1. Prepares the procedure room environment according to the catheterization procedure, including equipment set-up
2. Inspects equipment, instruments, or supplies to ensure proper operation
3. Prepares for the specific procedure, including radiation safety
4. Creates and maintains sterile field
5. Participates in reviewing and validating patient and procedure information, including time out, consent, laboratory values, and patient status
6. Assists cardiologists with gowning and gloving
7. Wears personal protective equipment effectively and consistently

1. Explains procedural information and radiation risk to patients to obtain cooperation and reduce anxiety
2. Transports patients safely to the procedure room
3. Participates in pre-procedure checklist, including pre-procedure time-out
4. Positions patient on a procedural table, using body stabilizing equipment such as Velcro straps, padding, wedges, and arm boards
5. Conducts site preparation by draping patient, trimming patient hair, and aseptically preparing catheter insertion sites
6. Places monitoring equipment such as noninvasive blood pressure cuff and pulse oximeter
7. Applies leads from an electrocardiogram (EKG) machine for a 5-point EKG and operates the machine to produce a reading
8. Places defibrillation pads
9. Administers procedural sedation, anesthesia, and emergency medication at the direction of cardiologist
10. Assists with Foley Catheter insertion

1. Conducts physiologic monitoring of patient (including temperature, Electrocardiogram, respiration, noninvasive blood pressure, intravascular pressure, pulse oximetry, and capnography) and communicates with the physician
2. Monitors patient’s safety and comfort during tests, alerting physicians to abnormalities or changes in patient responses or level of consciousness
3. Assists with left heart catheterization procedures
4. Helps with hemodynamic data collection
5. Assists with right heart catheterization procedures
6. Supports with intracardiac and intravascular imaging procedures
7. Assists with fractional flow reserve and instantaneous fractional reserve interventions
8. Aids in assessing diastolic pressure ratio (dPR) and resting full-cycle ratio (RFR)
9. Assists in endomyocardial biopsy
10. Supports with set-up, positioning, and operation of imaging system procedures while ensuring radiation safety
11. Aids in pharmacological interventions according to physician’s orders
12. Assists with obtaining vascular access, including ultrasound-guided access
13. Operates diagnostic and interventional equipment and adjusts according to physician’s orders
14. Monitors video displays of medical equipment to ensure proper functioning
15. Aids in development, quality assurance, and capture of radiographic and hemodynamic information
16. Monitors and maintains medical equipment such as oxygen delivery systems, indwelling catheters, drainage bags, intravenous units, and suction

1. Delivers instruments or supplies for team members during procedures
2. Provide intraoperative assistance when delegated by a cardiologist, including preparation of balloons and stents
3. Assists with device implants
4. Helps with coronary interventions
5. Aids with vascular closure devices
6. Assists with peripheral interventions
7. Helps with mechanical circulation support
8. Assists with the insertion and operation of a transvenous temporary pacemaker
9. Helps with thrombectomy: cardiac/peripheral, mechanical/aspirational
10. Assists with the insertion of distal embolic protection devices
11. Supports in performing nonvalvular structural heart therapies
12. Assists with performing percutaneous valve interventions
13. Handles medications, solutions, and specimens appropriately
14. Assists with pharmacological interventions according to physician’s orders, according to standards of the health care facility and the state
15. Aids in administering blood products or other fluids intravenously, as allowed by standards of the health care facility and the state

1. Recognizes and reports emergencies from patient observation and hemodynamic data
2. Assists with Advanced Cardiac Life Support or Pediatric Advanced Life Support resuscitation procedures and medications
3. Supports care team with defibrillators (Monophasic or Biphasic Units, Automatic External Defibrillators)
4. Helps with pacemakers and external pacing
5. Assists with pericardiocentesis
6. Maintains safe preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative environments, including infection control
7. Practices appropriate precautions with critical equipment
8. Practices general safety precautions, including minimization of chronic orthopedic injuries
9. Maximizes radiation safety, including appropriate shielding and protection equipment and minimizing radiation exposure
10. Monitors radiation exposure within appropriate dosage and following appropriate protocols
11. Assists with suction and airway management

1. Verifies patient’s readiness and transports patient from the treatment area
2. Assists in patient monitoring and assessment via electrocardiograms and vital signs
3. Manages procedure site, including all forms of hemostasis, checking for hematomas, and assessing distal pulses
4. Transcribes and distributes reports of procedures for interpretation by a physician
5. Captures factors such as the amount and quality of radiation dosage and diagnostic data into computer
6. Performs postoperative equipment cleaning and resetting and performs room turnover
7. Prepares materials for sterile processing
8. Handles and disposes of hazardous materials, including sharps, blood, and tissue samples
9. Assists with postoperative injection of subcutaneous local anesthetic agents, as allowed by standards of the health care facility and the state
10. Supports with patient ambulation
11. Contributes to patient education

1. Engages effectively in interprofessional communications
2. Participates professionally in inter- and intradepartmental committees
3. Inventories and rotates supplies
4. Maintains cleanliness of department
5. Checks, tests, and maintains cardiology equipment
6. Informs medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care
7. Follows Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) guidelines for any dissemination of patient information
8. Participates in preparatory drills for facility emergencies (fire, earthquake, tornado, etc.) and takes appropriate action in actual emergencies
9. Precepts other cardiology technologists
10. Performs general administrative tasks, such as ordering supplies or equipment

