Are you fascinated by the complexities of the human heart? Would you like a challenging and fast-paced career on the cutting edge of medical technology? Are you interested in working with people and being a part of their journey to better health? Do you dream of a career where you have the opportunity to make a difference every day?
If so, a career as an invasive cardiovascular technologist may be perfect for you!
Invasive Cardiovascular Technology at a Glance
Looking for a quick overview of the Invasive Cardiovascular Technology program? Take a look at Invasive Cardiovascular Technology at a Glance for a short summary of what an invasive cardiovascular technologist does and the degrees and certificates DCCCD offers.
DCCCD's Invasive Cardiovascular Technology Program
The Invasive Cardiovascular Technology program (ICVT), one of three Specialized Imaging health programs offered through DCCCD’s El Centro College in downtown Dallas, is a challenging, multifaceted course of study designed to produce well-trained, highly qualified medical professionals.
Graduates of our ICVT program consistently perform above the national average on the national board exam. In addition to being prepared to take the registered cardiovascular invasive specialist (RCIS) board, our program graduates are automatically awarded the limited medical radiology technology (LMRT) credential by the Texas State Board of Health.
What Does an Invasive Cardiovascular Technologist Do?
Invasive cardiovascular technologists work in cardiac catheterization laboratories assisting cardiologists to perform complex diagnostic and interventional procedures.
Diagnostic procedures include intracardiac pressure and electrical system assessments, intracardiac blood oxygen saturation determination, vascular angiography (both cardiovascular and peripheral vascular) and measurement/calculation of cardiac function indices. Technologists may also assist in invasive intervention procedures, including intravascular angioplasty and stent placement, cardiac valve repair, congenital (birth) defect repair and cardiac pacemaker insertion.
Also called registered cardiovascular invasive specialist (RCIS) professionals, they assist in all phases of the catheterization procedures, including preparing the sterile procedure field, inserting equipment, operating electronic instruments and calculating diagnostic data acquired, and applying interventional technologies as required.