The Cath Lab Scrub Nurse is responsible for assisting interventional cardiologists and the Cath Lab team during diagnostic and interventional cardiovascular procedures. The role requires expertise in scrubbing for complex cases, maintaining a sterile environment, ensuring patient safety, and providing high-quality nursing care in compliance with hospital protocols and standards.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical & Technical Responsibilities:
Prepare the Cath Lab procedure room with necessary sterile instruments, equipment, and consumables before each case.
Scrub and assist cardiologists during diagnostic angiography, angioplasty, pacemaker/ICD implantation, and other interventional cardiac procedures.
Ensure proper handling and accountability of all instruments, guide wires, catheters, stents, and other devices.
Maintain strict aseptic and sterile techniques throughout procedures.
Monitor patient condition intraoperatively and assist with emergency interventions when required.
Assist with equipment operation (e.g., defibrillator, hemodynamic monitoring systems) as per scope of practice.
Support post-procedure care including safe transfer of patients and handover to recovery/ICU staff.
Nursing & Patient Care:
Verify patient identity, consent forms, and pre-procedure checklists.
Ensure patient comfort, dignity, and safety before, during, and after procedures.
Administer prescribed medications under supervision as per protocol.
Maintain accurate documentation of procedures, implants used, and nursing interventions.
Assist in managing complications (arrhythmias, bleeding, cardiac arrest) under the guidance of physicians.
Operational Responsibilities:
Ensure all equipment and devices are sterilized, functional, and ready for use.
Monitor stock of consumables (catheters, stents, syringes, contrast, medications) and inform the in-charge for replenishment.
Adhere strictly to infection control policies and Cath Lab protocols.
Participate in quality assurance programs, audits, and training sessions.
Maintain confidentiality of patient records and hospital information.
Qualifications & Skills Required
Education:
B.Sc. Nursing / GNM with valid nursing registration.
Experience:
Minimum 1-2 years of experience as a scrub nurse; Cath Lab experience preferred.
Skills & Competencies:
Strong knowledge of sterile techniques and Cath Lab procedures.
Ability to anticipate surgeon's needs and respond quickly in emergencies.
Good communication and teamwork skills.
Critical thinking and quick decision-making ability.
Physical stamina and ability to work in high-stress environments.