What does a cath lab RN do?
Cath lab RNs usually work with people who have chronic ailments and older patients with heart conditions. They provide direct nursing care to patients undergoing therapeutic and diagnostic cardiac procedures. Responsibilities include examining patients, preparing them before procedures and monitoring their status with imaging equipment to ensure there is adequate blood flow throughout their body. Cath lab RNs also look for blockages that may indicate a need for further intervention.
Cath lab RNs are responsible for post-procedure patient care, as well. They teach patients about the recovery process, coordinate discharge planning and make referrals to ensure continuity of care.
Cath lab RN skills and qualifications
The ideal cath lab RN should have the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in their role, including:
- Ability to communicate effectively with patients, their families and medical staff
- Comfort working in a high-pressure environment
- Quick decision-making skills
- Ability to keep patient records and materials organized
- Strong eye for detail required to monitor patient status
- Knowledge of monitoring equipment and ability to troubleshoot problems
Cath lab RN experience requirements
Cath lab RNs typically have experience providing direct nursing care for cardiovascular patients, usually in a general hospital or trauma hospital setting. They should have a demonstrated history of working professionally with patients and medical staff. Hospitals prefer cath lab RNs who can work in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision.
Cath lab RN education and training requirements
Education, training and certifications are very important for cath lab RN careers. To become a cath lab RN, nurses must hold either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from an accredited nursing program. Candidates must also have passed the NCLEX-RN exam and hold an active RN license in the state of practice.
Other important certifications include Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). Cath lab RNs are recommended to obtain their Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification as well.
Cath lab RN salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a cath lab RN is $136,754 per year. Salaries vary by location, experience and employer.
Job descriptions for similar positions
If the cath lab RN job description doesn’t match what you’re looking for, consider one of these job descriptions for similar positions:
- Nurse Practitioner
- LVN Licensed Vocational Nurse
- Intensive Care Unit Nurse
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Cath lab RN job description FAQs
How often are cath lab nurses on-call?
Many hospitals require cath lab RNs to be available on-call at certain times, which means they must come to work on an as-needed basis. The actual number of on-call hours and scheduling varies by hospital. Some cath lab RNs work a few days per week on-call, while others may be on-call every other week. Almost every cath lab RN is expected to work on-call some of the time, so make this requirement clear to candidates during the hiring process.
How do you interview a cath lab nurse?
When interviewing cath lab RN candidates, ask in-depth questions to learn how they handle specific situations on the job. For example, you may ask the candidate to outline how they assist the medical team during procedures or how they monitor patients for symptoms of infection post-procedure. You can gauge the candidate’s conflict resolution skills by asking how they handle disagreements with staff or which methods they might use to calm an upset patient.
What makes a good cath lab nurse?
Aside from obtaining a BNS/ADN degree, good cath lab RNs can demonstrate their knowledge and ability through a number of certifications, exams and training programs. Passing a test such as the NCLEX shows an understanding of hemodynamics, catheterization procedures, heart diseases, EKG interpretation and more. Cath lab RNs should also have strong interpersonal skills to work with a variety of patients, doctors and other care staff. The best cath lab RNs are compassionate, flexible and good at thinking on their feet.
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