The National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS) has unveiled a pioneering Graduate Certificate in Cardiac Interventional Radiology Nursing, marking a significant advancement in specialised nursing education. This 4.5-month programme, launched to coincide with Nurses’ Day, is designed to equip nurses with the necessary skills to address the rising demand for sophisticated cardiac care in Singapore, where cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death.
The curriculum, developed in collaboration with SingHealth’s College of Clinical Nursing, combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical training at NHCS’s Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory. This structured programme aims to transform traditional on-the-job training into a formal certification process, enhancing nurses’ expertise in complex cardiac procedures and emergency management.
Deputy CEO and Senior Consultant at NHCS, Aaron Wong, emphasised the programme’s importance: “Highly skilled nurses are integral to the success of each procedure. This graduate programme presents a major stride forward in professionalising and deepening the capabilities of our Cardiac Cath Lab nurses.”
The programme addresses a critical healthcare need, as cardiovascular disease claims nearly one-third of lives in Singapore. By providing comprehensive, structured training, the initiative aims to improve patient safety, clinical outcomes, and care delivery. Amy Tay, Chief Nurse at NHCS, highlighted the programme’s impact, stating, “Through investing in nurses’ professional development, we ensure patients receive the highest quality care.”
The first cohort includes nurses from NHCS, Singapore General Hospital, and KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, with plans to expand to other public healthcare institutions. This initiative is set to strengthen cardiovascular care across Singapore, ensuring nurses are well-prepared for both routine and emergency cardiac procedures.
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