Quickest HealthCare Degrees
   
 
CARDIOVASCULAR TECHNICIAN (quick healthcare degrees)
 
   
 
 
Heart health is important, and like any area of healthcare, cardiologists rely on the help provided to them by their employees to make sure that patients are treated quickly and properly to diagnose any heart and blood vessel problems they may have. That's why Cardiovascular Technicians are key to the efficiency of a cardiologist's practice. And if you're interested in helping people's heart health, a quick healthcare degree as a Cardiovascular Technician may be for you.  
 
 
 

 

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What is a Cardiovascular Technician?
 
  A Cardiovascular Technician, also known as a Cardiovascular Tech or Cardio Tech, is someone who works under the direction of cardiologists to diagnose heart and blood vessel problems. There are four areas of specialization for Cardiovascular Technicians.

If you specialize in electrocardiography, you would perform electrocardiograms (EKGs), equip patients with Holter monitors, and run stress tests. These specialists are called EKG Technicians. With a specialization in cardiology, you would assist doctors who implant cardiac catheters. Cardiovascular Technicians who specialize in echocardiography use ultrasound machines to view patients' hearts. And those who specialize in vascular technology evaluate abnormalities in blood flow.

Most Cardiovascular Technicians work in hospitals, but there are also clinics and cardiology centers that provide variety in work environment. You're most likely to work a typical 40-hour work week, but there may be weekend shifts or “on call” shifts, as well.

On average, a Cardiovascular Technician earns between $35,000 and $45,000 annually.
 
 
 
How do I become a Cardiovascular Technician?
 
  Most Cardiovascular Technicians complete their quick healthcare degrees in two-year programs, earning their Associate's degrees. These programs cover a range of courses from basic biology and anatomy to more specialized courses specific to cardiology. If you already have training as an allied health professional, you're likely to only need one year of training.

Your specific education and qualifications can also affect how long it takes to earn your quick healthcare degree as a Cardiovascular Technician.
 
 
 
What are the benefits and drawbacks of a career as a Cardiovascular Technician?
 
  One of the benefits of a career as a Cardiovascular Technician is the direct affect you have on patient care. You perform tests and work with cardiologists to diagnose and treat patients with heart and blood vessel problems, so there is no question about how much of an impact you're having on the patients. It can be very rewarding to know that you're working so closely with doctors to help patients.

One of the drawbacks of a career as a Cardiovascular Technician is that it can be physically tiring. You're likely to be on your feet for most of the day, lifting or moving heavy equipment, and even lifting or helping to move patients. Some employers may even have a minimum requirement for how much weight you're able to lift and carry, which is something to keep in mind if you're considering a career as a Cardiovascular Technician.
 
 
 
     
   
     
   
     
 
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