Hemodynamic Monitoring

[Pompom]

We have done less and less invasive hemodynamic monitoring in my unit. I have not seen a swan ganz in more than 2 yrs. Unfortunately I feel that my skill is declining. Precepting new nurses to the CCU is difficult when you don't have anyone with a swan. What do you do to keep current when your unit is lagging?

[dianah, ASN]

I don't work ICU anymore, but I'd suggest you brainstorm with other nurses, and possibly your unit coordinator/manager, to 1) make sure all P & P manuals are kept up-to-date and easy to follow, and 2) create a mock-up of the monitoring device(s) (for hands-on review) and maybe a power-point or a flashcard how-to, for a staff refresher, and 3) find other areas in the hospital that DO more hemodynamic monitoring (OR, the Cath Lab . .) and talk w/the staff or managers of those areas, to allow you access during a case, for exposure. Is there a teaching hospital nearby that might have masters-prepared students who can give inservice, as part of their training?? Maybe one of the vendors of the equipment can come by once or twice a year (or once a quarter) for inservice/updates . . . Good luck!!

[augigi, CNS]

Check out the edwards website too - they have great swan case studies accessible online.