Description
Deliver specialized nursing care to acutely and critically ill cardiac patients in a monitored/ICU setting. Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate cardiac-focused care; continuously monitor telemetry and hemodynamics; titrate cardiovascular medications; assist with cardiac procedures; educate patients and families; maintain accurate records; and collaborate with cardiology and critical care teams. Active RN license and ACLS certification required.
- • Maintain accurate, detailed electronic medical records and flow sheets.
- • Continuously monitor telemetry and hemodynamics; recognize and report dysrhythmias and acute changes.
- • Record and trend vital signs, intake/output, and focused cardiac assessments.
- • Titrate vasoactive and antiarrhythmic infusions per protocol; monitor for effects and adverse reactions.
- • Update individualized cardiac care plans based on patient response and orders.
- • Coordinate care with cardiologists, intensivists, pharmacists, respiratory therapy, and the cath lab.
- • Prepare for and assist with cardiac catheterization, PCI, TEE, external pacing, and cardioversion.
- • Recover post-procedure patients; manage access sites, bleeding risk, and sedation recovery.
- • Obtain 12-lead ECGs and lab specimens; trend troponin and electrolytes and report critical results.
- • Implement chest pain and acute coronary syndrome protocols promptly.
- • Manage heart failure plans, including diuresis, fluid/sodium restriction, and daily weights.
- • Manage oxygen therapy and noninvasive ventilation; monitor oxygenation and ABGs with respiratory therapy.
- • Respond to rapid responses and code blues; perform ACLS and defibrillation per scope.
- • Provide central line, arterial line, and device site care using aseptic technique.
- • Enforce infection prevention and CLABSI/CAUTI reduction practices.
- • Assess and manage pain, anxiety, and delirium; ensure comfort and safety.
- • Educate patients and families on disease, procedures, medications, and recovery.
- • Plan discharges and referrals, including cardiac rehab and outpatient follow-up.
- • Check emergency equipment, telemetry systems, and maintain stock of cardiac supplies.
- • Precept staff and students and act as charge nurse as assigned.
- • Participate in quality improvement and AMI/HF core measure compliance.
- • Adhere to unit policies, standing orders, and evidence-based protocols.
- • Apply fall, pressure injury, and restraint safety protocols.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
