Adult Cardiac APC

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The population of patients managed/cared for includes, but is not limited to those with acute decompensated heart failure, post-operative complex cardiac surgical procedures, acute myocardial infarction, complicated endocarditis, aortic dissections, percutaneous temporary ventricular assist support devices, and LVADs.

 Performs comprehensive History & Physical, Consults, and inpatient daily surgical progress notes on adult cardiothoracic patients in CVICU and step-down units in conjunction with collaborating physician(s). Assessment and management of chest tubes, epicardial wires, central venous lines.

Management of anti-arrhythmic medications, anti-coagulation and titration of

 inotropic medications. Performs outpatient post-operative follow-up care in the office.                                                                                                                    

• Assesses the physical and psychosocial status of clients by means of interview, health history, physical examination, and diagnostic studies.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Recognizes deviations from normal in the physical assessment. Works in collaboration with a physician in formulating treatment plans for health problems and follow-up.
• Writes prescriptions for medication, blood tests, routine diagnostic and follow-up studies and therapeutic measures.
• Requests consultation from physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure appropriate and quality patient care.
• Interprets and evaluates findings of studies/tests.
• Relays appropriate information regarding patient care to the collaborating physician.
• Evaluates the quality of care provided and recommends changes for improvement.
• Initiates appropriate actions to facilitate the implementation of therapeutic plans that are consistent with the continuing healthcare needs of the patient.
• Work with and direct a multidisciplinary critical care team including nursing staff, social workers, respiratory therapists, nutritionists, physical/occupation/speech therapists, and pharmacists to provide patient-focused care
• Initiate discussions involving ethical issues and patients' wishes in making treatment decisions, using advance directives, health care proxies, the Hospital Bioethics Committee
• Communicate with caring and respectful behaviors with patients, families, and other involved members of the healthcare team about all treatment decisions and patient prognosis
• Works both collaboratively and independently.
• Shares clinical expertise with professional and supportive personnel. Facilitate the learning of residents, students, and other health care professionals
• Documents and reports care in an accurate, timely manner.
• Works effectively with others. Collaborates with other health disciplines to ensure continuity and quality of care.
• Promotes evidenced-based nursing practice/research by participating in clinical research and leading efforts in scientific inquiry.
• Discharges hospitalized patients at the direction of the attending physician and completes discharge summaries of patients’ hospitalization.
• Maintains professional certification in the specialty area; attends and participates in national, regional, and/or local educational conferences.
• Varied schedule (weekend rounds required, holiday coverage required)
• Other duties as assigned.