The most common level of education completed by cardiovascular technologists
and technicians is an associate degree. Certification, although not required
in all cases, is available.Education and training. Although
a few cardiovascular technologists, vascular technologists, and cardiac
sonographers are currently trained on the job, most receive training in 2-
to 4-year programs. The majority of technologists complete a 2-year junior
or community college program, but 4-year programs are increasingly
available. The first year is dedicated to core courses and is followed by a
year of specialized instruction in either invasive, noninvasive
cardiovascular, or noninvasive vascular technology. Those who are qualified
in an allied health profession need to complete only the year of specialized
instruction.
The Joint Review Committee on Education in Cardiovascular Technology
reviews education programs seeking accreditation. The Commission on
Accreditation of Allied Health Professionals (CAAHEP) accredits these
education programs; as of 2006, there were 31 programs accredited in
cardiovascular technology in the United States. Similarly, those who want to
study echocardiography or vascular sonography may also attend CAAHEP
accredited programs in diagnostic medical sonography. In 2006, there were
147 diagnostic medical sonography programs accredited by CAAHEP. Those who
attend these accredited programs are eligible to obtain professional
certification.
Unlike most other cardiovascular technologists and technicians, most EKG
technicians are trained on the job by an EKG supervisor or a cardiologist.
On-the-job training usually lasts about 8 to 16 weeks. Most employers prefer
to train people already in the health care field—nursing aides, for example.
Some EKG technicians are students enrolled in 2-year programs to become
technologists, working part time to gain experience and make contact with
employers. One-year certification programs exist for basic EKGs, Holter
monitoring, and stress testing.
Licensure and certification. Some States require workers in
this occupation to be licensed. For information on a particular State,
contact that State’s medical board. Certification is available from two
organizations: Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and the
American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). The CCI offers
four certifications—Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT), Registered
Cardiac Sonographer (RCS), Registered Vascular Specialist (RVS), and
Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS). The ARDMS offers
Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) and Registered Vascular
Technologist (RVT) credentials. Some States require certification as part of
licensure. In other States, certification is not required but many employers
prefer it.
Other qualifications. Cardiovascular technologists and
technicians must be reliable, have mechanical aptitude, and be able to
follow detailed instructions. A pleasant, relaxed manner for putting
patients at ease is an asset. They must be articulate as they must
communicate technically with physicians and also explain procedures simply
to patients.
Advancement. Technologists and technicians can advance to
higher levels of the profession as many institutions structure the
occupation with multiple levels, each having an increasing amount of
responsibility. Technologists and technicians also can advance into
supervisory or management positions. Other common possibilities include
working in an educational setting or conducting laboratory work.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor,
Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition
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