Cardiothoracic Nurse at Reddington Hospital

The Cardiothoracic Nurse provides specialized nursing care to patients undergoing surgical procedures of the heart, lungs, esophagus, and other organs within the chest cavity.

Patient Care

• Deliver evidence-based nursing care to patients before, during, and after cardiothoracic surgeries (CABG, valve replacements, thoracotomies, lung resections, transplants, etc.).

Preoperative & Postoperative Care

• Educate patients and families on surgical procedures, risks, recovery expectations, and self-care.
• Prepare patients for surgery by ensuring informed consent, pre-op assessments, and adherence to safety protocols.
• Support recovery by monitoring surgical sites, preventing infection, and ensuring mobilization and rehabilitation.

Collaboration & Teamwork

• Work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, perfusionists, and respiratory therapists to ensure seamless care.
• Participate in multidisciplinary rounds and care planning meetings.
• Assist in intraoperative support (e.g., handling instruments, ensuring sterility, and providing surgeon assistance when needed).

Clinical Expertise & Documentation

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of patient care, medications, and progress.
• Utilize advanced technology such as cardiac monitors, ventilators, and infusion pumps.
• Uphold infection prevention and control standards in all clinical activities.

Professional Development & Compliance

• Stay current with cardiothoracic nursing best practices, guidelines, and research.
• Adhere to hospital policies, regulatory requirements, and professional nursing standards.
• Mentor junior nurses, interns, and student nurses when required.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Registered Nurse (RN) with a Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc) or equivalent.
• Licensure: Current Nursing and Midwifery Council license (or equivalent in country of practice).
• Experience: Minimum 2–3 years of nursing experience; at least 1 year in cardiothoracic.
• Certifications: specialty certification in cardiothoracic/critical CCRN care nursing, BLS and ACLS required.
• Skills:
• Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking abilities.
• Proficiency in ventilator and hemodynamic monitoring.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to handle high-stress situations and make quick, sound decisions.

Core Competencies

• Patient-centered care
• Clinical expertise in cardiothoracic and critical care
• Adaptability and resilience under pressure
• Compassion and empathy in patient interactions
• Strong ethical and professional standards
• Conduct comprehensive patient assessments including vital signs, hemodynamic monitoring, and respiratory function.
• Administer medications, IV fluids, and blood products safely and accurately.
• Monitor patients in critical care and step-down units, recognizing and responding promptly to signs of deterioration.
• Provide wound care, chest tube management, ventilator support, and pain management.