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.
About Us:Care New England Health System (CNE) and its member institutions, Butler Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, Kent Hospital, VNA of Care New England, Integra, The Providence Center, and Care New England Medical Group, is a trusted, integrated health care organization that fuels the latest advances in medical research, attracts the nation’s top specialty-trained doctors, hones renowned services and innovative programs, and engages in the important discussions people need to have about their health and end-of-life wishes. Care New England is helping to transform the future of health care, providing a leading voice in the ongoing effort to ensure the health of the individuals and communities we serve.
:Americans with Disability Act Statement: External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled must be able to perform the essential job-specific functions either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation, to be determined by the organization on a case-by-case basis.
EEOC Statement: Care New England is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status
Ethics Statement: Employee conducts himself/herself consistent with the ethical standards of the organization including, but not limited to hospital policy, mission, vision, and values.