1. Stays informed about modifications and advances in procedures and technology
2. Completes continuing education activities as required by the state
3. Maintains certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC), and Basic Life Support (BLS)
4. Achieves and maintains specialty credentials as a registered cardiovascular invasive specialist (RCIS)
5. Contributes to performance improvement, quality improvement, and quality assurance activities
6. Sustains membership in professional societies

Sample learning objectives Explain the mission of the employer’s organization. Describe the organizational structure of the employer’s organization. Explain the chain of command in the employer’s organization and the steps an employee should take to report concerns about practices or behaviors in the workplace or to share ideas about how to improve processes or efficiencies. Describe the employer’s policies for workplace conduct and ethics. Explain the employer’s policies regarding medical leave and vacation. Clarify the apprenticeship program’s requirements and the apprentice’s role in the organization’s business activities.

Sample learning objectives Explain the use of numbers, exponents, and mathematical symbols. Simply mathematical equations. Solve and graph linear and quadratic equations. Solve and graph polynomial and rational equations and functions. Solve and graph exponential and logarithmic equations. Solve multivariable systems of linear equations and inequalities. Demonstrate proficiency in matrix operations, properties, determinants, and their application in solving equations. Solve two-variable equations.

Sample learning objectives Explain the etymology of commonly used medical terms. Correctly identify the meaning of Latin prefixes, suffixes, and root terms that are commonly used in medicine. Describe the function of each of the body’s major systems and use the correct terms to list the component organs and tissues of each system. Identify the medical specialist that treats each of the body’s systems. Correctly identify commonly diagnosed medical conditions associated with each of the body’s major systems. Explain how to find the correct spelling and definition of terms with which the student is not familiar. Comprehend and effectively use medical abbreviations.

Hours: Most colleges offer this as a two-course sequence that cumulatively includes six credit hours of classroom instruction plus two hours of laboratory instruction (or 90 classroom hours plus 90 hours of laboratory study). However, some colleges offer a single 3- or 4-credit anatomy and physiology course for allied health students. Sample learning objectives Explain the importance of maintaining homeostasis in the body and describe the various mechanisms used by the body’s systems. Use proper terminology to describe location or directional aspects of anatomy, to identify body planes, and to identify body cavities. Name, identify, and describe the function of the components of the body’s systems (integumentary, cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory, endocrine, muscular, skeletal, digestive, lymphatic, urinary, reproductive, circulatory, and pulmonary). Explain the chemistry of living systems, including the structure of atoms and molecules; the importance of maintaining the appropriate pH or acid–base balance; the structure and function of cells; intercellular and intracellular movement, including by osmosis and diffusion; the chemistry of water, carbon, and oxygen; the structure and function of deoxyribonucleic acid and ribonucleic acid and the processes of transcription and translation; and cellular systems for the production and consumption of energy. Identify the key components of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems. Explain the components and processes involved in cellular metabolism. Describe the most common sources of anatomical or physiological pathology and the impact of pathology on each of the body’s systems. Demonstrate using essential laboratory equipment, including microscopes, dissection tools, spirometers, sphygmomanometers, hydrometers, blood typing and analysis, and centrifuges. Describe the mechanisms for protecting patients and health care workers from radiation exposure or overexposure.

Sample learning objectives Explain the structure of the atom and use appropriate terminology to identify atoms. Discuss the nature of radiation and radioactivity. Explain the molecular structure of radioisotopes and the physical/chemical process by which energy is released. List the names of radioisotopes commonly used in medical imaging and treatments. Explain the federal and state regulations that dictate the use, exposure to, and disposal of radiologic materials. Explain the principles of time, distance, and shielding related to radiation safety. Explain the principle of “as low as reasonably achievable” or ALARA regarding radiation safety. Explain the hazards associated with the use of radioisotopes and the protective measures used to limit and monitor patient and provider exposure.

Sample learning objectives Explain the technologies used to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for cardiomyopathy or pathophysiology. Explain the instruments used to perform cardiovascular diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Explain the physics of ultrasound technology and the use of ultrasound in cardiovascular diagnostics and therapies. Explain the purpose and function of cardio-assistive devices, such as pacemakers. Explain the operating principles of defibrillator technologies and demonstrate the use of a portable emergency defibrillator. Explain using distal protection devices, such as filter devices, to clear particulate matter that complicates coronary and peripheral interventions. Explain using C-arm technology in performing image-assisted diagnostic or surgical interventions. Explain the use of pivot tables and assistive devices for positioning patients for radiological imaging. Explain the purpose of vein grafting techniques and the potential risks.

