Cardiovascular Technologist Technician

Cardiovascular technologists assist doctors in diagnosing issues with the heart and blood vessels. They usually specialize in a particular area of practice.
 
Cardiovascular techs are often required to move heavy machinery or assist patients. Cardiovascular technologists that work with X-rays and similar equipment may be at risk for radiation exposure, but that danger is minimized by shields and other forms of protection.

Job Description

Cardiovascular tech jobs usually fall into one of four major categories:
  • Cardiology: studying the heart using both invasive and non-invasive procedures
  • Echocardiography: studying the heart using ultrasound technology
  • Electrocardiography: diagnosing patients using stress tests and electrocardiograms (EKGs)
  • Vascular technology: studying blood vessels and analyzing abnormalities.
Cardiovascular technicians prepare patients for tests and explain testing procedures to them. They operate the testing machinery and perform physical exams.
 
Specific procedures vary depending on the technician's specialty. For example, a cardiology technologist might prepare and insert a catheter--a tube inserted near the groin area that connects to the patient's heart through blood vessels--and help the doctor identify blockages.
 
Meanwhile, an EKG technician might prepare a patient for a stress test by attaching electrodes to a patient's chest. The same technician presents a review of the stress test to a doctor, who uses the information to identify potential problems.

Salary Guide

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cardiovascular technologist salary in 2008 was $47,010 per year. Most jobs in cardiovascular technology pay between $32,800 and $61,580 annually. Those just starting out can expect a starting salary of around $25,510, but that should increase with experience and training. The most well-paid cardiovascular technologists earn more than $74,760 per year.

Education, Training and Work Experience

Most cardiovascular technologists have an Associate�s degree. Coursework includes core classes and a year of specialized instruction in one of the four categories of cardiovascular technology. However, EKG technician jobs require no degree and offer on-the-job training. In the US, certification is optional for all cardiovascular technologists.

Career Advancement

Employment outlook for cardiovascular technologists is good, with jobs expected to grow faster than average, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many hospitals and clinics offer technologist jobs with increasing levels of responsibility, so with experience and training, technicians can move up through the ranks. Some technologists choose to be trained in more than one specialization, increasing their employability. Others move into management, administration, education or research.

Related Associations and Groups

Many associations and groups exist for cardiovascular technologists. They include:
  • Alliance of Cardiovascular Professionals
  • American Heart Association
  • American Society of Echocardiography
  • Society of Invasive Cardiovascular Professionals.
 
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