Exercise Physiologist

4 weeks ago

Harrisburg, United States UPMC Full time

Purpose:

This position performs all relevant duties related to the care and safe performance of patients undergoing Stress Testing (Nuclear, Stress Echo, Treadmill). Will also be involved in patient follow-up of finalized reports.

Responsibilities:

  • Assesses patient's clinical history prior to testing using EMR. Research and documents patient history to include current medications and relevant limitations to safe Nuclear cardiac stress testing.

  • Prepares patients for Nuclear Stress testing by performing basic interview, measures blood pressure and heart rate, performs baseline EKG and assesses hearth and lung sounds.

  • Monitors stress tests, including nuclear medicine stress tests and Stress Echo's.

  • Recognizes physical limitations of the patient as well as symptoms limiting the patient's exercise capacity.

  • Notifies physician of critical abnormalities during stress test.

  • Communicates test results to patients and referring physician.

  • Responds appropriately to life-threatening emergencies by assisting nursing and medical staff in a code situation.

  • Assists in the operation of the external defibrillator and suction equipment as directed by nursing or medical personnel during a code situation.

  • Understands and is proficient in the safe execution of all protocols utilizing treadmill stress testing and pharmacological stress testing. Operates and troubleshoots EKG machines and treadmill stress equipment.

  • Understands the pharmacological effects of medications utilized in nuclear stress testing and antidotes which may be required to counteract these effects.

  • Understands radioactive decay and radiopharmaceutical biodistribution as they relate to nuclear stress testing.

  • Adheres to all HIPAA guidelines and regulations.

  • Attends job related in-services and seminars as necessary. Completes duties relating to accreditation as assigned.

  • Minimum of MS in Exercise Science (or its equivalent).

  • Knowledge of Cardiac A&P, Coronary Artery Disease, Coronary Risk Factors.

  • Skilled in the operation of stress testing equipment and in the recognition of normal and abnormal EKG tracings.

  • Maintenance of CE as required by Accreditation and/or licensing bodies.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) OR Basic Life Support (BLS)

  • Act 34 with renewal.

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran