Cardiac Catheterization Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advanced healthcare, the focus on Cardiac Catheterization Technicians is more crucial than ever.

As medical technology evolves, the need for proficient individuals who can adeptly perform and interpret cardiac catheterization procedures is continually growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Cardiac Catheterization Technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect job specification,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of cardiac catheterization,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Cardiac Catheterization Technician job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Cardiac Catheterization Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Cardiac Catheterization Technicians play a critical role in assisting doctors with diagnosing and treating heart conditions using catheterization procedures.

These professionals are responsible for preparing and maintaining catheterization equipment and providing direct patient care.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Preparation and operation of advanced imaging and catheterization equipment
• Assisting physicians during catheterization procedures, such as angioplasty or stent placements
• Administering medication under the supervision of a physician or nurse
• Monitoring patient’s vital signs during procedures
• Collecting and recording patient data, including medical history and procedure results
• Ensuring a sterile environment in the catheterization lab
• Performing checks and maintenance on catheterization equipment
• Assisting in patient recovery and post-procedure care
• Continuing education to stay abreast of advancements in cardiac catheterization techniques and technologies

 

Cardiac Catheterization Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and skilled Cardiac Catheterization Technician to join our healthcare team.

In this role, you will be responsible for assisting physicians during cardiac catheterization procedures, operating catheterization laboratory equipment, and providing patient care.

Our ideal candidate has experience in a catheterization lab and is familiar with cardiac diagnostic and interventional procedures.

Proficiency in operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, and the ability to interpret EKG readings is also important.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist physicians during cardiac catheterization procedures.
• Operate and maintain cardiac catheterization laboratory equipment.
• Prepare patients for catheterization procedures.
• Monitor patient’s condition and vital signs during procedures.
• Administer medication as directed by the physician.
• Document and report procedure findings.
• Ensure proper sterilization and storage of catheterization equipment.
• Participate in on-call duties as required.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures.

 

Qualifications

• Completion of a formal Cardiac Catheterization program.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification.
• Proven experience as a Cardiac Catheterization Technician.
• Ability to operate and maintain catheterization laboratory equipment.
• Excellent patient care skills.
• Good understanding of cardiac catheterization procedures and terminology.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cardiac Catheterization Technician
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinic setting. This job may require standing for long periods and lifting heavy equipment.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and any relevant certifications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cardiac Catheterization Technician Do?

Cardiac Catheterization Technicians, also known as Cardiovascular Technologists, are specialized health care professionals who work closely with cardiologists and other medical staff in cardiac labs.

They play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating heart diseases and conditions.

They assist in invasive procedures like cardiac catheterizations, where a small tube (catheter) is inserted into a patient’s artery to examine the heart’s condition.

These technicians prepare patients for procedures by explaining the process, answering questions, and ensuring patient comfort.

They are responsible for setting up and maintaining medical equipment used during catheterization procedures, such as EKG machines, pressure monitors, and imaging devices.

During the procedure, Cardiac Catheterization Technicians monitor patients’ heart rate and blood pressure, alerting the medical team to any abnormalities.

They also assist in the insertion of the catheter, the administration of contrast media, and take part in the analysis and interpretation of the images produced.

After the procedure, these technicians are often involved in patient follow-up care, providing information on post-procedure care and monitoring patient recovery.

Cardiac Catheterization Technicians may also assist in other procedures such as pacemaker implantation, angioplasty, and stent placements.

 

Cardiac Catheterization Technician Qualifications and Skills

A competent Cardiac Catheterization Technician should have the skills and qualifications that align with this job role, such as:

• Technical skills and understanding of the catheterization procedure, including equipment operation, patient preparation, and post-procedure care.
• Proficiency in EKG interpretation and understanding of cardiovascular anatomy and physiology.
• Detail-oriented and observant, able to notice changes in patient condition during procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and the healthcare team.
• Problem-solving skills to effectively deal with emergency situations or unexpected patient responses.
• Physical abilities that allow them to stand for prolonged periods and assist in patient positioning and movement.
• Knowledge of medical safety standards and regulations to ensure patient safety during procedures.
• Ability to work in high-stress environments and make critical decisions under pressure.
• Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to handle delicate and intricate medical tools and equipment.

