7.2 Cardiovascular Technologist
Brandon Censon MPH, CPH, RRT-NPS, CPFT, CPT
A cardiovascular technologist (CVT), also referred to as a vascular or cardiovascular technician, is a professional who uses medical imaging equipment, such as ultrasound, to assess the heart for conditions that may impair its function. These conditions may involve issues with the heart’s valves or the vessels that carry blood to and from the heart. The cardiovascular technician is often responsible for preparing the patient and equipment for a given procedure. Beforehand, CVTs collect vital signs and record a brief patient history. During a procedure, they may also operate some of the necessary equipment. Cardiovascular technologists work closely with physicians, often assisting them in surgical suites during various procedures.
Disease Dissection: Mitral Valve Regurgitation
Mitral valve regurgitation is a common heart condition that affects the mitral valve, located on the left side of the heart between the left atrium and left ventricle. This condition occurs when blood from the left ventricle leaks back into the left atrium during contraction of the left ventricle (Mount Sinai, 2016). As the blood leaks back into the left atrium, the pressure in the atrium and the pulmonary veins (the vessels that carry blood from the lungs to the heart) rises. Over time, this elevated pressure can cause fluid to accumulate in the lungs.
Mitral valve regurgitation often begins mildly and progresses slowly. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, irregular heart beat, swelling in the feet and ankles, and heart palpitations.
Treating mitral valve regurgitation may involve medications or more invasive procedures, such as surgery. In cases of severe regurgitation, a procedure known as heart catheterization may be performed, where a catheter is used to repair or replace the mitral valve. A cardiovascular technologist prepares the sterile equipment and catheter for these procedures.
Academic Requirements and Career Pathway
The academic requirements for cardiovascular technologists include the completion of an associate degree program that includes didactic training and hands-on clinical training. After completing the associate degree, students may take certification exams from either Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). Students can also pursue a bachelor’s degree, which may make them more competitive and lead to higher salaries.
The career pathway for cardiovascular technologists is divided into four main specialty areas:
- Cardiology technologists assist physicians during catheter implant procedures.
- Echocardiography technologists use ultrasound equipment to evaluate a patient’s heart.
- Electrocardiography technologists perform cardiac stress tests, conduct EKGs, and fit patients for holter monitors.
- Vascular technologists assist physicians in evaluating a patient’s blood flow and detecting abnormalities.
Known as an Electrocardiogram. A device that records the electrical signals from the heart. It is often used to evaluate heart conditions.
A portable EKG device that attaches to a patient for long term cardiac monitoring while outside of a clinic.