Telemetry Nursing Career

Telemetry Nurses primarily monitor devices such as the Electrocardiogram, as well as data from additional devices that measure patient vitals. Telemetry nurse are usually found providing nursing care to patients with renal, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, heart failure, circulatory, diabetes and other acute diagnoses. Most often Telemetry nurses work in a hospital or clinical related facility.

Telemetry nurses monitor Electrocardiogram (ECG) machines, recording the patients condition. They observe the patient , assess the ECG data and record the patient’s symptoms and progress. Telemetry nurses will provide patient care based on their findings and prior physician orders through utilization of the nursing process. Telemetry nurses work autonomously to assist in developing and managing nursing care plans, counseling patients and their families as to the proper care of the patient upon discharge and also promote health and disease prevention. Telemetry nurses often provide case management services for their patients. Though the Telemetry nurse work autonomously, there is often a nurse manager or director overseeing the unit where the Telemetry nurse works. Telemetry nursing is faced paced and Telemetry nurses often find themselves participating in surgeries, treatment and exams, administering medications and assisting in the rehabilitation process.

Telemetry nurses most often receive their training while in a pre-licensure nursing program. During the clinical portion of their training it is common for students to spend time in Telemetry. Many telemetry nurses have gained their experience on the job. There are some certifications that Telemetry nurses will pursue, such as PCCN offered by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. This certification exam covers Telemetry as well as related areas of critical care nursing, like intermediate care, step-down and emergency department material. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is a common certification that Telemetry and other critical care related nurses hold. Case management training or certification is also a commonly held credential.

Telemetry nursing is a very good place to develop nursing skills and clinical experience. It is a fast paced and rewarding environment. For those nurses who want autonomy and wish to fine tune or develop their nursing skills, Telemetry is a good choice.

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