Post Basic Diploma in Cardio Thoracic Nursing
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Last updated on 09 Jun 2025
Overview
The Post Basic Diploma in Cardio Thoracic Nursing, under the specialty of Cardiothoracic OT Nursing, is a specialized program designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of nurses working in the cardiothoracic surgical field. The duration of the program is typically 12 months, though it may vary depending on the institute offering the course. The curriculum covers advanced topics such as Cardiothoracic Surgical Procedures, Pre- and Post-operative Care, Advanced Monitoring, Emergency Response, etc.

Table of Content
What is a Post Basic Diploma in Cardio-Thoracic Nursing?
A Post Basic Diploma in Cardio-Thoracic Nursing is a post-basic nursing course that provides registered nurses with specialized knowledge and skills necessary to manage patients with cardiovascular and thoracic diseases. The course addresses several topics, such as cardiovascular diseases, surgery, and intensive care management.
Highlights
Particulars | Details |
Course Name | Post Basic Diploma in Cardio-Thoracic Nursing |
Course Type | Diploma |
Duration | 1 year |
Eligibility | GNM or B.Sc. Nursing with a valid nursing registration |
Admission Process | Entrance exams/interviews (if required), application to accredited colleges, payment of fees |
Fees | INR 50,000 - INR 2,00,000 |
Colleges in India | AIIMS, New Delhi Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal Amrita College of Nursing, Kochi |
Job Roles | Cardiac ICU Nurse, Cardiothoracic Surgical Nurse, Cath Lab Nurse, Cardiac Rehabilitation Nurse, Nurse Educator |
Eligibility
- Applicants must have completed General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) or B.Sc. Nursing.
- A valid nursing registration is a must.
- Candidates with work experience in cardiac or critical care units may be preferred by some institutions.
Duration
The Post Basic Diploma in Cardio-Thoracic Nursing is a one-year course, consisting of both theoretical studies and practical clinical training.
Fees
The fees for this program differ from institution to institution and range from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000.
Who Should Enroll in This Course?
- Graduate registered nurses aiming to specialize in cardiovascular and thoracic nursing.
- Practitioners eager to work in cardiac ICUs, cath labs, and operation theatres.
- Nurses searching for career promotion prospects in cardiac nursing.
Why Take Up This Course?
- Great scope for specialized nurses in cardiac and thoracic care.
- Prospects of job placement in premier hospitals and critical care units.
- Greater salary prospects than for general nursing positions.
- Enhanced patient care skills in cardiovascular and thoracic health.
Entrance Exams
Certain colleges ask applicants to clear entrance exams or interviews for admission. These can be:
- College-specific nursing entrance examinations
- Clinical knowledge tests via interviews
Admission Process
- Make sure you fulfill the eligibility criteria (GNM/B.Sc. Nursing with valid registration).
- Apply to accredited colleges or universities that provide the program.
- Complete entrance exams or interviews if required.
- Pay the required documents and fees to finalize registration.
Syllabus
The course of study usually consists of:
Year/Semester | Core Topics Covered |
Semester 1 | Fundamentals of Cardio-Thoracic Nursing – Understanding anatomy and physiology of the heart and lungs, essential nursing procedures, and patient assessment techniques. Cardiac & Thoracic Disorders – Study of common cardiovascular and thoracic diseases, their causes, symptoms, and basic management. Preoperative & Postoperative Nursing Care – Comprehensive training on patient preparation before surgery and post-surgical care protocols. Emergency & Critical Care Nursing – Introduction to emergency interventions, handling critical patients, and monitoring vital signs.
|
Semester 2 | Advanced Cardio-Thoracic Interventions – Training in surgical and non-surgical procedures, ICU protocols, and advanced patient care. Rehabilitation & Recovery in Cardiac Patients – Focus on post-surgical rehabilitation, lifestyle modifications, and long-term patient care. Pediatric & Geriatric Cardiac Nursing – Special considerations for heart-related conditions in children and elderly patients. Professional Ethics & Research in Cardiac Nursing – Understanding medical ethics, patient rights, and the latest research in cardiothoracic care. |
Top Colleges Providing This Course
- AIIMS, New Delhi
- Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
- Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai
- Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal
- Amrita College of Nursing, Kochi
Career Prospect
- Jobs in cardiac intensive care units, cath labs, and operation theaters.
- Opportunities in government and private hospitals, specialized cardiac centers.
- Teaching positions in nursing colleges and training institutes.
Further Study Options
- M.Sc. Nursing (Cardiovascular & Thoracic Nursing)
- Advanced Certification in Critical Care Nursing
- Fellowship in Cardiothoracic Nursing
Career Opportunities
- Cardiac ICU Nurse
- Cardiothoracic Surgical Nurse
- Cath Lab Nurse
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Nurse
- Cardio-Thoracic Nursing Nurse Educator
Salary
The graduates of this program can earn an average salary between INR 3 LPA to INR 6 LPA, based on experience and the health institution. With specialization and expertise, salaries can reach up to INR 10 LPA in the best hospitals.
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FAQS
Is this diploma course recognized?
Yes, it is recognized by many nursing councils and prestigious medical institutions in India.
What are the job opportunities following this course completion?
The candidates can apply as Cardiac ICU Nurses, Cath Lab Nurses, and Cardiothoracic Surgical Nurses.
Do I qualify to apply for this diploma after graduating in GNM?
Yes, GNM graduates with up-to-date registration are allowed to apply to this course.
How much is my maximum salary?
With specialization and experience, one can earn as much as INR 10 LPA in prominent healthcare organizations.
Is this course online?
No, because this course comprises practical clinical training, it is available offline only.
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