Cardiac/Blood/Resp Career Cardiovascular technologists

Cardiac/Blood/Resp Career Cardiovascular Technologists 

What is a cardiovascular technologists?

Cardiovascular technicians use a variety of procedures and instruments to diagnose and treat heart disease and vascular problems. Entry-level technicians perform electrocardiograms (EKGs), and may set up stress tests and Holter monitoring. With experience and additional training, a technician can perform more diagnostic tasks, using sonography and other types of non-invasive procedures as well as advanced life support techniques. Most positions for cardiovascular technicians are found in hospitals and require a 40+ hour work week that could include evenings, weekends and holidays. Techs spend long hours walking or standing, and may be required to move heavy equipment or assist in moving patients.

What tools do they use?

Tools used in this occupation  

 Cardiac output CO monitoring units or accessories — Hemodynamic monitors; Physiological monitoring and analysis systems; Thermodilution cardiac output computers

Cardiac pacemaker generator or cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemaker CRT-P — Pacemaker analyzers; Pacemakers; Silicone lead end caps; Ventricular demand pacemakers



Diagnostic or interventional vascular catheters or sets — Angiojets; Grollmann catheters; Rheolytic thrombectomy systems; Rotoblators

Medical picture archiving computer systems PACS — Image capturing and transmission systems; Image storage systems; Scan converters

Vascular filter — Bird's nest inferior vena caval filters; Caval filters; Distal embolic protection devices; Vena caval filters

Technology used in this occupation:

Data base user interface and query software — Database software; Structured data entry software

Information retrieval or search software — Information systems integration software

Internet browser software — Web browser software

Inventory management software — Cardinal Health Pyxis CII Safe

Medical software — Digital Imaging Communications in Medicine DICOM-compatible image acquisition and integration software products; Electronic medical record EMR software; Practice management software PMS; Smart Digital Holter Monitor

How do you become this job occupation?

Education Requirements

Most cardiovascular technicians earn associate's degrees from accredited programs at colleges, vocational schools or universities, though bachelor's degrees are increasingly available and popular. One year of study is typically devoted to core classes in anatomy, ethics and instrumentation, with the following year focused on hands-on instruction. Continuing education and on-the-job training keep professionals abreast of new procedures after formal courses are complete.

Licensure and Certification Requirements

Cardiovascular technicians can seek certification from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) and Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). Some states also require licensure to practice, and so those interested in a cardiovascular career should consult their state's medical board to determine requirements.

Required Skills

A cardiovascular technician needs the ability to communicate technical information clearly to patients of all ages. Techs also must be patient and understanding to be able to calm patients who will be undergoing potentially uncomfortable and intimidating procedures.

Work conditions

Technologists and technicians generally work a five-day, 40-hour week that may include weekends. Those in catheterization labs tend to work longer hours and may work evenings. They also may be on call during the night and on weekends.

Salary range

Cardiovascular technicians who specialize in electrocardiograms (EKGs), stress testing and Holter monitors are known as cardiographic or EKG technicians. Typically, cardiovascular technologists earn an average salary of $48,984 per year according to a study conducted by the Alliance of Cardiovascular Professionals. Technicians averaged $29,270 per year.