Cardiology Technologist
Cardiology Technologists perform cardiology tests to provide information needed to assist physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease.
An Exciting Field of Work
In general, Cardiology Technologists:
- Perform cardiovascular procedures and tests, such as electrocardiograms, ambulatory monitoring and pacemaker analysis
- Prepare patients for testing
- Provide explanations to patients or family and clarifies procedural requirements for various tests
- Assist with exercise tolerance tests
- Perform initial interpretation of tracings, and Immediately notify physicians when they recognize life-threatening arrhythmias (heartbeats)
- Ensure patient comfort and safety during tests
- Provide results of diagnostic procedures for physician interpretation
- Inspect related medical equipment and performs maintenance and troubleshooting by cleaning and replacing items such as paper rolls, pens, electrodes
Personal Characteristics / Skills
- Mature and self-confident
- Emotionally stable
- Understanding and Patience
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Able to think and act quickly and appropriately in high stress/emergency situations
Education and Training
A college diploma in Cardiology Technology or Cardiovascular Technician program followed by supervised practical training.
Education program offered in New Brunswick
A Cardiology Technology program is offered in New Brunswick by the following educational institution:
- Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick (CCNB) – French program
Length of Study / Training
1.5 - 2.0 years
Licence and certification
In New Brunswick, Cardiology Technologists must be registered with the New Brunswick Society of Cardiology Technologists and pass the Canadian Society of Cardiology Technologist National Exam.
Helpful High School Courses
- Biology
- Math
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer related courses
Employment and Common Working Conditions
Cardiology Technologists work in a variety of settings such as:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Cardiac rehabilitation centres
Cardiology Technologists often work irregular hours; they may work shifts that include evenings, nights, weekends and holidays. They spend most of their time on their feet and may be expected to help lift and move patients from wheelchairs to beds.
Employment Prospects - GOOD
Our growing and aging population will require more cardiovascular tests in the years to come. With technology producing more and better tests to diagnose disease, we can expect demand for this position to grow.