The Cardiovascular Nurse (LPN or RN) is responsible for delivering patient care in support of cardiovascular physicians and medical staff, performing a wide range of clinical and administrative duties within the clinic. Depending on licensure, the nurse will either perform basic nursing tasks (LPN) or advanced clinical nursing duties (RN) to ensure the efficient delivery of care to patients. This role involves direct patient interaction, clinical assistance, documentation, and support of the healthcare team to optimize patient care.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Patient Care & Triage

• Assessment & Documentation :
  • Collect and document basic vital signs, medication lists, allergies, patient complaints, and medical history in both paper and electronic medical records (EMR).
  • Conduct more detailed assessments of patient conditions, including medical histories, patient complaints, and vital signs, and document in EMR.
• Patient Communication : Communicate any concerns or changes in patient condition to the physician/provider to support care decisions.

2. Clinical Support & Procedures

• Assist with Procedures :
  • LPN : Assist in basic diagnostic procedures (e.g., Holter monitors, blood draws, EKGs, stress tests).
  • RN : Provide assistance with more complex cardiovascular procedures and tests, including administering medications and treatments per physician orders.
• Patient Education : Educate patients on procedures, medications, and self-care techniques in line with physician instructions.

3. Administrative & Coordination Support

• Phone & Email Management : Respond to patient, pharmacy, and other healthcare provider inquiries.
• Documentation & Orders :
  • Accurately document clinical data and update patient records as needed.
  • Ensure all physician/provider orders are followed, review lab results, and assist in coordinating follow-up care.
• Form Assistance : Complete and assist patients with various forms (e.g., medical leave, physician statements, insurance forms).

4. Blood Work & Laboratory Procedures

• Perform Blood Work :
  • LPN : Perform basic blood draws (venipunctures and finger sticks).
  • RN : May also perform more specialized blood work and assist in specialized clinic duties (e.g., Coumadin clinics, pacemaker assessments).

5. Supply & Equipment Management

• Ordering & Maintenance : Assist in the ordering of medical supplies and maintaining equipment inventory.
• Routine Clinic Checks : Participate in required routine checks of equipment, such as crash carts, medication refrigerators, and defibrillators.

6. Compliance & Safety

• Regulatory Compliance : Follow all safety, HIPAA, and CIS clinic protocols to ensure compliance with medical and legal standards.
• Patient Confidentiality : Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA standards.
• Clinic Safety : Report safety issues immediately and ensure proper clinic safety protocols are adhered to.

Qualifications:

1. Licensure :
   
   • LPN : Current, unencumbered Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in the state of Louisiana.
   • RN : Current, unencumbered Registered Nurse licensure in the state of Louisiana.
2. Experience :
   
   • Previous clinical experience is preferred, particularly in cardiology or a related field.
3. Certifications :
   
   • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
   • Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification preferred.
4. Skills :
   
   • LPN : Ability to perform basic clinical procedures, accurate documentation, and patient care under the supervision of a physician or RN.
   • RN : Advanced clinical knowledge, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. Proficiency with EMR systems and healthcare technologies.

Performance Expectations:

1. Professionalism & Teamwork :
   
   • Maintain professional conduct with physicians, staff, and patients at all times.
   • Collaborate effectively with other healthcare providers and team members.
2. Time Management & Organization :
   
   • Manage time effectively, complete tasks in a timely manner, and assist others when duties are finished.
3. Accuracy & Compliance :
   
   • Complete all documentation accurately and on time. Adhere to clinic policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with safety, HIPAA, and medical documentation guidelines.
4. Patient Care & Communication :
   
   • Communicate effectively with patients, families, and the healthcare team to ensure quality patient care.
   • Maintain patient confidentiality at all times.

Job Summary:
The Cardiovascular Nurse (LPN or RN) plays an integral role in delivering high-quality patient care, supporting physicians, and ensuring the smooth operation of the cardiovascular clinic. Whether in an LPN or RN capacity, the nurse will deliver essential care, assist with clinical procedures, and maintain accurate documentation. This position requires a detail-oriented and compassionate individual who is able to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment to support the clinic's mission of excellent patient care.