Cardiac Nurse Career Overview
Cardiac nurses collaborate with cardiologists and take on various responsibilities to treat both sudden and ongoing heart conditions.
When patients experience acute heart issues like heart attacks or cardiac arrest, these nurses use tools such as defibrillators. Cardiac nurses may also assist during heart surgeries. If you’re considering a career as a cardiovascular nurse, this guide provides insights into working in heart health and how to become a cardiac nurse.
Time Required to Pursue This Career
Becoming a cardiac nurse typically takes 4-6 years.
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Job Outlook
The job outlook for cardiac nurses is positive, with a projected 9% growth in the field from 2020 to 2030.
Earnings Potential
Cardiac nurses earn an average base salary of $88,646, but this can vary depending on factors like experience and location.
What Does a Cardiac Nurse Do?
Cardiac nurses work closely with cardiologists to address both acute and chronic heart conditions. In cases of acute heart problems such as heart attacks or cardiac arrest, they use devices like defibrillators. Additionally, they may provide support during heart surgeries.
Critical Care Nurse Career Overview
For patients with chronic heart conditions, cardiac nurses conduct monitoring and assessments. They are involved in various treatments, including advanced cardiac life support and procedures in catheterization laboratories.
Key Skills
– Proficiency in advanced cardiac life support
– Patient care expertise
– Competence in catheterization procedures
– Ability to operate defibrillators
– Strong critical thinking skills
– Effective communication abilities
Where Can You Find Cardiac Nurses?
Cardiac nurses are employed in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, intensive care units (ICUs), medical clinics, and long-term care facilities. Their roles differ depending on the specific setting:
ICU
In ICUs, cardiac nurses may administer medications and use defibrillators to respond to cardiac arrest or heart attack emergencies. They also utilize monitoring tools like hemodynamic and telemetry monitors, as well as intracardiac devices such as catheters and balloon pumps. Many Cardiac ICUs focus on post-surgery patient recovery.
Hospital Cardiology Unit
Cardiac nurses in hospital cardiology units monitor patients’ heart activity and electrocardiograms, administer medications and treatments, and educate patients and their families about their heart condition.
Hospital Surgical Unit
In surgical units, they prepare patients for heart surgery, assist surgeons during procedures, and support patients during the post-operative recovery period.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Pursuing a Career as a Cardiac Nurse
Advantages:
– Building meaningful patient relationships, especially in chronic care settings.
– Saving lives in critical care situations can be highly fulfilling.
– Potential for career growth, including becoming a cardiac nurse practitioner.
– Strong job security, given the ongoing importance of heart health in the U.S.
Disadvantages:
– The potential for stress and burnout, as working in cardiology units can be physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding.
– Irregular and long working hours, including being on-call during non-standard times.
– Dealing with challenging patients.
– Caring for some of the sickest patients in the hospital can be emotionally taxing.
Steps to Become a Cardiac Nurse
1. Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
Both programs, lasting four and two years respectively, prepare students to become professional nurses through a combination of theoretical instruction and clinical rotations.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN to obtain Registered Nurse (RN) licensure.
This national exam evaluates nursing knowledge and skills and is a prerequisite for state licensure.
3. Gain experience in cardiac nursing.
Entry-level positions are available for RNs looking to start a career in cardiac nursing. For those seeking certifications, a minimum of two years of experience, 2,000 hours of clinical cardiac-vascular nursing experience, and 30 continuing education hours are typically required.
4. Consider getting certified in cardiac nursing.
While certification requirements vary by employer, having a certification can improve your job prospects and earning potential. There are several certification options available, depending on your career goals.
5. Advance your career with a graduate degree.
Earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can open doors to becoming a cardiac nurse practitioner.
Certification Options for Cardiac Nurses
1. Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification (CV-BC):
Offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), this certification assesses nurses’ knowledge of cardiac-vascular assessment techniques. Requirements include at least two years of full-time RN experience, 3,000 hours of cardiovascular nursing work experience, and 30 hours of continuing education.
2. Cardiac Surgery Certification (CSC):
The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) provides this certification for nurses caring for critically ill patients after surgery. Qualifications include 1,750-2,000 hours of experience with acutely ill post-op patients.
3. Cardiac Medicine Certification (CMC):
Also from AACN, this certification is for registered nurses caring for acutely ill cardiac patients in units such as cardiac care units, ICUs, and telemetry. Applicants need 1,750-2,000 hours of experience working with critically ill patients.
4. Basic Life Support (BLS):
The American Red Cross grants BLS certification, which evaluates RNs’ CPR, defibrillator, and life support skills.
5. Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS):
This credential assesses nurses’ knowledge of life-saving skills in cardiopulmonary emergencies, such as resuscitation techniques and airway management. To qualify, candidates must complete a specific course.
How Much Do Cardiac Nurses Make?
Cardiac nursing salaries can vary based on factors like experience, location, and education level. On average, cardiac nurses earn a base salary of $88,646. Total pay for cardiac nursing professionals typically ranges between $51,000 and $90,000, according to Payscale.
The job outlook for nurses, in general, is optimistic. The field of registered nursing could see a 9% growth from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Given the aging population and the prevalence of heart disease in the U.S., the demand for cardiac nursing roles is also expected to increase.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Career as a Cardiac Nurse
1. How long does it take to become a cardiac nurse?
– To become a cardiac nurse, it can take 4-6 years. The duration depends on factors like whether you pursue a two-year ADN or a four-year BSN and whether you study full-time or part-time. Additionally, it might take longer to gain enough experience to apply for certification.
2. How do cardiac nurses collaborate with other healthcare professionals?
– Cardiac nurses often work in teams with fellow nurses and work under the supervision of cardiologists and heart surgeons. They assist these physicians with complex medical tasks.
3. What are the advantages of becoming a board-certified nurse?
– Board certification demonstrates expertise in cardiology nursing and can give job seekers an edge in the job market. It may also lead to opportunities for career advancement and better salary negotiations.
4. Are cardiac nurses in demand?
– Cardiac nurses are in demand due to the high prevalence of heart disease in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that heart disease is the leading cause of death for Americans. This means that the healthcare system will continue to require cardiac nursing professionals.
Resources for Cardiac Nurses
– Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association (PCNA):
PCNA promotes nurses as leaders in cardiovascular health. Members can access professional development opportunities, job boards, and networking events.
– American Heart Association (AHA):
AHA is a nonprofit organization advocating for cardiovascular health. They offer resources for healthcare professionals and individuals with heart disease, along with professional memberships and events.
– American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN):
AACN is an organization for critical and acute care nurses, including those specializing in cardiovascular health. They provide certifications, webinars, conferences, scholarships, and more.
– American Association of Heart Failure Nurses (AAHFN):
This organization focuses on heart failure nursing. Members can access educational resources, attend conferences, and apply for grants and scholarships to advance their careers in cardiovascular nursing.
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