Are you looking for a career that allows you to assist in performing life-saving procedures while working in operating rooms alongside cardiovascular surgeons and other healthcare professionals? If so, a role as a cath lab technician could be exactly what you’re looking for. In this guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at the role of cath lab techs, including what they do, they’re typical responsibilities, and the requirements to become one.
What is a Cath Lab Tech?
A cath lab tech is a medical professional who works alongside cardiologists in the cardiac catheterization lab. Cath lab techs provide assistance to cardiologists across a range of procedures, including stent and pacemaker placements, angiograms, and ablations. Cath lab techs also help to prep patients prior to undergoing procedures and monitor them during and post-surgery.
What Does a Cath Lab Tech Do?
Cath lab techs cover a wide range of responsibilities, from prepping patients for procedures to operating special equipment. Some of the key responsibilities for cath lab techs include:
- Conducting initial patient assessments
- Assisting with patient preparation for procedures
- Monitoring patient vital signs and sedation levels before, during, and after
surgeries - Maintaining accurate patient records
- Facilitating discharge planning and patient referrals
Cath Lab Tech Requirements
In order to practice at a cath lab tech, you must first obtain the proper degrees. These include:
- A high school diploma
- An associate degree in invasive cardiovascular technology
- Clinical training (usually included in ICT program)
There are also a number of cath lab tech certifications that can help you obtain jobs in certain labs. While not all positions require certifications, not having the appropriate certifications could discount you from certain positions. Common cath lab tech certifications include:
- Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist
- Cardiac Interventional Radiography
- Vascular Interventional Radiography
- Registered Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist
Many states also require you to obtain the proper state-specific licensure to work as a cath lab tech. Specifications vary depending on the state in which you plan to work. We recommend finding the state-specific requirements in your area.
If a career as a cath lab tech sounds like something you’re interested in pursuing,
find all of our available cath lab tech openings here.