Job Description
Job Description
An Interventional Radiology (IR) nurse is a registered nurse who specializes in caring for patients undergoing minimally invasive, image-guided procedures performed by interventional radiologists.
Key Responsibilities
• Pre-procedure care
• Review patient history, labs, and allergies
• Educate patients and families about procedures
• Start IV lines and administer pre-medications
• Intra-procedure care
• Monitor vital signs, cardiac rhythm, and oxygenation
• Administer moderate sedation and pain medications per protocol
• Maintain sterile technique and assist the physician during procedures
• Recognize and respond to complications or emergencies
• Post-procedure care
• Monitor recovery and manage pain or sedation effects
• Assess puncture sites and manage bleeding
• Provide discharge instructions and patient education
• Coordinate follow-up care
Common Procedures Supported
• Angiography and angioplasty
• Stent placement
• Embolization procedures
• Venous access device placement (ports, PICC lines)
Skills and Knowledge
• Strong assessment and critical-thinking skills
• Expertise in conscious/moderate sedation
• Knowledge of radiation safety and sterile technique
• Ability to respond quickly in high-acuity situations
• Excellent communication and patient-advocacy skills
Work Environment
• Outpatient procedure centers
• On-call responsibilities are common for emergencies
Education & Certification
• Registered Nurse (RN) license
• ACLS and BLS certification
• Moderate sedation competency
Summary
Interventional radiology nurses play a critical role in ensuring patient safety, comfort, and optimal outcomes during complex, minimally invasive procedures by combining technical expertise with compassionate patient care.