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A cardiovascular technologist assists physicians by performing diagnostic tests to determine how well the heart and blood vessels function. They prepare patients for tests and monitor patients’ blood pressure and heart rate, reviewing and/or recording pertinent patient information. They may also conduct or assist in electrocardiograms, cardiac catheterizations, pulmonary functions, lung capacity, and similar tests.
Most cardiovascular technologists work in hospital cardiology departments, while some work in cardiologists’ offices and cardiac rehabilitation centers.
Technologists and technicians generally work a 5-day, 40-hour week that may include weekends. Those in catheterization labs tend to work longer hours and may work evenings. They may also be on call during the night and on weekends.
Other workplace settings:
$71,000
The BLS reports overall employment of medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians is projected to grow 14 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 12,000 openings for medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Although most cardiovascular technologists are currently trained on the job, an increasing number receive training in 2 to 4 year programs.
Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.
Alliance of Cardiovascular Professionals
PO Box 2007
Midlothian, VA 23113
(804) 639-9213
www.acp-online.org
American Society of Echocardiography
2530 Meridian Parkway, Suite 450
Durham, NC 27713
(919) 861-5574
www.asecho.org