Cardiovascular Technologist

Summary

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 communication with the patients, families, and physicians and co-works to address the physical, general and psychosocial needs of the patient. Functions under the direction and immediate supervision of the cardiologist/radiologist performing the procedure.

• Approaches the patient, and families, in a kind, gentle and friendly manner. Communicates in a positive manner and is able to alleviate apprehension through effective pre and post procedure instructions.
• Appropriate communication with physicians, co-workers and other hospital departments to manage and expedite safe and appropriate care of the patient.
• Maintains patient confidentiality at all times.
• Assist 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 the principles of sterile technique aids in the technical performance of diagnostic and interventional procedures in the cath lab, and at the bedside for emergent procedures as needed.
• Assists 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. Is able to recognize, evaluate and record hemodynamics, pressure wave forms and EKG wave forms. Identifies and updates the cardiologist of any adverse physiologic changes during the procedure and is prepared to take appropriate actions in a timely manner.
• Demonstrates knowledge of cardiac, emergency, anxiolytic, analgesic, anticoagulation, antiplatelet and thrombolytic drugs and IV fluids. Assist the MD with administration of medications at the table. Assists with proper documentation of administration of all medications.
• Maintains hemostasis of a vessel post procedure using a compression device, manual compression or closure devices/products per competency demonstration. Recognizes potential problems associated with access sites and takes appropriate corrective actions if indicated.
• Care and assessment of the patient is 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 of Cath Lab suites before and between cases.
• Verifies the operation of imaging equipment for all procedures and verifies the integrity of the equipment prior to the start of the procedure.
• Performs set-up and calibration of various equipment in the Cath lab. Ensures equipment is properly maintained. Alerts the manager /or the Biomed department of any equipment malfunction immediately and fills out appropriate work orders.
• Assists the cardiologist during procedures by operating ancillary equipment, anticipating and obtaining catheters wires and other necessary inventory and medications as ordered, when assisting in a circulating role.
• Assists and collaborates with the Supply Chain department in the restocking of supplies and assists in notifying the Manager or responsible personnel of shortages.
• Assists with the appropriate maintenance of digital images, department logs and other case information after a procedure.
• In the absence of the Manager, demonstrates the ability to make decisions to guarantee the appropriate care and safety of the patient.
• Assists with Process Improvement and Quality Improvement activities as assigned. Recognizes occurrences and files the appropriate forms with Risk Management.
• Attends required in-services, education and unit meetings. Maintains an annual 75% attendance record.
• Maintains current BLS and ACLS certifications.
• Takes responsibility to assess own learning needs to enhance personal and professional growth.
• Overall commitment to scheduling flexibility, including voluntary time off during low volume schedules and overtime during high volume schedules. Takes Call, as scheduled, and consistently 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 (including but not limited to - 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)