Cardiovascular technologists are health professionals who work closely with physicians on providing diagnostic testing and treatment of conditions related to the heart and vascular system. These professionals may be trained to provide a multitude of tasks, from assisting in the cardiac operating room to educating patients about medical procedures. As the population ages and develops cardiac problems, the demand for cardiovascular technicians is expected to grow.
Specialties
Cardiovascular technologists can choose to specialize in several areas: ivasive cardiology, non-invasive cardiology, vascular cardiology and echocardiology. These specialties allow the cardiovascular technician to assist physicians with cardiac catherization, in which a catheter is inserted directly into the heart; monitor patients during heart procedures, such as pacemaker insertion; and perform ultrasound of the heart and vascular system. Training in multiple specialties is possible, and allows the cardiovascular technologist to perform additional duties. General duties of the technologist may include patient scheduling, performing EKGs, applying Holter monitors and conducting stress tests.
Education
Cardiovascular technology training programs vary in length between 24 months and four years. Two-year community college programs that offer an associate's degree are in the most demand, though four-year cardiovascular technology programs are becoming increasingly popular. Education and training includes both classroom instruction and patient-centered training in hospitals and other medical facilities for hands-on experience.
Licensure and Certification
Cardiovascular technicians may obtain certifications from the Cardiovascular Credentialing International and the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Certifications can be obtained for specialties, such as certified cardiographic technician, registered vascular specialist, registered cardiovascular invasive specialist and registered cardiac sonographers. Some states require cardiovascular technicians to become licensed by the state department of health, while others require certification only, or in addition to licensure.
Employment
Cardiovascular technicians work in hospitals, private cardiology offices, diagnostic imaging centers and clinics where cardiac services are provided. Working conditions typically include standing for long periods of time, can include heavy lifting, and may require night, holiday and weekend shifts in addition to a 40-hour workweek.
Career Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects this profession to grow 26 percent through 2016, as the aging population increases. Heart and vascular diseases will become more prevalent, driving demand for cardiac related services. Advances in cardiac medicine and imaging also are likely to increase the need for cardiovascular technicians trained in the new technology.
