• Demonstrates fine motor skills necessary to handle delicate instruments, manage IV lines, and maintain precision in a sterile environment
• Strong manual dexterity to assist with catheter manipulation, guidewires, and specialized cardiac catheterization equipment