Apprentice-Cath Lab

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

          Joy                         Care                      Competence                    Respect

Position Summary

The Apprentice-Cath Lab will be exposed to the clinical setting in the Cath Lab through practical work experience for clinical students in an environment that emphasizes patient-centered care. Under direct supervision will provide support to cath lab staff and physicians during the performance of invasive and diagnostic/interventional cardiac, vascular, neuro and electrophysiology procedures.  The Apprentice-Cath Lab will be trained to assist with monitoring, passing instruments and catheters, observing patient response to procedure, maintaining sterile field, and interpreting and evaluating diagnostic data to be utilized by the physician.

High School Diploma or GED is required.

Actively enrolled in an accredited cardiovascular technology or radiologic technology program is preferred.

1 year of direct patient care experience is preferred.

Must be actively working toward certification or registry as a Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) or Registered Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist (RCES) from Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), OR actively enrolled in a radiologic technology program.

Basic Life Support (BLS) is required within 30 days of employment.

Maintains excellent interpersonal communication with the health care team colleagues.

Demonstrates compliance with National Patient Safety Goals.

Excellent organization skills.

Maintains composure under pressure.

Possesses strong technical aptitude.

Possesses flexibility to work in a fast paced, dynamic environment.

Learns how to prepare the patient for the catheterization and how to pass instruments and catheters during the procedure.

Acquires knowledge of how to interpret arrhythmias and various pressure wave forms, and how to calculate oxygen saturations.

Gains understanding of how to interpret and evaluate hemodynamic data.

Attains skills to operate a variety of complex equipment as delineated by achievement of competency.

Trains with an instructor on special skills and procedures requiring knowledge of sterile technique.

Responsible for assisting with cleaning equipment, assuring maintenance when necessary and testing the equipment prior to actual usage for purposes of quality control.

Provides assistance to physicians or other technologists in the performance of more complex procedures.

Ensures records are maintained on each patient and reported to the nursing unit receiving the patient.

Reports all unusual occurrences or problems to the charge person or facilitator in the absence of the manager.

Possess the information, skill, and understanding of the work to be performed.  Actively participates in continuing education opportunities and maintains certifications, licensure as appropriate.

Reduces the risk of healthcare acquired infections through compliance with current CDC hand hygiene guidelines and facility policies including the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), if applicable.  Utilizes standard precautions during patient contact and when handling contaminated materials.  Demonstrates compliance with National Patient Safety Goals.

Complies with all standards, policies and procedures including dress code, attendance and punctuality.  Attends required in-services and meetings and completes all mandatory competencies by deadline.  Commits to keeping all patient, student or colleague information confidential and maintains excellent interpersonal communication with the health care team colleagues.

Emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care-attending to body, mind, and spirit while upholding ethical principles with patient care and all other aspects of work.  Actively involves the patient and family in decisions about care.  Promotes quality care by participating in organizational councils/committees and/or support of related process.  Documents services provided to patients in the electronic medical record in accordance with policy and requirements. 

The purpose of this job description is to provide a summary of the major responsibilities performed by colleagues in this position. Colleagues may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this job description.  Variances in job duties performed may exist between facilities, and colleagues may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical, Mental and Environmental Requirements Category:

Patient Care Support

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Lifting

X

50 lbs.

Carrying

X

50 lbs.

Pushing

X

50 lbs.

Pulling

X

50 lbs.

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Use of Hands/Dexterity

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

Extreme Cold

X

Extreme Heat

X

Humid

X

Wet

X

Noise

X

Hazards

X

Temperature Change

X

Positions in this category may experience a

temperature change in his/her work environment.

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Vibration

X

Other