Cardiac Cath Lab Technologist

Job Description

A Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab) Technologist, also known as a Cardiovascular Technologist or Cath Lab Tech, is a healthcare professional responsible for assisting in various cardiac and vascular procedures.

Their primary focus is on diagnostic and interventional procedures to diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions.

Here are some of the key duties of a Cardiac Cath Lab Technologist:

Patient Preparation:

Cath Lab Techs prepare patients for cardiac catheterization procedures, explaining the process and answering their questions.

They also ensure that patients are comfortable and positioned correctly on the procedure table.

Equipment Setup: They are responsible for setting up and calibrating the necessary equipment and instrumentation in the Cath Lab.

This includes X-ray machines, fluoroscopy equipment, EKG machines, and various other monitoring devices.

Assisting the Cardiologist:

During procedures, Cath Lab Techs assist the interventional cardiologist or radiologist.

They hand over instruments, guide catheters, and provide contrast media as required.

They also monitor patients' vital signs and administer medications if necessary.

Radiation Safety:

Cath Lab Techs are trained in radiation safety and take precautions to minimize radiation exposure to both themselves and the patient.

This includes wearing protective lead aprons and ensuring the use of radiation shielding when appropriate.

Record Keeping:

They maintain detailed records of the procedure, including the patient's medical history, the procedure performed, medications administered, and any complications or adverse reactions.

Patient Care: After the procedure, Cath Lab Techs continue to monitor the patient's condition.

They provide post-procedure care and ensure that patients are stable before they leave the Cath Lab.

Equipment Maintenance:

Cath Lab Techs are responsible for cleaning and maintaining the Cath Lab equipment.

They report any equipment malfunctions or issues to the appropriate department for repair.

Teamwork:

They work closely with a multidisciplinary team, which can include nurses, radiologic technologists, and the cardiologist or radiologist.

Effective communication and teamwork are essential.

Quality Assurance:

They assist in quality control and quality assurance processes within the Cath Lab to ensure that the lab meets regulatory and safety standards.

Education and Training:

Staying updated with the latest technologies, procedures, and best practices in the field is important for Cath Lab Techs.

They may also be involved in training and mentoring new technologists.

Cath Lab Technologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating cardiovascular conditions.

They need to be well-trained, detail-oriented, and able to work under pressure while maintaining a high level of patient care and safety.

Their work helps to improve the outcomes of patients with heart and vascular problems.

Certification: Advanced Cardiac Life Support , Basic Life Support