From detailed interventions to sophisticated procedures, the cardiac catheterization laboratory or ‘cath lab’ is a pioneering space in the world of cardiology. One of the most critical roles within the cath lab is that of a cath lab technician. These individuals work with other professionals to treat patients with cardiovascular issues. The only thing better than working as a cath lab tech is building a career as a travel cath lab tech. Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health is committed to helping you as you pursue this career path. Knowing what education you’ll need and other requirements is just the first step to setting yourself up for success.
A Cath Lab Technician’s Role in the Cardiac Cath Lab
Many people assume that a clinical lab technician or certified lab technician is the same as a cath lab tech, but they’re slightly different. A clinical lab technician can work in a variety of different departments, while a catheterization lab technician especially works in the cardiac department.
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Cath lab technicians, also known as cardiac catheterization technologists, play a critical role in the cardiac cath lab. They assist other professionals in performing minimally invasive cardiac procedures to diagnose and treat cardiovascular disease.
Each cath lab technician role will be a little bit different, but overall, the duties are similar across the board. Some of the key responsibilities of a cath lab tech include:
- Preparing patients for cardiac catheterization procedures
- Sterilizing equipment and setting up tray tables with necessary tools and devices
- Assisting other professionals during the procedure by handing instruments, manipulating catheters and guidewires, and operating angiographic equipment
- Monitoring patients’ vital signs and comfort levels during the procedure
- Maintaining sterile technique and following safety protocols
- Providing post-procedure care to patients before transfer
- Maintaining detailed patient records and documentation for each procedure
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Understanding the Work of Cath Lab Techs in Cardiac Environments
Cath lab technicians play an integral role in the interdisciplinary cardiac cath lab team. They work closely with cardiologists, nurses, and radiologic technologists to deliver optimal procedural care to patients with heart conditions.
Their main workspace is the cardiac catheterization laboratory, where they spend long periods on their feet. The environment requires wearing lead aprons and standing over patients during procedures that can last over an hour.
Cath lab techs must have a firm grasp of human anatomy and cardiovascular physiology. They also require dexterity and skill in handling tiny devices and catheters used during angiograms, angioplasties, stent placements, and structural heart repairs.
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Communication skills are also vital in this allied health role, like many others. Techs serve as a bridge between patients and physicians before, during, and after procedures. They explain what’s happening, monitor comfort levels, and provide results.
Procedures Performed by Cath Lab Technicians
Cath lab techs assist in a range of minimally invasive cardiac procedures. Depending on the medical facility where you’re working, you might see more of one procedure than another or a range. Some of the most commonly performed cath lab procedures are:
- Cardiac Catheterization (also called angiogram or coronary angiography): This diagnostic procedure involves threading a catheter through blood vessels to inject dye and visualize blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries.
- PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention): Using catheterization for balloon angioplasty and stent placement to open blocked arteries.
- Pacemaker/ICD Implantation: Implanting pacemakers or internal cardiac defibrillators to regulate heart rhythm.
- Structural Heart Procedures: Repairing heart valves and defects through catheterization rather than open-heart surgery.
- Vascular Procedures: Imaging and treating peripheral arterial/venous disease through catheterization.
Education Requirements for a Travel Cath Lab Technician
The education process for a travel cath lab tech isn’t overly complicated, but it does require dedication and a commitment to the field. When applying for cardiac catheterization technologist jobs, you’ll need to have specific education requirements. Fortunately, there are a few different educational routes you can take with this career path.
The first option you have is to earn an associate’s degree in cardiovascular technology, invasive cardiovascular technology, or vascular technology. This is a two-year degree that provides you with a solid foundation for getting started as a cath lab technician. There’s also the option to get a bachelor’s degree in something like health sciences if you wish to attend a four-year program.
Many aspiring cath lab techs complete both didactic coursework and clinical rotations to gain hands-on lab experience. Once you start working as a travel cath lab tech, Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health will still be there to help you, thanks to our QIN-Led Team, which offers you clinical support when you need it.
Certifications for a Travel Cath Lab Technician
Certifications are abundant in healthcare, and travel cath lab technicians can benefit from a variety of different certifications. Many employers don’t require all of these, but they’re still worth looking into and pursuing:
- Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS)
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
Having certifications demonstrates a lab tech’s expertise, work ethic, and dedication to staying up-to-date on the latest technology, techniques, regulations, and best practices. It validates your knowledge, sets you up for a higher earning potential, increases career advancement and job opportunities, and boosts your professional credibility.
Future Prospects for Certified Cardiac Catheterization Technicians in the Cath Lab
The job outlook is strong for certified cath lab techs. An aging population with high rates of heart disease will increase the demand for diagnostic imaging and minimally invasive procedures performed in the cath lab. Experienced technologists with RCIS certification will be favored to fill lead, training, and management roles.
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is estimating that the growth rate for this healthcare position will grow 10% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than other careers. With the demand for these roles increasing, Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health will be there to help you grow your career while finding the best possible travel assignments.
Ongoing advances in catheterization equipment and techniques will also create a need for certified technicians. Lab managers value RCIS credentialed staff for their up-to-date knowledge and ability to provide skilled patient care.
Start Your Travel Cardiac Catheterization Technologist Career With Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health
Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health is a traveler-nominated top 10 agency that prides itself on helping allied health professionals achieve their dream of traveling the country while providing excellent care. Our recruiters are ready to help you find travel cardiac catheterization technologist jobs that match your career goals and healthcare experience.
When you decide to work with us, the benefits will allow you to reach your career goals. Some of the benefits that we offer our travel cath lab techs are:
- A Full Circle of Support
- Personalized job descriptions that match your experience and career goals
- Support from a QIN-Led Team
- Competitive pay rates
- Comprehensive health and wellness plans
- Retirement savings plans
Check out On Demand, our powerful web app, where you can search and apply for travel cardiac cath tech jobs nationwide.
FAQs
What degree do I need to work in a cath lab?
To work in a catheterization laboratory (cath lab), you typically need a degree in radiologic technology, depending on the specific role you are interested in. For cath lab techs, you’ll need an associate degree in radiologic technology or cardiovascular technology.
How long does it take to be a cath lab tech?
Becoming a catheterization laboratory (cath lab) technician typically requires completing a two-year associate’s degree in cardiovascular technology or a similar field, followed by obtaining a professional certification, such as the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) certification. The process can take about 2 to 4 years, depending on the individual’s educational path and the time taken to acquire the necessary certification and clinical experience.
What is a cath lab tech called?
A cath lab tech is commonly referred to as a Cardiovascular Technologist or Technician.
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