Overview
The Cath Lab Technician performs the technical aspects of diagnostic and interventional cardiovascular procedures under the supervision of the physician and in collaboration with cath lab staff.
Responsibilities
- Performs a variety of related digital image management tasks as necessary, i.e., exceptions, annotations; maintains competency by demonstrating a complete working knowledge of all imaging equipment and supplies, including but not limited to: angiographic suites, C-arm, ultrasound (for vascular access and for assisting with ultrasound procedures under the direction of the Cardiologist), thrombectomy devices, embolization devices, angioplasty balloons and vascular stents, vascular and non-vascular catheters and guidewires.
- Demonstrates proper positioning for routine and procedural exams.
Adjusts immobilization devices and equipment, with physician guidance as needed. - Maintains competency in the performance of high aseptic standards, including competency in scrub procedures and sterile techniques.
- Maintains competency in a variety of diagnostic and interventional cardiology examinations performed, appropriate set up, and possible supplies required for each.
- Directly assists the Interventional or Diagnostic Cardiologists by functioning in a scrub assistant role during catheter-based procedures.
- Appropriately labels patient position to reflect correct orientation of images.
- Adjusts technical factors in proportion to patient and body part being examined while minimizing radiation.
- Provides radiation protection to patient, family, staff and self according to prescribed safety standards.
- Reviews requests and written orders checking for special instructions from physicians and consults with physician as needed.
- Pleasantly greets patient, confirming their identity using two identifiers and introducing oneself; completely explains examination procedure to the patient and family, if present.
- Performs advanced modality examinations as assigned.
- Performs visual preventive safety inspections of all equipment used and communicates problems to supervisor/assistant director/director.
- Maintains necessary inventory of supplies, rotating stock in an orderly fashion and eliminating outdated items.
- Maintains orderliness and cleanliness of the department.
- Recognizes emergency situations and initiates code procedures as needed.
- Completes all aspects of a patient’s exam, including ensuring images are available for physician review on PACS in a timely manner, charging procedures and supplies, documenting contrast usage, and documenting history or additional PACS notes.
- Maintains current knowledge of CPT/HCPCS codes and appropriate coding of complex procedures.
- Protects patients and employees by adhering to current Infection Control and Safety Standards.
- Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending education workshops, reviewing professional publications, and/or participating in professional societies.
- Completes all mandatory educational requirements in a timely manner.
- Accepts and completes all duties positively and without conflict.
- Cooperates, helps others, and improves the performance of the unit.
- Adheres to the approved Standards of Performance.
- Communicates and uses appropriate customer relation skills with patients, families, and all members of the healthcare team.
- Abides by and enforces all compliance requirements and policies and performs these responsibilities in an ethical manner consistent with the organization’s values.
- Adheres to hospital and departmental policies including confidentiality’
- Utilizes proper body mechanics when moving, positioning and transferring patients without assistance or with assistance when needed for patient safety and when moving equipment/supplies that are necessary to perform essential functions.
- Demonstrates CPR according to American Heart Association standards.
- Assists with training radiology students.
- Participates on committees as assigned
- Participates in Performance Improvement and Quality Control activities as assigned.
- Completes all mandatory department, educational, and hospital requirements
- Adheres to current Infection Control and Safety Standards
- Regular and prompt attendance
- Ability to work schedule as defined and overtime as requires
- Related duties as assignes
Additional Information
Employees must be in a regular position, working 20 hours or more per week (.50 FTE or greater) to qualify for benefits.
Qualifications
- High School Diploma or equivalent and 2 years of cardiovascular experience Required OR
- Completion of a related allied health program and registration/certification with one of the following certifying boards within six months of employment: American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in Radiography Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) as a Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) or Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) Certified Surgical Technologist by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Required
- Advanced registry is highly Preferred
- BCLS – Basic Life Support within 180 Days Required
- ACLS – Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support within 180 Days Required
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
EO Employer – minorities/females/veterans/disabilities/sexual orientation/gender identity.