RN - Chicago,IL Job Chicago area,Illinois USA,Nursing

RN Cath Lab Acute Care

A Cath Lab RN is a registered nurse who provides specialized, acute care in the cardiac catheterization laboratory, working closely with interventional cardiologists to perform and support diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac procedures. The role combines ICU-level hemodynamic monitoring with OR-level procedural support in a fast-paced, technology-intensive environment.

Core Acute Care Duties

Pre-procedure care
Perform focused cardiovascular assessment, review allergies, and verify informed consent
Prepare patients: establish IV access, check labs (creatinine, coagulation), confirm NPO status, and ensure vascular access site is ready
Assist with consent forms and document pre-procedure checks

Procedural support

Circulate and/or scrub during cardiac catheterization, angiography, stent placement, electrophysiology studies, device implantations, and structural heart procedures

Operate specialized equipment: intra-aortic balloons, physiological recorders, ECG monitors, and imaging systems

Administer and monitor medications: heparin, contrast, nitroglycerin, vasopressors, antiarrhythmics

Manage hemodynamic monitoring: arterial lines, PA catheters, IABP, Impella support

Administer conscious sedation and monitor for adverse reactions

Acute emergency response

Rapidly transition to high-acuity STEMI activation mode when a patient with an active heart attack arrives

Provide immediate interventions, including emergency defibrillation, vasopressor support, and hemodynamic stabilization

Post-procedure care

Manage groin or radial access sites for bleeding, infection, or thrombosis

Monitor patients for complications and provide post-procedure education on recovery, medications, and lifestyle

Documentation and coordination

Chart patient data, consent forms, lab results, and procedure details

Collaborate with physicians, technicians, and other staff to ensure safe, efficient care

Skills & Competencies

Clinical skills: Advanced cardiac monitoring, vascular access, medication management, emergency response
Technical skills: Sterile technique, aseptic procedures, radiation safety
Communication: Clear coordination with interventional teams and patient/family education
Certifications often required: ACLS, BLS, RCIS (Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist), CCRN, CAVS/CEPS

RN - Chicago, IL