NurseTrishBSN

You first need a PCCN or CCRN prior to obtaining either one of these certifications. That can be a little costly so it's something else to consider.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions! And don’t be surprised by the weird personalities in the cath lab. It’s also interesting that you will be working with medics side by side so that makes for a different environment. Good luck!

Usually at my facility the cath lab will notify the charge nurse if a patient is not coming back so they can make plans for another patient. As far as the meds there should have been orders or you call and ask the cath lab or provider. Very few instances have I seen to hold meds for a cath.

Hi, have you been able to see some improvement? How are you doing now that a little time has passed?

Cardiac unit educator here. Our new grads go through a nurse residency program of 16 weeks. It varies based on the size of the hospital and acuity of the patients. Our nurses take a max of 4 patients. This hospital is growing pretty quickly with a current capacity for 260 patients. Hope this helps!

I was a CNA before ever thinking of becoming an RN. Would I recommend do it prior to nursing school? Probably if you can get a position with the facility you would like to work in as a new grad. It won’t make things faster while in school but will give you a better appreciation for the hospital culture.

If the PICC line is infected, why is it still in?

We get bi-annual bonuses based off our press ganey scores. Maybe about $200 each or so. Everywhere else I've worked we never got a bonus.