Travel Nurse RN - Radiology
State College, PA
Magnet Medical
3x12 hrs, Days

Patient Assessment and Care:

• Conduct initial assessments of patients’ health status, including medical history, allergies, and any concerns regarding the upcoming radiological procedure.
• Assess vital signs, monitor patient comfort, and ensure safety throughout the imaging or interventional procedure.
• Identify patient needs and provide appropriate nursing interventions, including managing anxiety and addressing any physical discomfort or medical conditions that could interfere with the procedure.

Preparation for Radiology Procedures:

• Prepare patients for imaging procedures, including positioning, explaining the procedure, and ensuring informed consent is obtained.
• Prepare necessary equipment, medications, and supplies, including contrast agents and sedatives, based on the procedure requirements.
• Administer prescribed medications (e.g., sedatives, contrast agents) and monitor patients for adverse reactions.
• Ensure patients are properly positioned for the procedure, ensuring both safety and image quality.

Assisting with Procedures:

• Assist radiologists and technologists during diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology procedures, such as biopsies, catheter placements, angiograms, and drain placements.
• Monitor patients during the procedure, managing sedation levels, pain relief, and any medical concerns that arise.
• Respond promptly to any complications or emergencies that occur during the procedure, such as allergic reactions, equipment failure, or patient distress.

Sedation and Pain Management:

• Administer and monitor sedation and anesthesia as per the physician’s orders and hospital protocols, ensuring patient safety.
• Assess the patient's response to sedation and adjust medication dosages as required.
• Provide pain management during and after radiology procedures, using appropriate interventions and medications.

Post-Procedure Care:

• Monitor patients closely after radiological procedures, particularly those that require sedation, to ensure their vital signs remain stable and they recover fully.
• Provide education on aftercare instructions, such as hydration, rest, and managing any side effects or discomfort following procedures like biopsies or angiograms.
• Document all patient assessments, interventions, and reactions in the electronic health record (EHR).

Patient Education:

• Educate patients on the specifics of their radiology procedures, explaining the process, potential side effects, and the purpose of the procedure.
• Answer any questions patients may have regarding the procedure, contrast agents, or aftercare.
• Provide guidance on post-procedural care, such as activity restrictions, signs of complications, and follow-up appointments.

Infection Control and Safety:

• Follow strict infection control protocols when handling patients and radiology equipment, especially during invasive or interventional procedures.
• Maintain a sterile field during procedures, ensuring aseptic techniques are used to reduce the risk of infection.
• Ensure the proper handling and disposal of radioactive materials, contrast agents, and other potentially hazardous substances according to hospital guidelines.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with radiologists, radiologic technologists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure patient care is coordinated and seamless.
• Communicate effectively with patients and families to provide updates on the procedure, any potential complications, and recovery progress.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team to review imaging results, discuss treatment options, and adjust care plans as necessary.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Document all nursing assessments, interventions, and patient responses in the medical record accurately and in a timely manner.
• Ensure that documentation reflects patient care, sedation details, medication administration, and any complications that arise.
• Report adverse reactions, equipment malfunctions, or concerns to the appropriate healthcare team members.

Quality Improvement and Continuing Education:

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives to improve patient outcomes, safety, and care efficiency in the radiology department.
• Engage in continuing education and training on new radiology procedures, advancements in imaging technologies, and best practices in patient care.