What Do Cardiovascular Technologists Do?

Brad Reilly, RCIS

Gaining employment as a Cardiovascular Technologist (CVT) can be the first step toward a long, rewarding career in healthcare. As in the case of most healthcare careers, this occupation comes with a set of unique tasks, responsibilities and expectations. But what do Cardiovascular Technologists do exactly? While the work can be stressful and challenging at times, professionals within this industry also find great reward in their ability to improve patient conditions. To exemplify why this healthcare career is a great professional pathway to consider, here are the top 5 reasons to become a CVT:

1. Work as part of a healthcare team
   

While some careers involve working more independently than others, CVTs are active members of a healthcare team. They are heavily relied upon by other healthcare career professionals to complete their responsibilities so that others may carry out theirs. Teamwork is an important part of the workplace dynamic in hospitals and other healthcare settings, so having strong interpersonal skills is extremely beneficial. Overall, working together with others for the greater good of a patient can offer unbelievable reward.

“The Cardiovascular Technologist plays an integral role in cardiovascular care by providing education on and assisting with the treatment of many manifestations of cardiovascular disease,” Brad Reilly, RCIS, a Cardiac Cath Lab Technologist at Medical City Lewisville in Texas, said. “A career as a CVT is very rewarding. The work is gratifying and being part of a team that provides quality care to patients in their time of need is fulfilling.”

2. There always exists the possibility to learn

As technology and medicine continue to advance, there will be a need for Cardiovascular Technologists to stay up-to-date on best practices. Therefore, these professionals must complete continued education classes periodically to ensure that they retain the new information when presented. Not only does this help to ensure successful patient outcomes, but this requirement requires that CVTs must constantly be learning. This learning can lead to brain stimulation, a genuine interest in cardiovascular technology and a sense of expertise.

“Continuing education is not just important for certification maintenance, but this learning is also crucial for providing the best possible care to the patients in our communities,” Reilly stressed.

3. There are many opportunities for advancement

The possibility of advancement is an important aspect to consider when choosing any career. This is another reason why a career as a Cardiovascular Technologist is appealing to many learners! After landing an entry-level role in this occupation, there are many ways to set one’s self up to “climb the professional ladder.” Whether through continued education or by requesting more managerial responsibilities, CVTs who work diligently and who express their interest in advancing their career in healthcare are likely to find these opportunities.

“There are numerous avenues to advance within the cardiovascular field, and the greater medical field,” Reilly explained. “Obtaining the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) certification is largely beneficial as many hospitals now require this credential upon hiring, or within six months of hire. Also, some CVT’s advance in their career by acquiring other certifications such as the Registered Cardiovascular Electrophysiology Specialist (RCES).”

4. No two days are the same

Some professionals strive to find careers in which their daily routine will vary from day to day. This variation helps prevent providers from getting bored with their work or career. In a career as a Cardiovascular Technologist, each day consists of new patients, evaluations and treatments. Thus, CVTs can expect to be faces with new situations and challenges every day at work.

“A normal day as a Cardiovascular Technologist may be slow with few elective procedures scheduled, but can rapidly become a busy day as urgent cases and segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) are added to the schedule,” Reilly noted. “The day typically starts with ensuring quality control of all the essential equipment used to support patients during procedures. Ensuring availability of emergency supplies is a daily requirement as well.”

5. Help others every day

By far, most Cardiovascular Technologists would say the ability to help others is what motivates them each day. Using techniques and methodologies, CVTs can detect heart defects, conditions and functional problems. In some cases, their work can mean the life or death of a patient. In addition to physically assisting patients, these professionals will also educate patients and the public on best practices, helping to keep them healthy and well-informed.

“I chose to become a Cardiovascular Technologist because I truly enjoy working with, and learning about the heart,” Reilly stressed. “I also enjoy the teamwork atmosphere, and the career can be very gratifying when providing comfort and symptom relief to critically ill patients during their most vulnerable times.”

Learn more about the educational requirements to begin a career in healthcare as a Cardiovascular Technologist today!