Cardiovascular technicians assist doctors in diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel conditions. They use various equipment and interact with patients, and may specialize in invasive or non-invasive methods. Training programs and certification are available, and technicians may work in hospitals or doctors’ offices.
Cardiovascular technicians work closely with physicians and must be comfortable interacting with patients facing life-threatening health issues. They work with a wide variety of equipment and must project an air of professionalism as they go about their jobs. A cardiovascular technician helps the doctor diagnose and treat medical conditions related to the heart and blood vessels.
He will schedule appointments, review patient files, perform ultrasounds on patients, perform cardiovascular procedures, monitor patients’ heart rates, and record and interpret data. Technicians specializing in invasive cardiology help physicians perform balloon angioplasties, cardiac catheterization procedures, and insert pacemakers and stents. The technician is usually responsible for using electrocardiograph (electrocardiograph) equipment to monitor patients.
Some technicians specialize in echocardiography and vascular technology. They are responsible for using non-invasive methods when helping doctors treat patients. Using technologies like ultrasound, they measure blood flow through arteries and veins, monitor a patient’s pulse, and even measure oxygen saturation.
While it is possible for a cardio technician to learn on the job, most technicians are trained through a program that lasts between two to four years. Some schools even offer a program that leads to a bachelor’s degree in that particular field. Typical courses often include invasive and non-invasive cardiovascular technology.
Students will also take classes related to non-invasive vascular technology. Courses in human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical electronics and other major subjects are required courses that the student must take. The program will also include clinical experiences with patients.
Cardiovascular technicians need to be certified in some states. They receive this certification from Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Other states do not require cardio technician certification, but many employers prefer to have their technicians certified by one of two organizations.
Standing, walking, carrying heavy objects, and lifting patients are all part of a cardiovascular technician’s job. Often, he or she may experience stressful work environments because of constant interaction with patients suffering from chronic heart conditions. Most technicians work in hospitals, but some work in doctors’ offices.
Cardiovascular technicians typically work five days a week. Sometimes they may need to work nights or weekends. They are usually required to wear a heavy lead apron to protect them from radiation exposure as they often work with x-ray equipment. They must also be prepared to work with blood and other potentially infectious substances.
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