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.