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The profession suits individuals with initiative and
endeavour, who have a careful and analytical approach to
work and can perform well as part of a team.
Good communication
skills, requiring a sympathetic, supportive and professional
approach, are essential to gain patients' co-operation and
confidence.
This specialty is under continual review, developing and
adapting new techniques for patient diagnosis and treatment.
Cardiac Technologists and Technicians have a professional
responsibility to maintain skill levels and keep up-to-date with
advances in technology; therefore, independent learning ability
and self-motivation are important attributes.
Education and Training
Cardiac Technologist
Prerequisite
A relevant Bachelor of Science or Applied Science, eg.
BAppSci in Biophysics at Swinburne University.
In-service Training
On-the-job training may be supplemented by courses such as,
for example, the Mayfield Education Centre, where a three-year,
part-time certificate course in Cardiac Technology is currently
offered. Other courses in subjects such as Echocardiography, are
being developed. Training opportunities vary within individual
departments.
On-going education
The professional body, the Association of Cardiac Technology
in Victoria incorporated (ACTIV), organises several educational
meetings each year and keeps members informed of relevant
educational seminars and programs. Affiliate membership of The
Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ) is
encouraged; an educational Affiliate program is run at the
annual CSANZ Scientific Meeting. A post-graduate Diploma in
Cardiac Ultrasound is offered by the Australasian Society for
Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM) and the Queensland University of
Technology.
Cardiac Technician
Prerequisite
VCE with sciences.
In-service Training
On-the-job training similar to a Technologist, though the
tasks are less complex in nature with generally the first year
of the Mayfield course required.
On-going education
The professional body, the Association of Cardiac Technology
in Victoria incorporated (ACTIV), organises several educational
meetings each year and keeps members informed of relevant
educational seminars and programs. Affiliate membership of The
Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ) is
encouraged; an educational Affiliate program is run at the
annual CSANZ Scientific Meeting. A post-graduate Diploma in
Cardiac Ultrasound is offered by the Australasian Society for
Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM).
Tests and Procedures
These can be divided into non-invasive and invasive.
Non-invasive are performed in an office or laboratory. Invasive
procedures require a sterile, theatre-like environment where a
Cardiologist may, for example, insert thin tubes or catheters
into blood vessels, or implant a pacemaker. All technical
personnel must be trained in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation
techniques and operation of emergency life-saving equipment. The
range of services vary depending on each hospital and practice
type and are outlined below.
* generally performed by Cardiac Technician
# generally performed by Cardiac Technologist
Non-invasive Testing
*# Electrocardiography (EGG)
An ECG is a recording of the electrical activity of the
heart, usually printed onto paper. This recording is taken via
electrodes positioned at specific sites on the limbs and chest.
The heart rate is measured and the ECG pattern and rhythm
interpreted. ECG recognition and interpretation are essential
skills for all cardiac technical personnel.
*# Ambulatory Monitoring
To investigate possible heart rhythm changes, the mobile
(ambulant) patient is fitted with a portable device which,
usually over a 24 hour period, records the ECG via a cable
attached to electrodes on the patient's chest. The recording,
generally stored on tape, is analysed on a computerised system
with any symptoms taken into account. Ambulatory blood pressure
(EP) recording can be performed in a similar manner.
*# Exercise ECG Stress Testing
A treadmill, or occasionally a fixed bicycle, may be used to
investigate causes of exercise-induced symptoms such as chest
pain. Heart rate, ECG pattern and blood pressure are monitored
during a programmed exercise stress test and during the
following recovery phase. This can be a screening test to
determine the need for further investigations.
# Echocardiography
Cardiac ultrasound or Echocardiography (echo) is performed to
assess the heart's function or to investigate a murmur. An echo
is a series of ultrasound images displaying the structure,
motion and blood-flow of the heart and great vessels. Most
routine trans-thoracic echo is performed by a Technologist who
records selected real-time images on to video tape for later
review. Technologist's must be accredited with the Australian
Sonographer Accreditation Registry.
A Cardiologist may also attend the examination to confirm
significant findings. Echocardiography at rest and after
exercise testing (stress-echo) is performed at a growing number
of centres. The high level of technical skill, together with
prerequisite knowledge, the ability to work independently and
decision-making responsibility, make Echocardiography a most
demanding specialty.
Invasive Procedures
These procedures are carried out in a cardiac catheterisation
laboratory (a theatre-like environment); using local anaesthesia
and sterile techniques, a small skin puncture is made, enabling
catheters to be inserted into blood vessels. A specialised X-ray
imaging system guides positioning of catheters within the heart
whilst ECG and blood pressure is monitored; emergency equipment
is always at hand. The following are generally performed in the
cardiac catheter laboratory.
*# Pacemaker Implant/Testing
A pacemaker is an implantable electronic device, which
stimulates the heart and restores a normal rate when, for
example, an extremely slow heart rate causes symptoms such as
fainting.
The Cardiologist positions the pacemaker wire (or lead) into
a vein which leads to the heart. After several test measurements
are taken, the lead is attached to the pacemaker which is then
implanted under the skin, usually in the upper chest.
