Cardiac Electrophysiology Technologist
The Cardiac Electrophysiology Technologist student is trained to recognize normal and abnormal 12-lead electrocardiograms and interpret recordings as they relate to heart disease such as bradyarrhythmias, tachyarrhythmias, heart block, chamber enlargement and myocardial infarction. Student will learn the standard protocols utilized during an electrophysiology study and the procedures related to cardiac EP catheter placement when an arrhythmia is induced or during a spontaneous occurrence.
The core courses in the Cardiac Electrophysiology Technologist Program include a foundation in anatomy, physiology & pathology, basic and advanced electrocardiography, physics, pharmacology, I.V. administration, and vital signs.
As the student progresses through the specialized courses in Cardiac EP, focus is placed on sterile technique and radiation safety, cardiac pathology, basic hemodynamics, cardiac pharmacology, and advanced ECG which concentrates on lethal arrhythmia recognition and intervention. In addition, principles of cardiac electrophysiology, pacemakers, and implantable cardioverter defibrillators are thoroughly reviewed to reinforce the understanding of cardiac rhythm and arrhythmias. Special attention is given to monitoring systems, measurement of intervals, mapping and navigational systems, ablation techniques and tilt table testing. Student will learn to identify atrial and ventricular study components, programmed electrical stimulation, sinus node recovery time, measurement of intervals and catheter location during this program. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is presented according to the guidelines of the American Heart Association.
The off-campus clinical rotation is an integral part of the training program. Student is assigned to a school-approved hospital site during the fourth quarter and maintains a clinical rotation for the remainder of the program.
The student's performance of the program objectives is closely monitored by the school’s Education Department, Program Supervisor, and hospital preceptor. Site visits to hospitals are conducted on a regular basis by school clinical site coordinator to assess the satisfactory progress of the student.
Due to the technical nature of this program, students must have prior allied health training, clinical work experience and college credits in anatomy & physiology, math, and science. Class size is limited to assure close supervision during classroom and clinical training.
The knowledge and skills acquired in this program prepare students for responsible career entry positions with advancement opportunities in hospitals and other related healthcare facilities. There is a widespread demand for competent Cardiac Electrophysiology Technologists.