 

Cardiac Catheterization Technician Experience Requirements

Entry-level Cardiac Catheterization Technicians generally need to have completed an associate degree in cardiovascular technology, which includes hands-on training in a clinical setting.

This equips them with basic practical experience to perform catheterization procedures, equipment maintenance, and patient care.

Often, these technicians also gain experience through internships or trainee roles at hospitals or healthcare facilities.

They may start in a more general cardiovascular technician role and then specialize in cardiac catheterization.

Candidates with about 2 to 3 years of experience working in the cardiac cath lab are more likely to have advanced technical skills and a deeper understanding of cardiac catheterization procedures.

They are likely capable of handling more complex cases and may also be involved in teaching or mentoring newer technicians.

For those with more than 5 years of experience, they may have developed supervisory or managerial skills and are able to oversee the operation of the cardiac cath lab.

At this level, technicians may also be involved in research or the implementation of new cardiac catheterization techniques and technologies.

In addition, some positions might require technicians to hold specific certifications, such as the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) certification, which further validates their experience and expertise.

 

Cardiac Catheterization Technician Education and Training Requirements

Cardiac Catheterization Technicians, also known as Cardiovascular Technologists or Technicians, typically need an associate’s degree in cardiovascular technology.

This program teaches students about the anatomy of the heart, medical terminology, and the use of the different types of diagnostic imaging equipment used in a catheterization lab.

In addition to the degree, many employers prefer candidates who are certified.

Certification can be obtained from organizations such as the Cardiovascular Credentialing International or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

To qualify for certification, candidates must have completed an accredited cardiovascular technology program and pass an exam.

Certified Cardiac Catheterization Technicians must complete continuing education to maintain their certification.

Some positions may require experience in the field, which can be obtained through internships or entry-level positions.

Additional skills that are beneficial for a Cardiac Catheterization Technician include detail orientation, physical stamina, and technical skills to operate complex machinery.

Cardiac Catheterization Technicians must also have BLS (Basic Life Support) and ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certifications as they may need to respond to emergency situations.

Continuing education and staying updated with the latest advancements in cardiac technology is also important in this field.

 

Cardiac Catheterization Technician Salary Expectations

A Cardiac Catheterization Technician earns an average salary of $56,570 (USD) per year.

The actual income can fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience, certifications, geographical location, and the institution they work for.

 

Cardiac Catheterization Technician Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Cardiac Catheterization Technician need?

Cardiac Catheterization Technicians typically need a diploma or associate’s degree in Cardiovascular Technology or a similar field.

They must also have certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).

Additionally, many employers require certification from Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

 

What skills are essential for a Cardiac Catheterization Technician?

Cardiac Catheterization Technicians should have strong technical skills, as they will need to operate complex medical equipment and assist with intricate procedures.

They should also have excellent hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure.

Interpersonal and communication skills are also essential, as technicians need to interact with patients, families, and medical staff.

 

What are the typical duties of a Cardiac Catheterization Technician?

A Cardiac Catheterization Technician’s duties typically include preparing patients for catheterization procedures, assisting doctors during these procedures, monitoring patients’ vital signs, and maintaining and operating the equipment used in the cath lab.

They may also need to educate patients and their families about the procedure and post-procedure care.

 

What qualities make a good Cardiac Catheterization Technician?

A good Cardiac Catheterization Technician is patient, empathetic, and able to communicate clearly with patients, families, and medical staff.

They must also be detail-oriented and have excellent problem-solving skills, as they need to respond quickly and effectively to any complications that may arise during a procedure.

In addition, they should have a strong understanding of cardiac anatomy and the principles of cardiovascular technology.

 

Is experience important for a Cardiac Catheterization Technician?

Yes, experience is very important in this role.

Hands-on experience in a clinical setting allows Cardiac Catheterization Technicians to gain the skills they need to handle emergency situations and use complex medical equipment.

Some employers may also prefer candidates with experience in specific areas, such as pediatric cardiology or interventional radiology.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricate world of a Cardiac Catheterization Technician.

Surprised?

It’s not just about assisting in medical procedures.

It’s about mapping the path to heart health, one catheterization at a time.

With our comprehensive Cardiac Catheterization Technician job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make your move.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating accurate job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every heart procedure is a step towards saving a life.

Let’s navigate that path. Together.

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