Elevating Cardiac Care at Vancouver General Hospital's Cath Lab

Leo joined Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) eight years ago after graduating from McGill University. He started at UBC Hospital in the short-stay unit and then high acuity before joining the cardiac cath lab team at VGH. 

Leo describes the cardiac cath lab as an engaging workplace, blending outpatient and inpatient care within a procedural setting. "We are a procedural area with a mix of outpatients and inpatients," he explains. "It's like a mix of ER (emergency room), OR (operating room), IR (interventional radiology), and PACU (post-anesthesia care unit) focused specifically on cardiac." He goes on to share, "We get to see an immediate change in someone who came in with 10/10 chest pain and leave pain-free after having a stent inserted," he says.

Leo's journey in his nursing career was propelled by VCH's sponsored training for registered nurses. With education costs fully covered and additional financial assistance for books and wages during training, nurses like Leo can focus on their professional growth. Upon successful completion, they seamlessly transition into specialized roles within the organization. Leo enrolled in the high acuity and critical care training programs at BCIT, both of which were instrumental in paving his path to his current role.

Leo emphasizes that the cardiac field is a constantly evolving industry, with new technologies emerging daily. He mentions the invaluable support from industry representatives, who not only assist during procedures but also educate the team on the latest EP ablation catheters, stents, and wires. "Every Thursday, we have one hour in the morning dedicated to education," he says. "Topics include case reviews, financial planning, mental wellness, nutrition, physio and body mechanics, and many more!"

Leo highlights the renowned expertise of the doctors in their respective specialties and the team's active involvement in ground-breaking research studies. He underscores his commitment to continuous learning, ensuring he stays abreast of the latest guidelines and technological advancements in the field.

Leo stresses the importance of fostering a respectful yet enjoyable environment for both staff and patients. The team's goal is to ensure patients leave feeling better and happier than when they arrived.

The cardiac cath lab team operates on rotating 10-hour shifts starting at 0700, 0800, and 1000, with the possibility of on-call duty. "We have nights, weekends, and statutory holidays off so work-life balance is great!" says Leo. "There is also the opportunity to pick up additional overtime via on-call."

What truly drives Leo is witnessing the profound, positive impact the team's work has on patients' lives. "Working with knowledgeable and friendly team members who make you feel supported even during stressful situations makes every day enjoyable."

Leo tells us about some cool perks to keep the spirits high. Every Friday, the thoughtful doctors treat them to sandwiches, giving us a tasty start to the weekend. Plus, they make sure to celebrate birthdays each month, adding some extra joy to the mix. "We also have a departmental urban rec sports team!" he says. "We keep things lively with unit socials either after work or lunch events such as “cereal day” and “bake-offs”.

The team in the cardiac cath lab includes registered nurses, MRTs (medical radiation technologists), EP (electrophysiology) technologists, interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, cardiac anesthesiologists, patient care aides, and diligent housekeeping staff all collaborating to deliver exceptional patient care. "It takes an entire multidisciplinary team to accomplish all our procedures,” says Leo.

We have exciting opportunities for RNs to join the cardiac cath lab team.

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