Staff Nurse (Cath Lab)

Reporting To: Nurse Manager OR/ Nurse Manager ICU/ Chief of Nursing Services

Position Summary:

· Assist Cardiologist in diagnostic catheterization and vascular and interventional cardiac procedures and provide patient care during and after the procedure.

· Responsible for the operation of specialized equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:
General

1. Provide professional care in cardiac catheterization laboratory within the established standard and practice.
2. Assist Cardiologist (attending doctor) during diagnostic and interventional procedures.
3. Educate the patient and/ or family about the procedure.
4. Practice aseptic technique throughout procedure.
5. Wear appropriate PPE and lead gown and/or shield for radiation protection during procedure.
6. Ensure patient safety by taking preventive measures against accidents/incidents.
7. Provide privacy and safeguard confidentiality of the patient.
8. Monitor stock for consumables and drugs according to par level.
9. Perform daily checking of controlled drugs, crash cart and medical gases.
10. Assist in the orientation of new staff.
11. Participate in the training and development of nurses in Cardiac Catheterization laboratory.
12. Maintain clinical competency in all aspects of cardiac catheterization and provides direct patient care as needed.
13. To be "on-call" after office hour for emergencies.
14. Perform any other duties as assigned and/ or requested in a competent and professional manner.

Before the Procedure:

1. Perform as scrub or circulating nurse as assigned.
2. Prepare appropriately the room, equipment and medication required for each specific procedure.
3. Check to ensure all equipment are in working condition.
4. Receive and check patient pre-procedure according to the checklist - verify correct patient, site and procedure.
5. Ensure patient consent is obtained.
6. Position patient appropriately on the procedure table for different procedures.
7. Perform "Time Out" as per procedure prior to commencement of procedure and ensure complete documentation in Surgical Safety Checklist.

During the Procedure

1. Assist operator/CVT in sheath removal: Radial/ Femoral and others.
2. Observe, take, record and report abnormal patient's condition/vital signs to the attending doctor.
3. Monitor a patient's oxygen level and assist the attending doctor as needed.
4. Monitor patient's hemodynamics during procedure and inform the operator of any hemodynamics changes.
5. Identify cardiac rhythms and abnormal ranges and take appropriate intervention.
6. Repeat and verify any verbal orders from attending doctor.

Post Procedure

1. Check ACT level before removal of femoral sheath following an interventional procedure.
2. Count CSSD instruments after procedure. Inform loss or damages immediately to Radiology Manager for immediate action.
3. Document patient outcomes pre, during and post procedure.
4. Maintain concise and complete documentation of procedure in patient's medical record.
5. Record and ensure all items and consumables used are charged.
6. Ensure doctor's post-procedure treatment care orders are being documented and communicated.
7. Observe, take, record and report abnormal patient's condition/vital signs to the attending doctor.
8. Communicate with the receiving nursing units on specific care needed for patient post procedure.

Education and Requirements:

· At least 2 years clinical experience in cardiology or cardiothoracic.

· A certificate in Cardiovascular Technology.

· Valid annual practicing certificate.

Special Demands:

· Analytical skills required to interpret changes in patients' medical conditions.

· Proficient in Advanced Cardiac Life Support with valid certificate.

· Possess the ability to learn complex technologies effectively.