Cardiac Catheterization Radiology Technologist

Job Summary

The Cardiology Tech in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory performs tasks that provide technical support during invasive cardiovascular procedures while also providing basic patient care to all types of patients under the direction and supervision of the professional nurse. Cardiology Tech assists in maintaining order and cleanliness of the department.

Responsibilities

• General Patient Care (25%):
  • Follow established policies and procedures if providing direct patient care.
  • Initiate and plan for provision of patient comfort and hygiene measures.
  • Make frequent rounds on all patients noting condition, requests, and environment.
  • Perform EKG.
  • Assist with admission, discharge and transfer of patients.
  • Assist nurses and physicians with procedure.
  • Prepare rooms prior to and following cases.
  • Apply sterile drapes and prepare equipment prior to start of procedure.
  • Document an appropriate patient history containing pertinent patient information regarding their condition and including patient limitations into computerized Cath lab charting system under the RN's direction.
• Technical Support (25%):
  • Accurately connect patients to EKG monitors.
  • Establish arterial/venous line set-up prior to procedure.
  • Operate equipment necessary and demonstrate proficiency with: Hemodynamic monitor/recorder, Video/imaging system, Oximeters, Contrast injectors, Cardiac output units, Oxygen consumption monitors, Quantitative analysis software, Intravascular ultrasound units, Doppler blood flow velocity unit, Intra-aortic balloon pump, Fractional Flow Reserve, Bovine, Ablator, Impeller, Temporary Pacemaker.
  • Maintain supplies and equipment: ensure equipment/supplies are available and stored appropriately, empty full trash/soiled linen containers, notify appropriate department to maintain a clean and safe environment (housekeeping, maintenance, dietary, etc.).
• Catheter and Sheath Removal (10%):
  • Assess groin site and peripheral pulses.
  • Check vital signs prior to sheath removal.
  • Compress artery and/or vein for prescribed length of time.
  • Assess site after homeostasis is obtained.
  • Give patient instructions regarding post-procedural activity.
• Inventory/Supply Maintenance (5%):
  • Order supplies from Central Service as directed.
  • Send clean supplies for sterilization as needed.
  • Assist with inventory counting.
• Communication (5%):
  • Obtain patient care instructions from professional nurse and inform nurse of changes in patient's condition.
  • Document all procedures concisely and legibly on chart forms according to chart form guidelines.
  • Answer the telephone by identifying the unit and self in a courteous manner.
  • Direct prompt and courteous attention to the needs of patients, families, visitors, and physicians.
• Safety/Infection Control (5%):
  • Practice universal precautions and dispose of hazardous wastes per established guidelines.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, comfortable and therapeutic environment for patients/families/employees in accordance with hospital standards: maintain clutter free environment, keep conversations and background noise to a minimum, adhere to dress code.
  • Report risk management concerns.
  • Assume responsibility for completing all annual mandatory requirements as assigned.
  • Properly identify all patients by checking the patient armband (or using two unique identifiers in areas that do not utilize armbands, e.g., ask name, date of birth).
  • Clean procedure room between patients (mop floor, empty trash, etc.).
  • Work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.
• Service Standards (5%):
  • Demonstrate care and courtesy: provide prompt, respectful, and courteous service; meet physical, spiritual, psychological, and emotional needs of patients and families; demonstrate ability to relate to coworkers in a professional and respectful manner to assure and promote a culture of safety.
  • Communicate effectively and maintain confidentiality: listen to patient/family concerns and address needs; explain procedures and all education in a manner that patient and family understand; allow time for questions.
  • Demonstrate competence and collaboration: provide quality care in accordance to standards; assist with other departments to facilitate workflow and continuity; provide cost effective services; use resources wisely; recommend changes in practice that increase efficiency and minimize waste.
• Personal Accountability (5%):
  • Acknowledge authority, responding appropriately to supervisors' directions.
  • Participate in additional learning experience to increase competence, including: staff meetings, mandatory in-services and other educational programs.
  • Assume responsibility for completing all annual mandatory requirements.
  • Be at work as scheduled and begin duties promptly at start of shift.
  • Function as a resource person to co-workers, patients/families, medical staff, and ancillary personnel.
  • Identify problems, gather pertinent data, suggest solutions, communicate using appropriate lines of authority, and work toward problem resolution.
  • Ask for assistance when necessary and offer to willingly assist co-workers.
  • Demonstrate pride in physical appearance of the hospital, keeping all areas neat and clean.
  • Spend free time with patients and/or in another constructive manner.
  • Adhere to and incorporate all customer service standards in patient care and work practices.
• Performance Improvement (10%):
  • Assist in deploying unit-based PI plan.
  • Collect PI data as assigned.
  • Collaborate in developing and implementing action plans.
  • Participate in research activities on the nursing unit.
• Age-Appropriate Care (
  • Attend or complete annual age-specific in-service.
  • Perform age appropriate assessments which include input from family/guardian.
  • Include the family/guardian providing care in decision making as appropriate.
  • Determine immunization status, if warranted.
  • Appropriately refer or request consultations for special needs and/or equipment.