Travel Nurse RN - Cardiology
San Antonio, TX
Magnet Medical
5x8 hrs, Days

Patient Assessment and Monitoring:

• Conduct thorough cardiovascular assessments, including taking detailed health histories, performing physical exams, and monitoring vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation).
• Monitor patients for signs of complications such as arrhythmias, heart failure, or myocardial infarction.
• Utilize advanced monitoring equipment (e.g., telemetry, ECG, Holter monitors) to assess heart rhythms, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.
• Track changes in patients' conditions and immediately report significant findings to the healthcare team for timely interventions.

Clinical Care and Procedures:

• Administer prescribed medications, including antihypertensives, anticoagulants, diuretics, and antiarrhythmic drugs, while monitoring for side effects and therapeutic effectiveness.
• Assist with diagnostic procedures such as stress tests, cardiac catheterizations, echocardiograms, and angioplasty, and provide patient education related to these procedures.
• Provide pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing cardiovascular surgeries, including coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), valve replacements, or arrhythmia surgeries.
• Manage postoperative care, including monitoring cardiac output, fluid balance, pain management, and preventing complications such as infection or blood clots.

Care Plan Development:

• Collaborate with cardiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare providers to develop personalized care plans for patients with cardiovascular conditions.
• Adjust care plans based on patient progress, test results, and changes in clinical status.
• Support the patient in managing chronic cardiovascular conditions, such as heart failure or hypertension, with ongoing education and lifestyle changes.

Patient and Family Education:

• Educate patients and families on managing cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease prevention, dietary modifications, physical activity, and the importance of medication adherence.
• Provide instruction on monitoring for signs of cardiovascular complications, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, or dizziness, and when to seek immediate medical care.
• Offer support and guidance to patients and families coping with the emotional aspects of heart disease and recovery, including stress management and mental health considerations.

Emergency Response and Critical Care:

• Respond promptly to cardiovascular emergencies such as arrhythmias, heart attacks, or cardiac arrest, providing life-saving interventions including CPR, defibrillation, and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS).
• Manage patients experiencing acute cardiovascular conditions, such as myocardial infarctions or severe arrhythmias, ensuring timely and effective treatment.
• Monitor and manage patients receiving thrombolytic therapy, mechanical circulatory support, or other advanced cardiac interventions.

Coordination of Care:

• Coordinate patient care with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, ensuring comprehensive care through collaboration with cardiologists, primary care providers, physical therapists, dietitians, and social workers.
• Ensure that appropriate diagnostic tests, treatments, and follow-up care are scheduled and provided.
• Assist in arranging referrals for patients needing advanced care, including heart transplants or specialized cardiology care.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Document patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes accurately in the electronic medical record (EMR) according to facility protocols.
• Report any changes in patient conditions, including adverse reactions to medications or complications from treatments, to the medical team promptly.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, documentation requirements, and quality improvement initiatives.

Quality Improvement and Professional Development:

• Participate in cardiovascular care quality improvement programs, monitoring outcomes, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring adherence to evidence-based guidelines.
• Stay updated on the latest developments in cardiovascular care, including new treatments, medications, and technologies.
• Engage in continuous learning and professional development, attending conferences, workshops, and pursuing certifications related to cardiovascular nursing (e.g., CCRN, CMC, CSC).