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