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.