Job Description
Job Purpose
The Specialist Nurse (Outpatient Cardiology Clinic) will be responsible for providing comprehensive care to patients with cardiac conditions. He/She will carry out activities such as assessing patients, administering medications, educating patients, and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals etc.
Core Responsibilities
Patient Care:
- Conduct thorough assessments of patients, including taking detailed medical histories, performing physical examinations, and reviewing diagnostic test results.
- Provide clear and concise patient education on cardiac conditions, medications, lifestyle modifications, and self-care strategies.
- Assist patients in managing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
- Respond to acute cardiac events and initiate appropriate interventions.
Clinical Procedures:
- Perform and interpret ECGs to identify arrhythmias, ischemia, and other cardiac abnormalities.
- Monitor blood pressure and identify hypertension or hypotension.
- Perform venipuncture to obtain blood samples for laboratory testing.
- Administer intravenous medications and fluids under the supervision of a physician.
- Perform point-of-care tests, such as rapid cardiac troponin tests and blood glucose monitoring.
Diagnostic Procedures:
- Assist with non-invasive cardiac procedures, such as stress tests, Holter monitoring, and echocardiograms.
- Collect and document patient data, including vital signs, symptoms, and test results.
Coordination and Collaboration:
- Work closely with cardiologists, other nurses, and allied health professionals to ensure seamless patient care.
- Coordinate referrals to other specialists as needed.
- Schedule and manage patient appointments efficiently.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records.
Quality Improvement and Research:
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and outcomes.
- Contribute to clinical research studies to advance the field of cardiology.
- Stay updated with the latest evidence-based guidelines and incorporate them into clinical practice.
Qualifications
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing or equivalent from a recognized institution OR;
- Diploma in Nursing with post-basic training in Cardiovascular nursing.
Professional Requirements
- Specialized certifications in cardiac nursing or advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) will be an added advantage.
- Current and valid nursing license
- Active participation in continuing education programs to maintain competency and stay updated on the latest advancements in cardiology.
Experience Requirements
- Minimum of 3 years of current clinical nursing experience, with at least 2 years specializing in cardiovascular administration with a focus on outpatient care.
- Proven ability to assess and manage patients with a wide range of cardiac conditions, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, valvular heart disease, and hypertensive heart disease.
- Extensive experience in performing and assisting with non-invasive cardiac procedures, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), stress tests, Holter monitoring, and blood pressure monitoring.
- Proficiency in administering medications, including intravenous medications, under the supervision of a physician.
Knowledge Requirements
- In-depth understanding of the structure and function of the cardiovascular system.
- Knowledge of the pathophysiology of various cardiac conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and valvular heart disease.
- Understanding of cardiac medications, their indications, side effects, and interactions.
- Knowledge of various diagnostic tests used in cardiology, including ECGs, stress tests, echocardiograms, and cardiac catheterization.
- Knowledge of current clinical guidelines and best practices in cardiology.
- Knowledge of emergency procedures, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS).
Skill Requirements
- Ability to assess and monitor patients' vital signs, cardiac symptoms, and overall condition.
- Effective communication skills to interact with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
- Proficiency in performing ECGs, blood pressure measurements, and other clinical procedures.
- Ability to troubleshoot problems and make sound clinical decisions.
- Effective time management skills to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
- Proficiency in using electronic health records and other computer software.
Personal Abilities
- Ability to understand and respond to patients' emotional needs.
- Adherence to ethical principles and maintaining confidentiality.
- Meticulous attention to detail in documentation and patient care.
- Ability to adapt to changing clinical situations and priorities.
- Ability to work effectively with other healthcare professionals.
- Self-motivated and able to work independently.
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.