Travel Nurse RN - CVOR
Little Rock, AR
Magnet Medical
3x12 hrs, Nights

Preoperative Care:

• Conduct thorough preoperative assessments, including reviewing medical histories, performing physical exams, and documenting vital signs and lab results.
• Ensure all pre-surgical instructions are followed, such as fasting, medications, and preoperative testing (e.g., ECG, blood work).
• Educate patients and their families about the open heart surgery process, what to expect, and the recovery process.
• Provide emotional support and reassurance to patients and families, addressing any concerns or anxieties regarding the procedure.

Intraoperative Assistance:

• Assist in the operating room, preparing the patient and ensuring the sterile field is maintained during the procedure.
• Monitor vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and temperature, throughout the surgery.
• Administer medications, including sedatives, analgesics, and IV fluids as directed by the surgical team.
• Work closely with the surgical team to manage any complications that arise during surgery, such as blood loss, arrhythmias, or changes in vital signs.
• Document all surgical interventions, medications, and patient responses in the medical record.

Postoperative Care and Monitoring:

• Monitor patients closely after surgery in the ICU or CCU for signs of complications, including bleeding, infection, and cardiac irregularities.
• Administer prescribed medications, such as pain management, anticoagulants, and antibiotics, to support recovery.
• Assess and manage wounds, including surgical site care, dressing changes, and monitoring for signs of infection.
• Monitor cardiac function and assist in managing arrhythmias or other heart-related complications.
• Provide respiratory support if needed, such as administering oxygen, assisting with ventilator management, and promoting deep breathing exercises.

Patient Education and Rehabilitation:

• Educate patients about their recovery process, including guidelines for activity, diet, wound care, and signs of complications (e.g., infection, chest pain, swelling).
• Encourage and support early mobility to prevent complications such as blood clots and pneumonia.
• Provide emotional support to patients and families throughout the recovery process, addressing concerns, managing stress, and promoting positive outcomes.
• Work with the rehabilitation team to educate patients on lifestyle changes, including smoking cessation, diet, and exercise, to support heart health after surgery.

Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Team:

• Collaborate with cardiologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare providers to coordinate comprehensive care plans for patients.
• Participate in daily rounds and case discussions to review patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Ensure clear and effective communication with family members, updating them on the patient's condition and progress.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Document all patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes in the electronic medical record (EMR) to ensure accurate, up-to-date information.
• Report any changes in the patient's condition, such as signs of infection, changes in vital signs, or complications, to the healthcare team.
• Ensure all surgical and postoperative documentation is complete and complies with healthcare regulations and standards.

Emergency Response and Complication Management:

• Respond rapidly to any emergency situations, such as cardiac arrest, arrhythmias, or respiratory distress, during the postoperative period.
• Administer life-saving interventions as needed, such as CPR, defibrillation, or intubation.
• Monitor and manage potential complications, such as bleeding, stroke, or organ dysfunction, in the recovery phase.

Quality Improvement and Continuing Education:

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and research projects focused on improving outcomes for patients undergoing open heart surgery.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in cardiac care, surgical techniques, and best practices through continuing education, seminars, and conferences.
• Advocate for patient safety and care standards, ensuring compliance with hospital policies and guidelines.