Sample learning objectives Discuss the structure and function of cardiac and skeletal muscles. Explain the structure and function of heart valves. Demonstrate comprehension of the anatomy and physiology of arterial and venous systems, including coronary arteries and veins. Discuss the significance of cardiac ion channels. Explain the cardiac cycle, blood flow through the heart, and cardiac output. Clarify the metrics of cardiac function. Discuss the factors that influence blood pressure. Explain the neural and physiological (vascular) control mechanisms that regulate the heart, circulation, microcirculation, and arterial pressure. Clarify the role of exercise in cardiac function. Discuss fetal circulation and common fetal and neonatal heart defects. Explain the causes and symptoms of shock and heart failure. Discuss the effects of diet and aging on cardiac structure and function.

Sample learning objectives Explain physical and chemical changes that alter electrophysiology. Discuss the role of diet and exercise in preventing cardiovascular pathology. Explain the types of congenital heart defects detected in fetuses, children, and adults. Discuss gender-related differences in cardiovascular anatomy and physiology. Clarify the causes of hypo- and hypertension and explain how each can be avoided or treated. Explain the cause and effects of pericardial disease and methods for detecting pericardial conditions. Clarify the causes and effects of atherosclerotic disease, ischemic disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Discuss the causes, signs, and symptoms of heart failure. Explain the etiology and treatment for arrhythmias. Explain the anatomy and physiology of valvular disease. Discuss the etiology and treatment of pulmonary vascular disease. Explain common treatments and therapies for cardiovascular disease, such as pacemakers and defibrillators, interventional cardiology, anticoagulation, and transplantation. Describe the process by which thrombus and emboli form and inflict pathophysiology.

Sample learning objectives Demonstrate the ability to apply leads and perform an electrocardiogram (ECG). Explain the purpose of an echocardiogram and demonstrate the ability to perform an echocardiogram. Analyze ECG results to identify instances of pathophysiology (e.g., infarct, bundle branch block, ischemia). Explain the principles of cardiac ultrasound, demonstrate the ability to perform ultrasound imaging, and identify cardiovascular structures. Describe the principles used to perform fractional flow reserve studies and demonstrate the ability to assist in conducting such studies. Explain the process and purpose of angioplasty and thrombectomy.

Sample learning objectives Discuss the types of medications used to prevent or treat cardiac myopathy, defect, injury, or malfunction. Explain the contraindications for commonly used cardiac pharmaceuticals. Discuss the pharmacological effects of widely used medications. Describe the cardiovascular impact of various pharmaceuticals, including medications prescribed by physicians and those obtained privately and without a prescription. Explain and demonstrate the ability to provide emergency treatments, such as Narcan, in instances where an overdose causes a cardiac or cardiopulmonary emergency. Describe the function and use of glycoprotein IIB/IIIA inhibitors in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Sample learning objectives Explain the importance of patient-informed consent and compliance with the Health care Information and Personal Protection Act (HIPPA) requirements. Review patient medical records to identify critical information, such as known allergies, laboratory results, patient directives, prior surgeries or treatments, medical history, and recent electrocardiogram results. Take patient vital signs, including weight, temperature, blood pressure, and pulse. Ensure that patient identification bracelets are appropriately attached and include correct information about the patient, known allergies, and medical directives. Explain the importance of proper patient education before, during, and following cardiac treatment and demonstrate the ability to provide clear and concise information and instructions, including to individuals with physical or mental disabilities or limited proficiency in English. Review patient medication lists and identify medications that may be contraindicated based on the cardiac condition or the impending cardiac treatment. Collect and review radiographic images, ensuring that they are correctly inserted into the patient’s chart or medical record and that appropriate images are displayed according to surgical protocols. Prepare patients for cardiac exams and procedures properly. Set up a cardiovascular intervention treatment room. Use proper disinfection, sterilization, and sterile techniques to set up and maintain cardiovascular treatment areas and to engage in patient care.

Sample learning objectives Explain coronary and peripheral interventions’ purpose, benefits, and risks. Discuss the purpose, process, and risks of thrombectomy. Discuss the purpose, process, and risks of grafting. Explain the purpose, process, and risks of cardio assistive devices, such as defibrillators, cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices, loop recorders, and implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Discuss the purpose, process, and risks of atherectomy and ablation. Explain the purpose, process, and risks of structural heart therapies, such as those used to correct septal and valvular defects. Discuss the purpose, process, and risks of cardiac fluoroscopy. Show the purpose, process, and risks of inserting distal protection devices. Discuss the purpose, process, and risks of angioplasty and stenting. Explain and demonstrate the ability to assist in performing vascular access and ultrasound-guided access through multiple points of entry, including femoral, brachial, radial, and jugular.

Sample learning objectives Maintain current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification for health care workers and demonstrate the ability to properly administer CPR to infant, pediatric, and adult patients. Discuss the causes and effects of emergency clinical presentations, such as cardiogenic shock, pulmonary edema, stroke, myocardial infarction, and STelevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Explain the complications during cardiovascular interventions, such as perforation, and the appropriate response. Describe the causes of peripheral and structural heart complications during invasive cardiovascular procedures, such as embolism, dissection, device migration, and perforation, as well as the appropriate emergency response. Maintain and use emergency equipment, such as a defibrillator, code cart, suction, and airway management. Discuss the causes and appropriate emergency response to bleeding and occlusion. Explain the importance of incentive spirometry following cardiac and other surgical procedures.