BASIC FUNCTION: Under the direct supervision of the registered nurse, the Cardiovascular Tech (CVT) functions as an integral part of the cath lab team working to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive procedures. CVT’s primary responsibilities are to prepare and maintain the sterile field, pass instruments, and assist the cardiologist within their scope of practice. The CVT collaborates with other members of the team to utilize resources in a cost- effective manner in an environment that promotes continuous quality improvement. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Education: A high school diploma or equivalent and specialized training in cardiology such as an Applied Science degree in Cardiovascular Technology or other related medical field. Graduates of accredited Cardiovascular Technology programs must hold nationally accredited certification or be eligible for certification. Experience: Experience preferred. Integral components consist of strong interpersonal skills with an emphasis on collaborative team behaviors. Certification: BLS certification is mandatory. The credential of Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) must be obtained within 18 months of date of hire as a Cardiovascular Tech. Coverage: In addition to regularly scheduled work days, the CVT provides scheduled on call coverage on a rotating basis during department off hours such as nights, weekends, and holidays. MAKING ELLIS EXCEPTIONAL (MEE) BEHAVIORS & STANDARDS RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION:
Exhibits professional behaviors and skills in the interventional cardiology environment.
Adheres to the Hospitals Code of Ethics
Behaviors and communication are professional, positive, and respectful
Follows through with assignments and instructions
Assists the cath lab team in providing a safe environment of care related to patients and personnel.
Utilizes safe patient handling techniques
Minimizes occupational injury by employing proper body mechanics during the performance of physical tasks
Utilizes appropriate personal protective devices
Maintains a clean and safe work area. Takes precautions to avoid hazards associated with infectious and non-infectious wastes
Contacts appropriate Charge Nurse or manager for equipment problems
Relays information appropriate to repair services for equipment problems. Fills out service logs for all calls to GE Cares lines for service on Innova, Mac lab, and Centricity systems.
Applies the principles of asepsis to the practice of sterile technique
Performs hand antisepsis according to established guidelines
Utilizes sterile technique when donning gown and gloves. Able to don gown and gloves and assist others to do so without contamination
Creates and maintains a sterile field according to AORN guidelines
Inspects items to be introduced to the sterile field for proper processing, packaging, and package integrity
Verbalizes knowledge of correct traffic patterns in and around the sterile field
Recognizes breaks in sterile technique when preparing, performing or assisting with procedures. Takes immediate corrective action when a break in sterile technique occurs
Successfully demonstrates competencies of decontamination, and immediate use sterilization
Selects the appropriate method of cleaning/sterilization according to the manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU)
Demonstrates knowledge of relevant anatomy and pathology for cardiac procedures, and cardiologist preferences.
Cardiovascular Tech will safely prepare equipment and patient for cardiac procedures
Selects appropriate supplies, instruments, and equipment for cardiac procedures
Cardiovascular Tech will assist in performing general cath lab duties
Adheres to the policies and procedures as outlined in the exposure control manual:
Standard Precautions
Blood Borne Pathogens
Disposal of Sharps
Blood/Body Fluid Spills
Medical Waste Disposal
Adheres to hospital policies and procedures.
The CVT actively participates in the training and cross-training of staff and students using appropriate competency documents.
Actively participates in quality assurance documentation, review and
Participates in ongoing education and training to advance practice
Maintains RCIS certification by participating in continuing education activities
Completes Annual:
Mandatory Healthstream education
Health assessment
Competencies
Level 2, CVT: Will perform all the duties of the Level 1 CVT plus:
The CVT-2, will safely prepare equipment and patients for diagnostic and interventional cardiac procedures, including STEMI’s, pacers, ICDs, and event recorders.
Has been employed as a CVT for a minimum of one year
Demonstrates advanced knowledge and proficient practice in sterile field and equipment set up in a majority of cardiac procedures.
Applies knowledge of advanced technical aspects of all devices and equipment used.
Applies knowledge related to emergency situations and STEMI protocols.
Demonstrates critical thinking skills in relation to anticipating the perioperative needs of the patient and cardiologist
Exhibits a higher level of collaboration with peers in making decisions related to cardiac patient care.
