Position Overview
This role is designed for a skilled Clinical Nurse II with a strong background in critical care, specializing in interventional radiology and cardiac catheterization procedures. The nurse will provide direct patient care throughout procedural stages, ensuring safety, comfort, and efficient workflow in a fast-paced interventional environment within a regional healthcare setting in the Pacific Northwest.
Patient Care Responsibilities
- Coordinate with the healthcare team to deliver patient-centered, timely, and equitable care during procedures.
- Perform thorough preoperative assessments tailored to individual patient needs.
- Monitor patient responses during procedures and intervene promptly when necessary.
- Administer moderate sedation and educate patients and families on post-procedure care and medication management.
- Manage complications such as bleeding or hypotension and advocate for evidence-based procedural practices.
Procedural Support
- Handle instruments, equipment, and sterile supplies with precision.
- Document specimens accurately following physician orders and facility policies.
- Anticipate procedural team needs to maintain smooth workflow.
- Assist physicians during interventional radiology and cardiac catheterization, adhering strictly to sterile techniques.
Safety and Compliance
- Maintain aseptic techniques, infection control, and radiation safety protocols.
- Comply with regulatory standards including The Joint Commission, OSHA, and AORN guidelines.
- Ensure patient identification, pre-procedure verification, and prevention of retained items.
- Report safety concerns and assist in supply management and biohazard disposal.
Documentation
- Accurately record patient care, interventions, and responses in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) following patient care standards.
Professional Development and Leadership
- Mentor new nurses and students, supporting their growth and development.
- Engage in continuing education, certifications, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Serve as a resource and advocate for best practices within the procedural department.
- Assume charge nurse responsibilities as needed.
Emergency Preparedness
- Recognize and respond to hemodynamic instability, arrhythmias, and respiratory distress.
- Initiate Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and participate in rapid response and code situations.
- Maintain composure and advanced clinical skills during critical events such as cardiac arrest or stroke.
Qualifications
Experience
- Minimum two years as a Registered Nurse in Interventional Radiology or Cardiac Cath Lab, or five years in Emergency Department or ICU for transitional programs.
- Ability to scrub, circulate, and provide procedural sedation in IR and Cath Lab settings.
- Capability to respond on call within 30 minutes and perform physical tasks including lifting and wearing protective lead gear.
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with five years relevant experience considered.
- Completion of Critical Care or Interventional Radiology/Cath Lab training preferred.
Licenses and Certifications
- Current Registered Nurse license in the applicable state.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications required.
- Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN), Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS), or Certified Radiology Nurse (CRN) certifications preferred.
Successful candidates must pass physical evaluation, drug screening, and background checks prior to employment.