DEBBIE A. MCKNIGHT

 Perform and assist with Invasive and Noninvasive tests at the request of a physician to diagnose and provide therapy for heart disorders.  They help physicians diagnose and care for illness or injuries involving the heart or blood vessels.  Physicians rely on the results to determine the presence and extent of heart disease and as the basis for prescribing therapy

 RCVT’s other duties may include reviewing and recording medical histories, maintaining equipment, preparing patients for examinations, drawing blood samples, and explaining procedures to the patient.

 Cardiovascular technologists may specialize in invasive or noninvasive cardiology procedures.

 Invasive specialties include assisting physicians with cardiac catheterization, balloon angioplasty, and pacemakers.

 Currently there are many opportunities within electrophysiology, which is used to check the heart’s electrical conduction system.  Diseased parts of the electrical system can then be corrected with a technique called radio ablation therapy (destroying the diseased tissue with heat).

 Noninvasive specialties include echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) to image the  valves,  chambers,  vessels,  blood flow  and motion of the heart.

 Non-invasive tests include echocardiography and vascular ultrasound Doppler imaging, and stress tests.

Holter monitoring, Phonocardiography, vector-cardiography

 Most work in a large hospital  Doctor Offices- Cardiologist  Mobile Diagnostic Units  Sales  May Weekend and Night  May On Call  Usually work 40 hours week

 Training programs average two years,  Although they may range from one to four years depending on previous experience and the area of specialization chosen.  The curriculum includes core courses in human physiology, invasive and noninvasive cardiology techniques, and clinical experiences.

 State licensure is not required at the present time.  Credentialing is available through Cardiovascular Credentialing International, Inc. (CCI).  The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) offers registry exams for those who have graduated from approved programs with work experience in echocardiographic and vascular technology.

 Austin Community College-C/A  St, Phillip College- A  Alvin Community College-A  El Centro College in Dallas-A  Houston Community College-A

 Job Outlook  Starting with a C/A 48,663-58,238 5 years 63,065-72, years 73,