Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Endoscopy Nurse (GI RN)
💰 $85,000 - $125,000
HealthcareNursingGastroenterologyProcedural Nursing
🎯 Role Definition
As a vital member of our interdisciplinary healthcare team, the Endoscopy Nurse (also known as a GI Nurse) provides specialized nursing care to patients undergoing diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures. This includes comprehensive patient assessment, administering conscious sedation, and diligent monitoring to ensure patient safety and comfort. You will collaborate closely with gastroenterologists, technicians, and anesthesiologists to facilitate a smooth, safe, and effective procedural experience. This position requires a unique blend of technical proficiency, critical thinking, and exceptional patient communication, making it a cornerstone of our Gastroenterology service line's success.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Medical-Surgical Nurse
- Critical Care (ICU) Nurse
- Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) Nurse
- Operating Room (OR) / Perioperative Nurse
Advancement To:
- Lead Endoscopy Nurse / Charge Nurse
- Gastroenterology/Endoscopy Unit Nurse Manager
- Clinical Nurse Educator (Specializing in GI)
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Gastroenterology
Lateral Moves:
- Interventional Radiology Nurse
- Cardiac Catheterization (Cath Lab) Nurse
- Special Procedures Nurse
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Conduct comprehensive pre-procedure patient assessments, including reviewing medical history, allergies, and current medications to ensure patient readiness for the procedure.
- Provide detailed patient and family education regarding the procedure, expected sensations, and post-procedure care instructions, ensuring informed consent is obtained.
- Skillfully establish and maintain intravenous (IV) access for the administration of medications and fluids.
- Administer and manage moderate (conscious) sedation under the direction of the physician, titrating medications based on patient response and assessment data.
- Continuously monitor patient's vital signs, oxygen saturation, cardiac rhythm, and level of consciousness throughout the procedure and into the recovery phase.
- Act as a patient advocate, ensuring their safety, comfort, and dignity are maintained at all times during their visit.
- Assist the physician during various endoscopic procedures, including EGD, colonoscopy, ERCP, and EUS, by handling instruments, managing specimens, and anticipating procedural needs.
- Accurately collect, label, and document all tissue biopsies and specimens obtained during the procedure for pathological analysis.
- Perform immediate post-procedure care, monitoring for complications such as bleeding, perforation, or adverse reactions to sedation.
- Assess patient readiness for discharge based on established criteria, ensuring they are stable, alert, and have met all recovery milestones.
- Meticulously document all aspects of patient care, including assessments, medication administration, interventions, and patient responses in the electronic health record (EHR).
- Respond effectively to and manage any medical emergencies or patient complications that may arise during the peri-procedural period.
- Ensure proper handling, cleaning, high-level disinfection, and sterilization of all endoscopes and related equipment according to manufacturer guidelines and infection control policies.
- Prepare the procedure room with all necessary equipment, supplies, and medications, ensuring everything is functional and readily available.
- Communicate effectively with the entire healthcare team, including physicians, anesthesia providers, and techs, to ensure a coordinated and safe patient experience.
- Manage patient flow within the endoscopy unit to optimize efficiency and minimize wait times while maintaining high standards of care.
- Provide compassionate emotional support to patients and their families, addressing their anxieties and concerns with empathy.
- Participate in the "time out" process before every procedure to verify correct patient, correct procedure, and correct site.
- Troubleshoot common issues with endoscopic equipment and report any malfunctions for repair promptly.
- Adhere to all hospital, state, and federal regulations and standards of care, including HIPAA and patient safety protocols.
Secondary Functions
- Participate in departmental quality improvement and patient safety initiatives to enhance clinical outcomes and the patient experience.
- Assist in maintaining accurate inventory of medical supplies, medications, and equipment within the endoscopy unit.
- Act as a preceptor or mentor for new nursing staff, students, and GI technicians, sharing knowledge and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Stay current with the latest advancements, techniques, and evidence-based practices in gastroenterology and endoscopy nursing.
- Contribute to staff meetings and unit-based councils to discuss operational workflows and opportunities for improvement.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- IV Insertion & Phlebotomy: Proficiency in establishing and maintaining peripheral intravenous lines.
- Moderate Sedation Management: Deep understanding of sedative medications, reversal agents, and patient monitoring during sedation.
- Cardiac Monitoring: Ability to interpret EKG/ECG rhythms and respond to arrhythmias.
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS): Current certification and ability to lead or assist in resuscitation efforts.
- Basic Life Support (BLS): Current certification is mandatory.
- Endoscopic Procedure Knowledge: Familiarity with procedures like colonoscopy, EGD, and ERCP.
- Infection Control: Expertise in high-level disinfection and sterilization processes specific to endoscopic equipment.
- Electronic Health Record (EHR) Charting: Competency in documenting patient care accurately and efficiently in systems like Epic or Cerner.
Soft Skills
- Critical Thinking: Ability to rapidly assess complex situations, identify potential problems, and implement effective solutions under pressure.
- Patient Communication & Education: Excellent skills in explaining complex medical information clearly and compassionately to patients and families.
- Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work seamlessly and respectfully with physicians, technicians, and other staff in a fast-paced team setting.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to medication administration, patient monitoring, and documentation to ensure safety.
- Adaptability: Flexibility to handle changing schedules, unexpected emergencies, and varying patient needs.
- Problem-Solving: Proactive in identifying and resolving issues related to patient care, workflow, or equipment.
- Empathy and Compassion: Genuine concern for patient well-being and the ability to provide comfort and reassurance.
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
- Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) from an accredited institution.
- Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice.
Preferred Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Certification in Gastroenterology Nursing (CGRN).
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Nursing
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of acute care nursing experience (e.g., Med-Surg, Telemetry, Emergency Department).
Preferred: 1+ years of direct experience in an endoscopy lab, procedural setting (e.g., Cath Lab, IR), PACU, or critical care (ICU) environment is highly desirable.