Cardiovascular Technologist

About the role

Provides direct, safe, competent, and quality patient care in the Interventional Cardiology and Radiology department (also known as Cath Lab). Assists in the performance of various invasive cardiac, peripheral vascular, or interventional radiology diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Sustains a high level of patient care by communicating with patients, families, physicians, and co-workers to address physical, general, and psychosocial needs. Functions under the direction and immediate supervision of the cardiologist/radiologist performing the procedure. Approaches patients and families in a kind, gentle, and friendly manner, alleviating apprehension through effective pre- and post-procedure instructions.

Responsibilities

• Communicates positively with physicians, co-workers, and other hospital departments to manage and expedite safe and appropriate patient care.
• Maintains patient confidentiality at all times.
• Assists with confirmation that Pre-Op requirements are complete per hospital policy (H&P present, informed consent signed, appropriate test results available, access site identified and prepared).
• Functions as the scrub assistant to the cardiologist, using principles of sterile technique to aid in the technical performance of diagnostic and interventional procedures in the cath lab and at the bedside for emergent procedures.
• Assists the cardiologist during procedures by operating ancillary equipment, anticipating and obtaining catheters, wires, and other necessary inventory and medications as ordered.
• Demonstrates the ability to assess cardiopulmonary and cardiovascular systems pre-, intra-, and post-procedure, recognizing and evaluating hemodynamics, pressure waveforms, and EKG waveforms.
• Identifies and updates the cardiologist of any adverse physiologic changes during the procedure and takes appropriate actions in a timely manner.
• Demonstrates knowledge of cardiac, emergency, anxiolytic, analgesic, anticoagulation, antiplatelet, and thrombolytic drugs and IV fluids. Assists the MD with administration of medications at the table and proper documentation.
• Maintains hemostasis of a vessel post-procedure using compression devices, manual compression, or closure devices/products per competency demonstration. Recognizes potential problems associated with access sites and takes corrective actions if indicated.
• Ensures care and assessment of the patient are clearly documented. Assumes responsibility for the completeness, accuracy, and validity of the medical record.
• Adheres to sterile and aseptic techniques and practices in all procedures.
• Demonstrates competence in preparing and cleaning Cath Lab suites before and between cases.
• Verifies the operation of imaging equipment for all procedures and checks equipment integrity prior to use.
• Performs set-up and calibration of various equipment in the Cath Lab. Ensures equipment is properly maintained and reports malfunctions immediately.
• Assists in a circulating role by operating ancillary equipment and obtaining necessary inventory and medications as ordered.
• Collaborates with the Supply Chain department to restock supplies and notifies management of shortages.
• Assists with the maintenance of digital images, department logs, and other case information after a procedure.
• In the absence of the Manager, makes decisions to guarantee appropriate care and safety of the patient.
• Assists with Process Improvement and Quality Improvement activities as assigned. Recognizes occurrences and files appropriate forms with Risk Management.
• Attends required in-services, education, and unit meetings, maintaining an annual 75% attendance record.
• Maintains current BLS and ACLS certifications and assesses own learning needs to enhance personal and professional growth.
• Commits to scheduling flexibility, including voluntary time off during low-volume schedules and overtime during high-volume schedules. Takes call as scheduled and responds within the 30-minute response time.
• Maintains regulatory requirements and complies with all organization policies.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of an accredited program in applied or health science discipline (e.g., cardiovascular technology, radiological technology, respiratory therapy, paramedic emergency medicine, RN, or LPN).
• Minimum of one year of relevant acute care experience; cardiac Cath lab or critical care preferred.
• Current BLS certification.
• Current ACLS certification or certification within six months of employment.
• Current Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) or Registered Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist (RCES) preferred.
• Staff hired specifically for a scrub role will complete RCIS certification within 6 months of their start date (or within 1 year if no prior experience in invasive cardiovascular technology).