Cath Lab Technician: Programs & Requirements

<p>Cath lab technicians, also known as invasive cardiac technologists, are part of cardiovascular catheterization teams who work alongside cardiologists - doctors who specialize in the heart and treatment of heart-related conditions. As such, cath lab technicians must have a highly specialized set of skills and knowledge in order to assist with surgical procedures such as stent insertion, advanced cardiac life support, and angioplasty. Programs designed to train students to work as invasive cardiac technologists (ICTs) are generally either associate's degree programs or advanced certificate programs, which require applicants to already have an associate's degree and work experience in a related health field. This type of ICT program could be well-suited for those looking for a slight change of career or to develop a specialty in addition to their existing medical training. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Cath Lab Technician</b></td><td> Also known as Invasive Cardiac Technologist (ICT), certified technicians who assist with heart surgery</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Admission Requirements</b></td><td> High school diploma or equivalent, physical exam, immunization records, background check, and drug screening</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Courses</b></td><td> Medical terminology, cardiovascular pharmacology, invasive cardiology</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Certification</b></td><td> Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) through CCI</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhatAreTheRequirementsToBeAcceptedToACathLabTechnicianProgram">What Are the Requirements to be Accepted to a Cath Lab Technician Program?</h3> <p>Due to the highly specialized nature of the program, many schools that do offer ICT training only admit applicants once a year and have small class sizes, so it is important to follow admission and application guidelines. Applicants must have graduated high school. Some general education credits may be required before courses specific to the program can be taken, although students who already hold an associate's degree may be able to fulfill requirements with courses taken for that degree. CPR certification is a common requirement, although not universal. When applying, students will have to submit evidence of a physical and immunization records. They must also complete a drug screening and background check. Computer and internet access are often informal requirements, as is reliable transportation to travel to sites where externships or clinical training take place. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatCoursesCanITakeDuringACathLabTechnicianProgram">What Courses Can I Take During a Cath Lab Technician Program?</h3> <p>Associate's degree programs for cath lab technicians include a number of general education requirements, such as ethics, psychology, and anatomy and physiology, some of which may also be prerequisites for certificate programs. The core curriculum includes more basic topics to start with, such as medical terminology, technical writing, and an introduction to healthcare. More advanced associate's degree courses or those that feature heavily in certificate programs include invasive cardiology, cardiovascular pharmacology, critical care applications, and radiation biology and safety. ICT programs also include a significant clinical training or externship portion, with over 1,000 hours of on-the-job learning typically required. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatCertificationsDoINeedToWorkAsACathLabTechnician">What Certifications Do I Need to Work as a Cath Lab Technician?</h3> <p>The nationally recognized credential for invasive cardiac technologists is the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist, or RCIS, and is provided by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). Accredited ICT programs will, upon completion, render graduates eligible to sit for the RCIS certification exam. After certification is earned, it must be maintained by renewal; the first renewal is required nine to twelve months after certification, while all subsequent renewals are every three years and have a continuing education requirement that must be met.</p>