Cardiovascular Tech

Cardiac Catheterization Lab Technician

Under the general supervision of the Cath Lab Manager, performs a variety of technical and related duties in support of the activities of the lab. All essential functions performed in this position reflect the age specific needs of the patients. Brown University Health employees are expected to successfully role model the organization's values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence as these values guide our everyday actions with patients, customers and one another. In addition to our values, all employees are expected to demonstrate the core Success Factors which tell us how we work together and how we get things done. The core Success Factors include: Instill Trust and Value Differences Patient and Community Focus and Collaborate.

Responsibility includes assisting cardiologists during cardiac catheterizations, peripheral and Electrophysiology procedures, but not limited to; flushing and removing arterial and venous lines, drawing of arterial and venous blood samples. May be required to assist attending cardiologist and scrub in on procedure which may include passing of guide wire and injecting coronary arteries with contrast. Operates and maintains non-radiographic equipment. Provides post catheterization care including removal of sheaths, monitoring vital signs and peripheral circulation. Ensures that Examination Room is properly supplied, equipped, and operational before procedures. Selects, sets up, and operates angiographic and hemodynamic monitoring equipment necessary for catheterization laboratory procedures. Assists patient in assuming required position and assists instructing the patient regarding the procedure. Sets up sterile equipment and trays. Assists with sterile draping and procedures. Attached defibrillator monitor, and observes ECG rhythm. Operates image archival back-up system during procedures, and plays back images, as ordered, by physicians. Monitors right and left heart pressures and balance gauges for accuracy, hemodynamic wave forms and arterial blood pressure. Responsible for numerical interpretation of wave forms. Verbalizes changes to the physician and staff. Responsible for operating digital equipment, including digital image acquisition and processing and analysis of data, as well as reproducing images on a CD. Troubleshoots angiographic and hemodynamic equipment, and assists manager or designee in arranging for repairs and preventative maintenance. Completes records pertinent to procedures performed. Responsible for entering procedure charges and inventory in Lifechart (EPIC) for billing purposes. Maintains established hospital and department policies, procedures, and objectives, for quality assurance, safety, environmental and infection control.

Minimum qualifications include equivalent to Bachelor Degree, including Exercise physiology, or Radiologic Technology Training. Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) preferred. Certification in BLS and ACLS required within 3 months of hire or transfer into the position Must be able to recognize common cardiac arrhythmias within six months of employment. Demonstrated knowledge and skills necessary to provide care to patients throughout Brown University Health, with consideration of aging processes, human development stages, and cultural patterns in each step of the care process. One year Radiology, Exercise Physiology, or Cardiology experience. Cardiac Cath Lab or special procedures experience required.

Work environment and physical requirements include healthcare environment such as acute care hospitals, physicians' offices and ancillary healthcare enterprises. Works with medical equipment and has direct patient contact. Any potential hazards are minimized or nullified by adherence to established safety procedures and precautions including use of safety equipment and protective clothing.