Cardiovascular technologist

Cardiovascular Technologist

A cardiovascular technologist is a healthcare professional who assists physicians in diagnosing and treating cardiac (heart) and peripheral vascular (blood vessel) ailments. Cardiovascular technologists use imaging technology to help physicians detect blockages that may lead to heart disease or stroke.

Roles and Responsibilities

Cardiovascular technologists perform various roles in a medical setting. They may assist physicians in performing cardiac catheterization, a procedure that can determine if a blockage exists in the blood vessels that supply the heart. They also may perform echocardiograms, which use sound waves to create images of the heart, or electrocardiograms, which record the electrical activity of the heart.

In addition to these diagnostic procedures, cardiovascular technologists may also assist with patient care before and after surgery and during recovery from heart-related conditions. They may monitor patients' heart rates and perform stress tests to measure the heart's performance under exertion.

Education and Training

Becoming a cardiovascular technologist typically requires a two-year associate degree in cardiovascular technology, although some technologists may choose to pursue a four-year bachelor's degree. Coursework typically includes anatomy, physiology, and specific classes on the use of diagnostic equipment.

After completing their education, cardiovascular technologists typically need to become certified. Certification can be obtained through organizations such as the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).

Employment and Outlook

Cardiovascular technologists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient centers, and physicians' offices. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of cardiovascular technologists is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations, driven by the aging population and the associated increase in cardiovascular disease.

See Also

• Cardiology
• Medical imaging
• Healthcare professional