Regular attendance at an out-patient clinic is necessary to
assess pacemaker function and, in consultation with the
Cardiologist, any necessary adjustments are made by the
Technologist with computerised equipment.
# Cardiac Catheterisation
This procedure is used to view the heart's own blood vessels,
the coronary arteries, and to measure pressures within the
heart's chambers. The Cardiologist may carry out a variety of
therapies, after specific images and blood pressure recordings
are taken. ECG and BP monitoring and recording are performed by
the Technologist, who may also be required to assist with the
procedure.
# Electrophysiology Studies (EPS)
An EP study can be used to diagnose and treat abnormal heart
rhythms. The Cardiologist obtains EGG recordings from specific
sites within the heart using carefully positioned electrodes.
The Technologist uses a computerised system to record specific
EGG data helping in diagnosis and successful treatment carried
out by the Cardiologist.
The ability to quickly recognise changes in heart rhythm and
act promptly, as required, are necessary skills. An interim
report, taken from stored data, may be made by the Technologist.
# Cardiac Research
The experienced and skilled Technologist may apply many of
the described techniques in research projects, eg. to
investigate the effects of cardiovascular drugs, to evaluate new
techniques, or to measure blood flow.
Working Conditions
-
Typically, Monday to Friday, 38-hour week with one
rostered day-off per month.
-
Career structure for Technologists offers Grade I, 2 and 3 plus Chief grades
(see Salary Guide).
-
Participation in an out-of-hours on-call roster may apply.
-
Casual and part-time work is available.
Salary Guide
Cardiac Technicians: approximately $17,000 - to $ 30,000
Cardiac Technologists: approximately $25,000 - to $50,000+
(at chief grade levels).
Sessional or per-test rates apply in private
practice and casual work.
Employment Opportunities
-
All large metropolitan public hospitals, major
regional, and many private centres, have cardiac investigation
units.
-
Advertisements for vacancies appear in the
Hospital/Medical section of major newspapers.
-
Direct enquiries may be made to Chief
Technologists of Cardiology Departments.
When available, ACTIV will post specific
employment opportunities here. If you would like to use this web
site advertise a
vacancy here please email details to
info@activinc.org.au.
Cardiac Technologist
- Austin Health
Department/Unit: Cardiology Austin Health
Sub Title/Status: Permanent, Full Time
A unique opportunity exists for an
experienced Electrophysiology technologist to become
part of a dynamic team. The position requires an
applicant with suitable leadership qualities. Additional
benefits include salary packaging, research and
conference attendance.
Grade 3 Cardiac Technologist (above award payment
depending on experience)
EPS Clinical Specialist
The Cardiology Department at Austin Health has a
vacancy for an EPS Clinical Specialist , who would be
appointed to the role in the capacity of the Deputy
Chief Cardiac Technologist.
Enquiries and
Position Description contact:
Yvette Murray,
Chief Cardiac Technologist
Phone 9496 5642/3819
Email yvette.murray@austin.org.au
Cardiac Technologist
- Melbourne Health
Electrophysiology Lab
- Based at The Royal Melbourne Hospital –
Parkville location
- Part Time or Full Time position available
- Fantastic benefits, including salary packaging
available
Melbourne Health is a leading health care provider
serving metropolitan and country Victorians through the
provision of acute, sub-acute and community based
programs. With an international reputation in health
care, research and education, Melbourne Health employs
more than 7,000 staff in the acute, sub acute and
community sectors and has an annual operating budget in
excess of $680 million.
The Cardiology Department provides care to emergency
and elective patients with heart disease including
ischaemic heart disease, heart failure and valvular
heart disease. Major areas of activity include the
treatment of patients with adult congenital cardiac
disease and cardiac surgery. It is a world-renowned
centre in treatment of cardiac arrhythmias.
We are currently seeking a Grade 2 or 3 Cardiac
Technologist to join our busy and well-supported team of
professionals. You will be working in the cardiac
catheter laboratories and electrophysiology
laboratories. Experience in Cardiac Catheter Laboratory
is essential but training in Electrophysiology can be
supplied. There is opportunity for involvement in
teaching and research.
To be successful in this role you will be required to
have a Bachelor of Applied Science or equivalent and
have previous experience as a cardiac technologist
including cardiac catheter laboratory. This is a
fantastic opportunity for an experienced Grade 2 or
Grade 3 cardiac technologist to join the EP unit of a
leading Cardiac Department in one of Melbourne’s main
hospitals. Opportunities for professional development,
training and career advancement also exist at Melbourne
Health.
Enquiries: Ms Shannon Watt
Ph: (03) 9342 7133
Applications Close: 15th August 2008
View position description and submit your application
ONLINE:
www.mh.org.au Click on Careers/Job Search, go
directly to vacancy via Search function and Enter Ref No
34921
Applicants may be required to undergo a national
police records check
Further Enquiries
Secretary
Association of Cardiac Technology in Victoria Inc.
GPO Box 2359
Melbourne VIC 3001
Page
last updated
November 12, 2008.
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