Stress Test Technician

Description

Position at Northern Dutchess Hospital

Purpose: Responsible for using diagnostic medical equipment to diagnose various medical conditions. Diagnostic testing includes, but is not limited to; stress testing, nuclear stress testing, stress echo, and halter monitor application, removal and scanning.

Essential Responsibilities:

1. Review patient's medical history and physician's instructions. Ensure that there is an order for the test to be done.

2. Properly explain procedure to the patient and answer any questions patient may have.

3. Prepare diagnostic rooms and equipment (i.e. treadmills, computers, holter monitors) for clinical use.

4. Operate diagnostic equipment properly and safely in accordance with policies and procedures.

5. Ensure that patient is as comfortable as possible. Maintain contact with patient during test

6. Demonstrates accuracy in monitoring and recording vital signs and patient response to testing.

7. Promptly recognize and assist to treat complications of stress testing or other diagnostic procedures. Activate emergency protocol as needed.

8. Comply with TJC and NYS DOH requirements. Cover other sites as needed.

9. Work with nuclear radioisotopes. Practice ALARA.

10. Follow infection control protocols. Participate in quality assurance/improvement program.

11. Comply with direction given by Nursing Supervisor.

12. Performs noninvasive interrogation of cardiac implanted devices and records data for interpretation by nurse practitioner.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Completion of an arrhythmia recognition course.

• Must possess extensive knowledge of 12 lead ECGs and have the ability to recognize cardiac arrhythmias.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Requirements:

• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, patient care, and medical ethics.

• Knowledge of safety, infection control, and quality improvement practices.

• Knowledge of cardiovascular/exercise physiology.

• Knowledge of principle and details of stress testing, including proper lead placement and skin prep.

• Knowledge of cardiac arrhythmias and the ability to recognize arrhythmias.

• Knowledge of cardiovascular drugs and how they affect exercise performance, hemodynamics and ECG.

• Knowledge of various stress testing protocols and indications.

• Skill in communication and interpersonal interactions.

• Skill in administering patient care in emergent and non-emergent situations.

• Skill in gathering and analyzing patient data.

• Ability to work effectively independently and as a team member.

• Ability to explain technical procedures to patients in patient-friendly manner.

• Ability to calm patients who may be nervous about the procedure.

• Ability to use correct body mechanics to assist patients appropriately.

License, Registration, or Certification Requirements:

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

• PREFER: Cardiographic technician Certification (CCT).

Working Conditions:

Manual: Some manual skills/motor coord & finger dexterity

Occupational: Some occupational risk

Physical Effort: Medium to Heavy effort. May exert up to 35 lbs. force

Physical Environment: Some exposure to dirt, odors, noise, human waste, etc.

Company: Northern Dutchess Hospital

Org Unit: 953

Department: Rhinebeck Clinical

Exempt: No

Salary Range: $18.39 - $34.14 Hourly

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