ER to CATH lab?

Published

Please bear with me as I am researching other areas to work....I've been in er over 20yrs, totally burned out now, want a change. Wondering about cath lab but I've never even been inside of one. I don't want ICU or med-surg. Also considering PACU but still researching. I have 30yrs of nursing and have at least 15 more to go. Have acls, tncc, pals, so I'm not afraid of studying. I would love to hear from you!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I have been in the cath lab for 4 years now, at 3 different hospitals and every lab had its own quirks. I suggest you take some time to observe for a day or so in the lab, get a feel for the doctor/staff personalities and carefully consider the impact of taking call on your life. Remember that you do not get the extra 2 days off for your on-call weekend. It is a unique and very specialized area. A supportive and organized orientiation is necessary as it is nothing you learned in school. Nurses find themselves to love it or hate it. Good luck in your quest.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion