The mission of the Invasive Cardiovascular Technology program is to provide educational opportunities for students to develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes conducive to the challenges within the field of Invasive Cardiology. Experiences prepare students to practice effectively with clients who have diverse cardiovascular health needs.

The Invasive Cardiovascular Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org), on recommendation of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Cardiovascular Technology (www.jrccvt.org).

JRC-CVT
6 Pine Knoll Drive
Beverly, MA 01915-1425
(978) 456-5594

Graduates are eligible to apply for the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) exam through Cardiac Credentialing International at www.cci-online.org

Where do they work?
Working in the cardiac catheterization laboratory, the technologist assists the physician in  utilizing x-ray and monitoring equipment in performing invasive  diagnostic tests to determine the condition of the patient's heart. Additionally, interventional techniques such as balloon angioplasty and pacemaker implantation may be performed to treat existing cardiac conditions.

What are they paid?
We recommend that prospective students refer to local health care employers for earning potential in their region.  For a national overview of potential earnings, we recommend the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook found in the local library or visit their website.

Purpose
The Invasive Cardiovascular Technology Program purpose is to prepare individuals for an entry-level position in the field of cardiovascular diagnostic medicine. Within the stimulating college environment, the student will be afforded the opportunity to achieve educational and personal growth goals while developing the technical skills necessary for success as a professional Invasive Cardiovascular Technologist. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the national certification examination – Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS).

Objectives / Goals
The technical and inter-personal abilities of the graduate Invasive cardiovascular student will enable the health care delivery team to improve community health services and provide upward mobility for career development.

The goals of the Invasive Cardiovascular Technology program are to develop a graduate who is able to:

1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the development and growth of the health care industry with specific reference to cardiovascular imaging modalities.
2. Develop basic patient care skills that are appropriate for successful functioning as an Invasive Cardiovascular Technologist.
3. Develop communication skills for interacting with patients, peers, other health care professionals, and society.
4. Develop an understanding of the biological effects of radiation on humans and utilize the appropriate radiation protective equipment, measures, and recording instruments and/or specific Invasive Cardiovascular procedures.
5. Develop the skills and/or the proper handling and processing of digital recording materials.
6. Demonstrate knowledge of basic cardiovascular positioning. Demonstrate the skills for basic cardiovascular procedures and examinations.
7. Demonstrate knowledge of the composition and appropriate utilization of radiographic contrast media and cardiology medicines.
8. Demonstrate knowledge of the theories of invasive cardiovascular services.
9. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the pathological process and the common pathology demonstrated by cardiovascular procedures and imaging.
10. Demonstrate and understand the basic organization and operation of a Cardiovascular Technology Department.

Technical Standards

Candidates eligible for the Invasive Cardiovascular Program must be able to meet the following technical standards. These standards specify the skills necessary for successful completion of the program and subsequent employment as an Invasive Cardiovascular Technologist.

1. Sufficient upper and lower body coordination to safely handle equipment used in the cardiac cath lab, as well as assist in transferring and transporting patients. Lift a minimum of 20 – 50 pounds and to stoop, bend, or promptly assist patients that are unstable in addition to performing CPR.
2. Fine manual dexterity to manipulate catheters and guide wires.
3. Visual acuity to observe the ECG/hemodynamic monitor, CRT screens at a distance.
4. Hearing acute enough to clearly distinguish vocal commands in a noisy environment and in which the speakers mouths are often covered with masks.
5. Touch discrimination to discern veins and arteries.
6. Able and willing to work with blood and with organisms that may be infectious.
7. Assume the risk of exposure to ionizing radiation; that risk is minimal, however, as long as the student observes proper radiation safety precautions.
8. Emotional stability required for full utilization of his / her intellectual abilities.
9. Able to work accurately and safely under stress, eg., work under time constraints, read and record numbers accurately; perform repetitive evaluations and decisions where mistakes may have a higher impact on patient care.
10. Able to adapt to changing environments and be able to prioritize tasks.
11. Able to communicate effectively in written and spoken English in order to transmit information to members of the health care team.
12. Ability to make a correct judgment in seeking supervisory help and consultation in a timely manner.
13. Possess attributes that include integrity, responsibility, and tolerance.
14. Show respect for self and others.
15. Work independently as well as with others.
16. Project an image of professionalism.
17. Work in a clinical setting for eight (8) to ten (10) hours performing physical tasks requiring physical energy without jeopardizing patient safety, stand in place for long periods of time.
18. Must be physically free of illegal drugs and alcohol.

Students with a disability should declare the disability and provide verification to the Director of Invasive Cardiovascular Technology so that reasonable accommodations, if possible, can be made.