Calling all cath lab RNs

Specialties Cardiac

Published

I have worked in E.R. for 15 yrs. Need a change bad! I've being courted by cath lab to come join them.

I'm trying to research the good/ bad / and ugly of cath lab nursing. Of course the Call seems to be the huge issue.

Some say I'll be too bored. But acute mi's keep it interesting, and I really don't want adrenaline all the time anymore- I'm 47 yrs old now--- want to lessen the stress level a little. My other option is ADON of ltc facility, Talk about change!

Any opinions welcome!!

Vicky RN

Specializes in geriatric, hospice, med/surg.

I get the feel that you'd be happier in the cath lab rather than as adon in ltc facility. Just from what I've observed in nurses who've taken on adon before...it would be more political, less handson, sometimes less stressful, but families and/or residents who are troublemakers make your life pure heck with their constant barrage of demands, and heaven forbid, if their beloved family member falls out of bed or isn't immediately diagnosed properly and treatment isn't given...!

I met my preceptor today. She was in the ICU for 20 years before working in the Cath Lab. I will be completing 320 hours this semester- Do you think that would qualify me for a Cath Lab position apon graduating?

At this Cath Lab all the nurses are very experienced. It's intiminating- but hopefully they will see I am willing to go the extra mile and a half with a lead apron on!

jmeador.... it sounds like you are going to have an excellent experience this semester. Unfortunately I still think that you will need to have the 1 or 2 years of CCU experience behind you before going to the CCL. It's really to your benefit. Even though you are going to probabaly see some great things during this semester you still need to have the basic building blocks and a solid critical thinking foundation. You will be amazed at how much responsibilty you have being a CCL nurse and how that experience will only benefit you, your team and your patients. Don't rush into a specialty, get the basic things down pat first. Best of luck to you....

Specializes in ED, CCL, PICC placement, Education.

I have been out of nursing school with my BSN for almost two years and I've been in a very busy ED since I graduated.

Recently I decided I need a change and I love anything cardiac. I accepted a position in a CCL that's not that busy. In their down time they insert PICCs, moderately sedate for CT guided cases, mediports, etc.

I orient in 3 weeks and I'm soooooo nervous. Since I've been in the ED I know a moderate amount of a little bit of everything and I don't want to look like a total moron. Any suggestions on some reading I can do or any helpful tips to lessen my anxiety?

Specializes in Open Heart.

I recently observed in the Cath Lab at Lehigh Valley(PA) Hospital and I really liked it. I have been accepted into the cardiac track of their critical care internship and I'd love to get a position in the Cath Lab.

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