What Is a Cath Lab Technologist and How to Become One
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What Is a Cath Lab Technologist?
Cath lab technologists assist cardiac physicians during cardiovascular procedures, such as open-heart surgery, angioplasty, and insertion of pacemakers and stents. As a cath lab technologist, performing cardiac catheterization--threading a catheter through the patient’s heart to detect blockages--is one of your primary responsibilities. Other responsibilities include evaluating test results for abnormalities, monitoring the patient’s heart rate and other vitals during procedures, and maintaining equipment. Cath lab technologists work in hospitals, health care clinics, and physicians offices, and may also help with appointment scheduling and general patient care.
How to Become a Cath Lab Technologist
To become a cath lab technologist, you need an associate degree in cardiovascular technology, applied science, or a related field. You must be detail-oriented with excellent communication skills, and you need the physical ability to stand for long periods of time and move machinery and equipment. Once you have at least two years of experience, you can earn additional qualifications, such as certification through organizations like Cardiac Credentialing International (CCI), which offers the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist designation.
