Cath Lab Technician - IR

Community Health Systems•Birmingham, AL

About The Position

The Cath Lab Technician assists physicians during cardiac catheterization and other interventional procedures to diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions. The role supports the effective operation of the cardiac catheterization laboratory by preparing and maintaining equipment, monitoring patients, and upholding patient-care and safety standards. The technician prepares patients and the laboratory for procedures, assists physicians with specialized equipment, monitors and documents patient vital signs, and reports abnormalities. The role also includes procedure documentation, adherence to radiation-safety and infection-control protocols, assisting with contrast media and medication administration under physician direction, routine equipment maintenance and troubleshooting, and post-procedural patient care and instructions. The technician participates in quality-improvement activities and helps maintain accreditation standards. Regular and reliable attendance and compliance with policies and standards are required.

Requirements

1–2 years of experience in a Cardiac Cath Lab or cardiovascular diagnostic setting.
Proficiency in cardiovascular diagnostic and interventional procedures, equipment use, and patient monitoring.
Proficient understanding of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and related medical terminology.
Excellent communication skills for collaboration with healthcare teams and interaction with patients.
Ability to maintain focus in a fast-paced environment and respond quickly to emergencies.
CVT (Cardiovascular Tech), CRT (Certified Radiologic Technologist), or RN (Registered Nurse) state licensure and/or compact state licensure required.
BCLS (Basic Life Support) required within the first 30 days of employment.
In Arkansas, an active and unencumbered Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) certification or equivalent certification is required.

Nice To Haves

ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support).
ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists).

Responsibilities

Prepare the cardiac catheterization laboratory and ensure necessary equipment and supplies are available and functioning properly.
Assist physicians during procedures by operating specialized equipment, including fluoroscopy machines, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), and hemodynamic monitoring systems.
Monitor patients’ vital signs during procedures, document data, and promptly report abnormalities to the physician or clinical team.
Prepare patients for procedures by positioning and draping them and explaining the process.
Document procedures, patient data, and equipment usage accurately and completely in accordance with departmental policies.
Follow radiation-safety protocols and infection-control guidelines.
Assist with administering contrast media and medications under the physician’s direction.
Participate in quality-improvement activities and help maintain Cath Lab accreditation standards.
Conduct routine maintenance and troubleshoot Cath Lab equipment to ensure proper functionality and minimize downtime.
Provide post-procedural care and instructions, collaborating with the healthcare team to support recovery and follow-up care.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
Comply with all policies and standards.