Role Description
We are seeking an experienced Critical Care / Cath Lab Nurse to support high-risk cardiac procedures and complex ICU cases involving advanced mechanical circulatory support devices, including the Impella heart pump, intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), and ventricular assist devices (VADs).
The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with cardiologists and intensivists to deliver safe, evidence-based care to critically ill patients undergoing catheter-based interventions and receiving advanced cardiac support.
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Provide nursing care to critically ill cardiac patients in the ICU and Cath Lab, including pre-, intra-, and post-procedure support for high-risk PCI and other interventions.
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Assist cardiologists during catheter-based procedures, ensuring sterile technique, precise device setup, and continuous patient monitoring throughout the case.
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Monitor, interpret, and document vital signs, hemodynamic parameters, and telemetry, escalating changes to the medical team promptly.
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Operate and troubleshoot advanced cardiac support equipment, including Impella pumps, IABP consoles, and external VAD controllers, in collaboration with physicians and perfusionists.
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Administer medications, titrate vasoactive drips, and manage sedation and analgesia according to established protocols and orders.
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Perform head-to-toe assessments, ongoing reassessments, and comprehensive documentation in the electronic medical record for all assigned patients.
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Educate patients and families on procedures, post-procedure expectations, and device-related care, using clear, compassionate communication.
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Participate in multidisciplinary rounds, contribute to care planning, and coordinate safe discharge or transfer, including device weaning plans when applicable.
Qualifications
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Must have experience with the Impella device in a clinical setting (ICU or Cath Lab).
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Minimum 1-2 years of hands-on experience managing patients supported by Impella CP or similar Impella systems during high-risk PCI or cardiogenic shock.
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Demonstrated ability to set up, prime, start, monitor, and safely wean Impella devices according to institutional protocols and manufacturer guidelines.
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Prior experience working with intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABP), including insertion support, console operation, and troubleshooting alarms.
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Hands-on exposure to ventricular assist devices (VADs), such as LVADs, including basic controller checks, driveline care, and emergency response procedures.
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Must be able to clearly describe prior clinical scenarios where you managed patients on Impella, IABP, or VAD support, including complications and resolutions.
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Familiarity with advanced hemodynamic monitoring (arterial lines, central venous lines, and pulmonary artery catheters) and interpretation of pressure waveforms.
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Comfortable working in high-acuity environments, making quick, evidence-based decisions during emergencies and rapid clinical deterioration.
Requirements
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Experience supporting ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) patients in collaboration with perfusionists and intensivists.
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Prior work with cardiac assist devices beyond Impella, such as TandemHeart or other percutaneous mechanical circulatory support systems.
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Knowledge of Cath Lab imaging and equipment (fluoroscopy, contrast injectors, pressure transducers) and associated safety protocols.
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Strong understanding of sterile technique, infection control, and radiation safety in Cath Lab and ICU environments.
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Ability to interpret ECG rhythms, recognize ischemia and arrhythmias, and coordinate immediate interventions with the medical team.
General Qualifications
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Current RN license (state-specific) and eligibility to practice in a high-acuity cardiac care setting.
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; equivalent experience considered.
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3+ years of total nursing experience, with at least 2 years in ICU, CCU, or Cath Lab environments caring for critically ill cardiac patients.
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Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification required; Critical Care or Cardiac specialty certification preferred.
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Strong critical-thinking, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to perform under pressure in fast-paced clinical scenarios.