Cath Lab Technician - IR

CHS Career Site; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

CHS Career Site in Birmingham, AL is seeking a Cath Lab Technician to assist physicians during cardiac catheterization and interventional procedures. You will prepare and maintain equipment, monitor patients, and ensure safety and high-quality care throughout the procedure.

The role requires 1-2 years of cath lab experience, strong teamwork and communication, and the ability to respond quickly to emergencies.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in a Cardiac Cath Lab or cardiovascular diagnostic setting required.
• Knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology and medical terminology.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Prepares the cath lab for procedures, ensuring equipment and supplies are ready and functioning.
• Assists physicians during procedures by operating fluoroscopy, IVUS, or hemodynamic monitors.
• Monitors patients' vital signs during procedures and reports abnormalities.
• Positions and prepares patients, explains procedures to reduce anxiety.
• Documents procedures and patient data accurately per policy.
• Adheres to radiation safety and infection control guidelines.
• Assists in contrast/media administration under physician direction.
• Supports quality improvement and accreditation efforts in the Cath Lab.
• Performs routine maintenance and troubleshooting to minimize downtime.
• Provides post-procedural patient care and instructions with the care team.

Skills

Cardiovascular procedures

Patient monitoring

Team communication

Emergency responsiveness

Tools

Fluoroscopy machines

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)

Hemodynamic monitoring systems

Job description

Job Summary

The Cath Lab Technician is responsible for assisting physicians during cardiac catheterization procedures and other interventional procedures to diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions. This role involves preparing and maintaining equipment, monitoring patients during procedures, and ensuring the highest standards of patient care and safety. The Cath Lab Technician plays a key role in supporting the efficiency and effectiveness of the cardiac catheterization laboratory.

Essential Functions

• Prepares the cardiac catheterization laboratory for procedures, ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies are available and functioning properly.
• Assists physicians during procedures by operating specialized equipment, such as fluoroscopy machines, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), or hemodynamic monitoring systems.
• Monitors patients' vital signs during procedures, documenting data and promptly reporting any abnormalities to the physician or clinical team.
• Prepares patients for procedures by positioning, draping, and explaining the process to alleviate anxiety and ensure compliance.
• Ensures accurate and complete documentation of procedures, patient data, and equipment usage in compliance with departmental policies.
• Adheres to radiation safety protocols and infection control guidelines to ensure patient and staff safety.
• Assists in the administration of contrast media and medications under the direction of the physician.
• Participates in quality improvement activities and assists in maintaining accreditation standards for the Cath Lab.
• Conducts routine maintenance and troubleshooting of Cath Lab equipment to ensure proper functionality and minimizes downtime.
• Provides post-procedural care and instructions to patients, collaborating with the healthcare team to ensure optimal recovery and follow-up care.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in a Cardiac Cath Lab or cardiovascular diagnostic setting required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in cardiovascular diagnostic and interventional procedures, equipment use, and patient monitoring.
• Proficient understanding of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and related medical terminology.
• Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration with healthcare teams and patient interaction.
• Ability to maintain focus in a fast-paced environment and respond quickly to emergencies.

Licenses and Certifications

• CVT - Cardiovascular Tech required or
• CRT - Certified Radiologic Technologist required or
• RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required
• BCLS - Basic Life Support within the first 30 days of employment required
• ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred
• ARRT - American Registry of Radiologic Technologists preferred

State Specific Requirements

• Arkansas: Active and unencumbered Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS), or equivalent certification required.