Travel Nurse RN - Telemetry - $1,933 per week in Chicago, IL

The Registered Nurse (RN) – Cardiac Intensive Care (CIC) provides advanced nursing care to critically ill patients with complex cardiovascular conditions. This role involves caring for patients experiencing life-threatening cardiac conditions, such as acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), heart failure, arrhythmias, or those recovering from cardiac surgery. The RN in the CIC unit monitors patients closely, administers medications, provides advanced cardiac care, and collaborates with cardiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for critically ill cardiac patients.

• Patient Assessment and Monitoring:

  • Continuously monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and respiratory function, ensuring early detection of any complications.
  • Perform comprehensive assessments on critically ill cardiac patients, including cardiovascular and neurological status, and document findings.
  • Utilize advanced technology and equipment to monitor and interpret telemetry, ECG, and other cardiac data.

• Cardiac Care and Interventions:

  • Administer prescribed medications, including antiarrhythmics, anticoagulants, diuretics, pain management, and vasoactive agents to stabilize cardiac function.
  • Assist in managing mechanical support devices such as intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABP), ventricular assist devices (VAD), and other circulatory support systems.
  • Provide post-operative care for patients recovering from cardiac surgeries, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve replacement, or heart transplants.
  • Prepare and manage patients for invasive cardiac procedures, such as catheterizations, angioplasties, or electrophysiology studies.

• Critical Care and Emergency Response:

  • Respond quickly to life-threatening arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, or acute cardiovascular complications, administering immediate interventions like CPR or defibrillation.
  • Manage patients experiencing acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, or severe hypertension, adjusting treatments to stabilize hemodynamics.
  • Monitor and support patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or post-surgical complications, ensuring appropriate interventions are delivered promptly.

• Patient Education and Support:

  • Educate patients and families about cardiac conditions, treatment plans, and the importance of lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation.
  • Counsel patients on the potential outcomes of their condition and treatment options, providing emotional support for both the patient and their family.
  • Teach patients about post-hospital care, including medications, activity limitations, and follow-up appointments for ongoing cardiac management.

• Collaboration with Healthcare Team:

  • Collaborate with cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, respiratory therapists, dietitians, and other specialists to develop and implement individualized care plans for critically ill patients.
  • Participate in interdisciplinary rounds to discuss patient progress, changes in clinical status, and adjustments to care plans.
  • Communicate effectively with patients, families, and the healthcare team regarding patient conditions, treatment goals, and any changes in the care plan.

• Documentation and Record-Keeping:

  • Document all patient assessments, interventions, medications, and responses in the patient’s electronic health record (EHR), ensuring accuracy and compliance with hospital policies and regulatory standards.
  • Maintain detailed records of cardiac rhythms, lab results, medication administration, and any complications or changes in patient condition.

• Post-Discharge Planning and Follow-up:

  • Assist in discharge planning by educating patients and families about the recovery process, managing cardiac medications, and scheduling follow-up care.
  • Ensure patients understand the importance of cardiac rehabilitation, weight management, and monitoring for warning signs of complications.
  • Coordinate with case management to arrange any necessary home care services or outpatient visits.

• Quality Improvement and Continuing Education:

  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance care delivery and improve patient outcomes in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit.
  • Stay up to date with current cardiac care practices, including new medications, technologies, and protocols.
  • Pursue ongoing education and certifications related to cardiac nursing, critical care, and advanced cardiovascular care.