Peceptorship in Heart cath lab

[Optimistic_RN_]

I'm currently considering doing my preceptorship/ final practicum in the heart cath lab ,but i feel that it may be somewhat overwhelming due to not having extensive background in cardiac. I know that as a student I won't be expected to know everything , it would be highly appreciated if i could get some feedback on what skills to focus on and to hear from anyone else who did their preceptorship in the cath lab

[Horseshoe, BSN, RN]

Well, the main focus there will be on the anatomy and physiology of the heart, with very special attention to the vessels which feed the heart muscle. Review the path of the femoral artery as it goes into the heart, so you understand what the doc is doing when he access the femoral artery in order to examine the coronary arteries. I'd do some intensive cramming on those things before you start. Also pay attention to the electrical system found in the heart; understand where the impulses begin, where they go next, and where they terminate, as well as becoming familiar with dysfunction of the electrical system, how it can go wrong.

You can read up on conscious sedation, pacemakers, myocardial infarction, ACLS protocols.

Nowadays, some cath labs are involved with treating blockages of the cerebral arteries and peripheral vessels which feed the legs. It's not just heart angioplasty and stents anymore.

You are lucky to have that option!

[Optimistic_RN_]

Thanks , your insight is very useful , I've purchased some cardiac care made incredibly easy books hopefully they'll help some too. I know I'm very lucky to have the option I had a choice between dialysis , OR, and the cath lab (i'm interested in all 3 fields) , and I choose the one i thought would be the most challenging . Although I'm currently freaking out I'm sure I wont have any regrets in the end .