Cardiovascular Technologist (CT/CVT)

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians help physicians in diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel diseases and disorders. There are many specialized areas which are briefly outlined in this section.

Specializations

• Electrocardiograph Technician – Electrocardiograph technicians, sometimes referred to as ECG or EKG technicians, are trained to conduct an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), which measures the heart’s electrical impulses and provides data to help determine the existence of a heart ailment.
• Echocardiograph Technician – Echocardiograph technicians, sometimes known as diagnostic cardiac sonographers perform ultrasounds on the heart to assist the physician in the diagnosis of disease and to conduct studies of the heart.
• Cardiopulmonary Technologist – Cardiopulmonary technologists are sometimes referred to as cardiovascular technologists. They are trained to perform diagnostic tests to determine diagnosis and treatment for heart, lung, or blood vessel ailments.

Work Activities/Work Locations

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians work in hospitals, physician’s offices, cardiac rehabilitation centers and health maintenance organizations (HMO’s). They are trained to conduct various tests to determine the extent of a patient’s cardiovascular problems. Technologists and technicians report findings to the patient’s physician for interpretation. In addition, they may schedule appointments, maintain patient files and maintain equipment. They deal directly with patients and spend a significant amount of time walking and standing. Cardiovascular technologists and technicians typically work a 40-hour week which may include weekends. Some may be on-call during the evening and on weekends. If working in catheterization labs, electrocardiograph technicians may work with patients with serious or critical heart ailments, increasing the likelihood of dealing with life or death situations.