Cardiovascular Technology

Cardiovascular technology certificate programs can prepare students for entry-level positions performing non-invasive and invasive cardiovascular testing. Many programs include certification exam preparation.

Essential Information
Cardiovascular technology certificate programs teach skills needed to assist physicians in diagnostic cardiographic procedures. Students in these programs can also learn to diagnose, evaluate, and treat patients with cardiac diseases. They usually study anatomy of the heart as well as medical terminology and the use of medical equipment.

Program Levels in Cardiovascular Technology: Certificate
Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent
Program Length: 1 year
Other Requirements: Clinical practices
Program Coursework
Physiology, lab assisting, and EKG test analysis are areas that might be covered in a cardiovascular technology certificate program. Students may also prepare to take certification exams, such as the Electrocardiograph Technician exam administered by the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT). Other than the cardiac cycle, some specific courses in these programs might include:

Legal aspects of patient care
Echocardiology
Sinus rhythm/bradycardis/tachycardia
Respiratory therapy
Fundamentals of healthcare
Life support