An invasive cardiovascular technologist is an individual who performs invasive procedures in hospitals. These professionals may also work in medical sales or educational cardiology training. In this article, you will learn about the Occupational Outlook and Education requirements for this field. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, there are several programs available in the United States.
Occupational outlook for invasive cardiovascular technologists
Cardiovascular technologists can work in many different areas, including the field of cardiac and pulmonary diagnostic imaging. Their job duties include conducting tests to assess a patient’s heart rate and oxygen levels, lung capacity, and electrocardiograms. They may also assist physicians in performing similar tests.
The demand for cardiovascular technologists is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the occupation is expected to create nearly 15,700 new jobs by 2022. However, that number is much lower than the expected growth for all occupations during the same period.
Those with advanced training may enjoy a higher salary. As a result, most people who become cardiovascular technologists are employed by hospitals. In 2013, 75% of cardiovascular technologists worked in general medical and surgical hospitals. About 15 percent worked in private physician’s offices. This percentage is expected to grow over the next decade. The remainder of these technologists work in medical and diagnostic laboratories and outpatient care centers.
Cardiovascular invasive specialists perform a wide range of duties on a daily basis. They work closely with various members of the health care team. They also work with patients of all ages who suffer from heart conditions and complications. Noninvasive cardiology technologists perform electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, and stress tests. They also work with noninvasive ultrasound equipment.
Cardiovascular technologists must have the ability to follow detailed instructions. Echocardiography, noninvasive provocative testing, and invasive procedures require a high attention to detail. Cardiovascular technologists also have good bedside manner. Fortunately, their profession is growing in popularity. The average pay range is $27,000 per year.
Cardiovascular technologists perform electrocardiograms to diagnose heart and blood vessel diseases. These tests measure the heart’s performance at rest and during physical activity. The technicians also perform stress tests involving patients walking a treadmill. Some cardiopulmonary technologists use cardiac ultrasound to measure a patient’s breathing. This information can help physicians diagnose pulmonary problems. They also help physicians diagnose and treat patients with heart disease.
The median annual salary for cardiovascular technologists was $63,570 in 2008. The top 10% of cardio techs earned over $136,000 a year in 2008. Depending on location and experience, the salary of cardiovascular technologists may vary widely. However, the BLS estimates a 24% job growth over the next decade. This is due to a growing aging population and an increasing number of heart and vascular diseases. Furthermore, new technology and innovations in medicine mean that vascular disease can be detected earlier and more often than before.
Education requirements for invasive cardiovascular technologists
Those interested in becoming invasive cardiovascular technologists must complete an associate degree in a related field and a year’s worth of experience working in a cardiac catheterization lab. They must also complete continuing education requirements and obtain industry certifications. In addition, they must maintain knowledge of current heart procedures and advanced cardiac life support. They must also be able to analyze health information quickly and identify abnormal ECG rhythms.
Education requirements for invasive cardiovascular technologists vary between programs, but most require a high school diploma or a general equivalency certificate. Classes in mathematics, anatomy, physics, chemistry, biology, and computers are often helpful for future technicians. Although post-secondary education is often required, some employers will hire graduates with only an associate’s degree or certificate.
Invasive cardiovascular technologists work alongside cardiologists, cardiovascular nurses, and other highly skilled healthcare professionals, performing a variety of tests and procedures on patients. Invasive cardiology includes advanced techniques and sophisticated equipment, which requires highly specialized training. Invasive cardiology involves evaluating cardiac valve disease and coronary artery disease. They also analyze the heart’s electrical conduction system.
Invasive cardiovascular technologists usually work as assistants to physicians who perform more invasive procedures. They work with a wide variety of medical equipment. In addition to an associate degree, invasive cardiology technologists must also pursue additional certifications to improve their job prospects. They must be trained to perform procedures in a hospital setting.
The School of Invasive Cardiovascular Technology offers a one-year full-time certificate program. Upon completion, graduates will be able to assist in cath lab procedures. In the curriculum, students will learn about basic cardiovascular functions, and then concentrate on the clinical courses that are necessary for working professionals. The program is offered in collaboration with affiliated hospitals and teaches essential skills needed for the field.
Invasive cardiology technologists assist physicians in procedures to diagnose and treat heart disease. They help in cardiac catheterizations, including the insertion and removal of catheters. They also monitor patient vital signs and alert the physician if anything is abnormal. These technologists also work with surgeons during open- heart surgeries.
