Registered Nurse

Overview The Cath Lab Registered Nurse requires substantial specialized knowledge, judgement and nursing skills based upon the principles of psychological, biological, physical, and social sciences in the application of the nursing process in the respective departments in which assigned. The RN must collaborate with physicians and multidisciplinary team members; provide physical and psychological support to patients, friends, and families; supervising assigned team members and students Responsibilities Completes patient assessments, formulates plan of care, oversees implementation of plan of care, evaluates and adjusts plan of care utilizing critical thinking skills. The performance of other nursing acts which are authorized or limited by the board, and which are consistent either with American Nursing Association Standards of Practice or with Standards of Practice established by nationally accepted organizations of registered nurses.

Care, counsel health teaching and promotion, utilizes Teach Back methodology as affirmation of comprehension. The administration of medication, intravenous therapy and treatment as prescribed by a LIP. Supervision, delegation and follow-through to other personnel in the performance of activities relating to nursing care.

Mentors and precepts students and orients new staff as assigned. Reports up chain of command Clinical Nurse Manager/Nurse Manager/House Nurse Coordinator pertinent information. Participates on various teams, committees or performance improvement initiatives.

Ensures a safe and secure environment for patients, coworkers and self. Participates in Discharge Planning and Transition of Care (able to define patient needs). Serves as a patient advocate and escalates patient-related concerns timely.

Timely documents pertinent findings in medical record. Assumes responsibility for personal professional development. Utilizes effective communication skills and active listening, exhibits compassionate and empathetic attitude.

Practices Hands Off communication utilizing SBAR; Performs Bedside Shift Reporting utilizing SBAR (unless contradicted). Functions as a positive influence, role model and adheres to professional code of conduct. Respects dignity and confidentiality of all matters relating to patients.

Qualifications Education Associate's Degree Nursing Required Bachelor's Degree Nursing Preferred Minimum Work Experience Up to 1 Year work experience Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities Assures all members of the cath lab team have been instructed in the procedures performed and periodically updates personnel on new techniques, instrumentation, and procedures. Prepares for each assigned case by ensuring the room is properly prepared and equipped, the required documentation is present on the medical record, and the patient is properly identified. Prepares the patient for procedure by positioning and grounding the patient as required, securing the patient on the table, assisting with intubation, providing moderate sedation, preparing the procedural site, and demonstrating proficiency in continuous hemodynamic monitoring and successful completion of EKG testing.

Accompanies the patient to the recovery room and may be required to provide nursing care in the recovery room or post-procedural recovery in the Cath Lab suite. Monitors operative procedures by documenting proper patient positioning, breaks in sterile procedure, instrument, needle and sponge counts, preservation and labeling of all specimens, drugs and blood administration, and critical incidents during the procedure. Functions as a team member within the Cath Lab department by assisting with gowning and gloving; procuring required medication, blood, and supplies; coordinating involvement of other departments with the procedure; and properly processing specimens if needed.

Maintains a safe and productive work environment by assisting with cleaning, maintenance, and re-supply. Successful completion of a training program and demonstrated competence in monitoring and circulating nurse duties as determined by the Director, Clinical Nurse Manager, or equivalent leader. The nurse shall be adequately oriented to unit policies, procedures, and equipment.

Orientation shall include safety procedures, infection control practices, and performance improvement activities. Training for Cath Lab staff shall consist of completion of competencies in various areas or roles the nurse will function.