CONGRESS ABSTRACT

Introduction: Recent advances in cardiology have enabled the use of miniaturized implantable loop recorders (ILRs) for long term cardiac rhythm monitoring. Traditionally physician led, ILR implantation and follow up are increasingly performed by nurses within advanced practice models, improving efficiency and patient centered care. This scoping review aimed to map existing evidence on nurse led ILR management, identify required competencies, and summarize clinical and organizational outcomes. Methods: A scoping review, guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, was conducted through PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus to identify studies published between 2014 and 2024. Search terms included “implantable loop recorder” with “nurse led,” “nursing management,” and “advanced nursing competencies.” Eligible peer reviewed studies in English described nurse led ILR implantation or follow up with outcomes related to safety, workflow, or training. Data were extracted on study design, population, competencies, and outcomes, and were synthesized thematically. Results: Of 217 records screened, five met the inclusion criteria. All were single center, observational studies. Nurse led ILR programs showed safety and efficacy comparable to physician led models, with similar complication and therapy modification rates. Patients reported high satisfaction and lower post procedural discomfort. Organizational advantages included shorter waiting lists, higher procedural throughput, and cost savings. Core nursing skills comprised sterile technique, device implantation, programming, arrhythmia recognition, and patient communication. Studies emphasized the need for structured training, competency assessment, and formal certification for advanced practice nurses. The integration of digital monitoring and remote follow up emerged as a key enabler for efficiency and outcome optimization. Conclusions: Nurse led ILR implantation and follow up are feasible, safe, and beneficial for patients and healthcare systems. With structured training and adherence to protocols, nurses can achieve outcomes comparable to those of physicians while enhancing patient experience and organizational performance. Task shifting initiatives, such as nurse led ILR implantation outside the electrophysiology laboratory, highlight the expanding scope of advanced nursing practice and its positive impact on patient care and healthcare efficiency.