The Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgical Nurse Navigator serves as a dedicated clinical resource and advocate for patients and families navigating the complexities of pediatric cardiovascular surgery. This role combines expert clinical knowledge, patient education, care coordination, and emotional support to ensure seamless care throughout the surgical journey, from diagnosis through post-operative recovery and follow-up.
This role collaborates with the physicians, other healthcare team members, and the patient/family to maintain a plan to deliver high quality healthcare throughout the healthcare process.
Position Responsibilities
Patient Care Coordination
Serve as the primary point of contact for patients and families, facilitating communication between families, surgeons, physicians, and the interdisciplinary care team
Coordinate pre-operative and post-operative care, ensuring patients and families understand the surgical process, expected outcomes, and necessary follow-up care
Collaborate with scheduling teams to organize diagnostic tests, consultations, and surgical appointments. Patient and Family Education
Provide individualized education tailored to the patient's age, developmental stage, and family needs
Develop and deliver educational materials regarding pediatric cardiovascular conditions, surgical interventions, and recovery protocols
Ensure families are informed about signs and symptoms requiring urgent attention and how to access resources. Emotional Support and Advocacy
Offer emotional support to families, addressing concerns and anxieties related to surgical procedures and recovery
Advocate for patient and family needs, ensuring their voices are heard in the planning and delivery of care
Collaborate with social work, chaplaincy, and other supportive services as needed. Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Work closely with pediatric cardiovascular surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists, nurses, and allied health professionals to develop and implement individualized care plans
Participate in case reviews, quality improvement initiatives, and team meetings to enhance patient outcomes
Serve as a liaison between the hospital and community resources to facilitate continuity of care
Position Requirements
BSN required
Current unrestricted Delaware RN License or applicable Multistate RN License required
An American Heart Association BLS and PALS required upon hire
Minimum of 3 years nursing experience, with at least 2 years in pediatric cardiovascular care or surgical nursing required .
Experience in patient navigation, case management, or care coordination is desirable