CV Tech

Cardiac Cath Lab Technician

The Cardiology Tech in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory performs tasks that provide technical support during invasive cardiovascular procedures while also providing basic patient care to all types of patients under the direction and supervision of the professional nurse. Cardiology Tech assists in maintaining order and cleanliness of the department.

Completion of Radiology program and ARRT-R or RCIS/CCI credential as a Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist. Cath Lab cross training can be provided.

Job Summary:

The Cardiology Tech in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory performs tasks that provide technical support during invasive cardiovascular procedures while also providing basic patient care to all types of patients under the direction and supervision of the professional nurse. Cardiology Tech assists in maintaining order and cleanliness of the department.

Job Responsibilities and Requirements:

POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES AND PERFORMANCE CRITERIA (Percent of Time)

Essential Functions: The following are essential job accountabilities and performance criteria:

1. General Patient Care: Performs general patient care as it relates to the patients physical needs under the direction of the RN. (1, 3, 5, 6) 25%

Criteria

A. Follows established policies and procedures if providing direct patient care.

B. Initiates and plans for provision of patient comfort and hygiene measures.

C. Makes frequent rounds on all patients noting condition, requests, and environment.

D. Performs EKG.

E. Assist with admission, discharge and transfer of patients.

F. Assists nurses and physicians with procedure.

G. Prepares rooms prior to and following cases.

H. Applies sterile drapes and prepares equipment prior to start of procedure.

I) Documents an appropriate patient history containing pertinent patient information regarding their condition and including patient limitations into computerized Cath lab charting system under the RNs direction.

2. Technical Support: Performs technical support during catheterization procedure. Circulates in the procedure rooms, scrub assist during procedure. Initiates appropriate action in regard to supplies and equipment. (1, 3, 5, 6, 8) 25%

Criteria

A. Accurately connects patients to EKG monitors.

B. Establishes arterial/venous line set-up prior to procedure.

C. Operates equipment necessary and demonstrates proficiency.

• Hemodynamic monitor/recorder
• Video/imaging system
• Oximeters
• Contrast injectors
• Cardiac output units
• Oxygen consumption monitors
• Quantitative analysis software
• Intravascular ultrasound units
• Doppler blood flow velocity unit
• Intra-aortic balloon pump
• Fractional Flow Reserve
• Bovine
• Ablator
• Impeller
• Temporary Pacemaker

D. Maintains supplies and equipment.

• Ensures equipment/supplies are available and stored appropriately
• Empties full trash/soiled linen containers
• Notifies appropriate department to maintain a clean and safe environment (housekeeping, maintenance, dietary, etc.)

3. Performs catheter and sheath removal after invasive procedures. (1, 3, 5, 6, 8) 10%

Criteria

A. Assesses groin site and peripheral pulses.

B. Checks vital signs prior to sheath removal.

C. Compresses artery and/or vein for prescribed length of time.

D. Assesses site after homeostasis is obtained.

E. Gives patient instructions regarding post-procedural activity.

4. Assists Operations Coordinator as needed on inventory/supply maintenance. (2, 6) 5%

Criteria

A. Order supplies from Central Service as directed.

B. Sends clean supplies for sterilization as needed.

C. Assists with inventory counting.

5. Communication: Communicates effectively on behalf of patients and/or unit concerns to the appropriate people. (5, 6) 5%

Criteria

A. Obtains patient care instructions from professional nurse and informs nurse of changes in patients condition.

B. Documents all procedures concisely and legibly on chart forms according to chart form guidelines.

C. Answers the telephone by identifying the unit and self in a courteous manner.

D. Directs prompt and courteous attention to the needs of patients, families, visitors, and physicians.

6. Safety/Infection Control: Practices according to safety and infection control policies. (1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8) 5%

Criteria

A. Practices universal precautions and disposes of hazardous wastes per established guidelines.

B. Maintains a safe, clean, comfortable and therapeutic environment for patients/families/employees in accordance with hospital standards.

1. Maintains clutter free environment.

2. Keeps conversations and background noise to a minimum.

3. Adheres to dress code.

C. Reports risk management concerns.

D. Assumes responsibility for completing all annual mandatory requirements as assigned by SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital.

E. All patients are to be properly identified by checking the patient armband. In areas that do not utilize armbands, two unique identifiers should be used to verify identification of the patient. Example: ask name, date of birth, etc.

F. Cleans procedure room between patients (mops floor, empties trash, etc.).

G. Works in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.

7. Communication: Communicates effectively on behalf of patients and/or unit concerns to the appropriate persons. 5%

Criteria

A. Obtains reports from professional nurse and informs nurse of changes in patients condition.

B. Documents all procedures concisely and legibly on chart forms according to chart form guidelines.

C. Answers the telephone by identifying the unit and self in courteous manner.

D. Directs prompt and courteous attention to the needs of patients, families, visitors and physicians.

8. Service Standards: Provides service excellence to the customers of Saint Louis University Hospital by delivering timely, high quality care in a courteous and respectful manner. (1, 3, 6) 5%

Criteria

A. Demonstrates care and courtesy

1. Provides prompt, respectful, and courteous service.

2. Meets physical, spiritual, psychological, and emotional needs of patients and families.

3. Demonstrates ability to relate to coworkers in a professional and respectful manner, to assure and promote a culture of safety.

B. Communicates effectively and maintains confidentiality

1. Listens to patient/family concerns and addresses needs.

2. Explains procedures and all education in a manner that patient and family understand.

3. Allows time for questions.

C. Demonstrates competence and collaboration

1. Provides quality care in accordance to standards.

2. Assist with other departments to facilitate workflow and continuity.

3. Provides cost effective services.

4. Uses resources wisely.

5. Recommends changes in practice that increase efficiency and minimize waste.

9. Personal Accountability: Demonstrates accountability for own job performance. (1, 3) 5%

Criteria

A. Acknowledges authority, responding appropriately to supervisors directions.

B. Participates in additional learning experience to increase competence, including:

1. Staff meetings

2. Mandatory in-services and other educational programs

C. Assumes responsibility for completing all annual mandatory requirements:

D. Is at work as scheduled and begins duties promptly at start of shift.

E. Functions as a resource person to co-workers, patients/families, medical staff, and ancillary personnel.