Physician Assistant
1. Pre-Operative Care:
- Patient Evaluation: Assist in obtaining a detailed patient history, performing physical exams, and documenting findings in the patient’s medical records.
- Diagnostic Support: Order and assist with interpreting diagnostic tests (e.g., ECG, X-rays, lab tests) under the supervision of a physician.
- Patient Education: Provide patients with information regarding their upcoming cardiac surgery, including risks, benefits, and expected recovery.
- Preparing for Surgery: Assist in ensuring all pre-operative instructions are followed, such as medication management, fasting, and pre-operative testing.
2. Intra-Operative Assistance:
- Surgical Support: Assist during cardiac surgeries (e.g., coronary artery bypass, valve replacement) by handling instruments, providing sterile support, and assisting surgeons as directed.
- Monitoring: Monitor the patient’s vitals, anesthesia, and overall status during surgery, ensuring everything is functioning smoothly.
3. Post-Operative Care:
- Immediate Post-Op Monitoring: Monitor patients in the ICU or recovery units for signs of complications (e.g., infection, arrhythmias, bleeding).
- Documentation: Maintain accurate and thorough medical records, including progress notes, daily assessments, and discharge instructions.
- Patient Recovery: Assist in managing the post-operative recovery plan, including medication administration, wound care, and physical therapy.
- Patient and Family Communication: Educate patients and their families on post-surgical care, medications, and lifestyle changes required for recovery.
4. Patient Education & Communication:
- Explain Procedures and Medications: Provide clear, understandable information about treatment options, surgical procedures, and recovery expectations.
- Monitor for Complications: Watch for early signs of complications such as infections, clotting issues, or arrhythmias and notify the healthcare team immediately.
5. Collaboration & Teamwork:
- Work with Medical Team: Collaborate with the cardiothoracic surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide seamless patient care.
- Multidisciplinary Rounds: Participate in daily rounds and case discussions to ensure coordinated care planning for each patient.
6. Administrative Duties:
- Accurate Documentation: Maintain up-to-date patient records in the electronic medical record (EMR) system, including patient history, treatment plans, and progress notes.
- Assist with Discharges: Prepare discharge summaries and ensure that all discharge instructions are provided to the patient and their family.
- Inventory Management: Help manage supplies and surgical instruments in the department, ensuring that all materials are sterile and in good condition.
7. Continuous Learning:
- Stay Updated: Stay current with the latest advancements in cardiac surgery and patient care through continuous education, training, and professional development.
- Attend Workshops: Participate in relevant workshops and seminars to enhance skills and knowledge in the cardiac care field.