GENERAL OVERVIEW

The Stress/Diagnostic RN will serve as a clinical lead in the non-invasive imaging suite. Responsible for the clinical integrity of cardiac stress testing (Nuclear and Echo), patient triage, and emergency response. Will collaborate with Nuclear Med Technologists and Cardiologists to provide high-level diagnostic data while ensuring patient safety.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Stress Test Oversight: Lead treadmill and pharmacological stress tests. Determine protocol appropriateness, monitor real-time 12-lead EKGs, identify arrhythmias, and execute medication or contrast injections (Definity/Lumason) at peak stress.
• Clinical Assessment: Perform comprehensive pre-test assessments, including history review, IV access, and medication reconciliation.
• Emergency Response: Act as a first responder for life-threatening emergencies within the clinic; maintain the integrity of crash carts, ACLS drugs, and defibrillation equipment.
• Patient Education: Translate complex diagnostic procedures into understandable instructions for patients and families, ensuring informed consent and post-procedure review and care compliance.
• Care Coordination: Manage telephone triage, review prior authorizations for diagnostic imaging, and coordinate patient flow to optimize clinic efficiency.
• Quality & Compliance: Review orders and test appropriateness, adhere to radiation safety (ALARA) standards and maintain accurate CPT/ICD-10 documentation for diagnostic reporting.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Missouri Registered Nurse license, and current CPR and ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certifications required.
• Minimum of 1 year of acute care experience, preferably in Cardiology, ICU, or ER.
• Mastery of 12-lead EKG interpretation, IV initiation, and hemodynamic monitoring.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity for IV starts and equipment operation.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. and assist in patient positioning.

ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS: Outpatient clinic environment. Frequent exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances, medicinal preparations and other conditions common to a clinic environment.