ECG Hospital Lab Tech

JOB SUMMARY

Works under the direct supervision of the Manager of Cardiology Diagnostics to assist in the accomplishment of the laboratory objectives including: cardiac stress testing, device application, ECG acquisition, scheduling, and other clerical duties. Provides guidance, expertise and support to other hospital lab technician staff in providing and coordinating stress testing services with the Nuclear Medicine and Echo Departments at all sites. Functions as a resource to the Nurse Practitioner/Nursing staff and Medical Director of the ECG Lab. Performs complex cardiac stress testing under the direction of a clinical provider (i.e. RN, NP, or MD).

• Assists with the performance of cardiac stress tests including advanced monitoring, such as metabolic gases, with NP/physician/advanced practice nurse in attendance according to department procedures. 

• Prepares patients for testing and ensures that service expectations meet or exceed customer expectations including correctly placing electrodes on patient for monitoring during stress test studies.

• Orders the medical and non-medical supplies used in the cardiac stress lab.
• Communicates with Clinical Technologies regarding the performance of the treadmill and other utilized equipment. 
• Performs 12 and/or 15 lead electrocardiograms from hospital in-patient units and out-patient sites by use of electrocardiogram machines. Applies and instructs patients on Holter monitors, cardiac event devices, and ambulatory blood pressure monitors according to department standards. 
• Obtains patient vital signs utilizing automated equipment. During testing, recognizes complex or potentially life-threatening arrhythmias. Communicates often and clearly with the supervising RN/NP during the exam. 
• Edits electrocardiograms and submits ECG for final reading. 
• Maintains current knowledge of Medical Center Code Blue procedures.
• Operate, maintain and troubleshoot complex medical equipment including; treadmills and monitors and metabolic analysis carts. Performs daily cleaning of stress lab equipment and room.
• May perform analyzation of Holter recordings and event monitor transmissions:
  • Applies theoretical knowledge to identify and quantify recorded arrhythmias.
  • Checks accuracy of analysis.
  • Recognizes complex dysrhythmias and brings them to the attention of the RN or MD.
  • Responds to emergency calls.
• Partners with the Nuclear Medicine Department daily to coordinate scheduling of Nuclear stress test studies and coordinates with patient care unit staff to schedule regular treadmills and treadmill echos for inpatients.
• Demonstrates leadership skills and the ability to interact appropriately with patients and other staff.
• Explain stress acquisition system and/or processed data to faculty, house staff, fellows and visitors.
• Instructs patients on the use of Holter monitors/other cardiac event devices and assists in preliminary interpretation.
• Provide training for other technicians and students. 
• Performs daily check of emergency equipment/supplies (i.e. crash cart) under the direction of the NP.
• Works with Management and department leadership in establishing quality controls, collection of quality assurance data, and disseminating appropriate information to medical staff when necessary.
• Works with other departments to ensure quality testing services are maintained.
• Responsible for ECG archive system duties including:
  • Processing of stress tests
  • Printing unconfirmed reports
  • Editing and electronic transmission
• Adheres to policies and procedures for the technical and clinical operation of the department.
• Participates in the collection and reporting of Quality Improvement data. Assists in research projects as appropriate.

Required qualifications: 

• Minimum of 3 years experience as a Stress Testing or related cardiovascular medical technician. 

• Completion of a Cardiovascular Technician Training program or equivalent. 

• Training in ECG interpretation and analysis. 

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Previous work experience using personal computer applications. Ability to operate computer-based stress testing equipment.

Required licensures: 

• Current American Heart Association ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) 
• Current American Heart Association BLS