Telemetry Monitor Technician

BASIC FUNCTION: The Monitor Technician is responsible for the direct continuous visualization of the rhythm surveillance monitoring system for patients with a compromised cardiac condition. In addition, the monitor technician is responsible for the documentation and communication of surveillance activities. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Previous experience with nursing unit operations and medical terminology is also required. Previous experience as an EKG Technician, Monitor Technician or direct patient caregiver is preferred. The candidate will be required to successfully complete a critical care program for rhythm detection. This includes how to interface with the central station monitor and arrhythmia detection system. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The position is located indoors under normal working conditions. Should be able to push/pull 25 lb., lift/move 15 lb. from floor to table, be able to perform moderately difficult manual manipulations such as using a key board, writing and filing for extended periods of time, must be able to perform tasks which require hand-eye coordination such as data entry, typing and using photo copiers. Mobility requirements may include the ability to sit at a computer terminal or work station for a prolonged period of time in addition to being able to squat, stand and walk for a reasonable length of time and distance. Sensory requirements include the ability to articulate and comprehend the spoken English language in addition to being able to read the English language. FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE STANDARDS AND RELATED MEASUREMENT CRITERIA: Performance Standards Measurement Criteria A. The Monitor Tech. will provide direct, continuous visualization of rhythm surveillance system. 1. Identifies and communicates the following rhythms: a. Normal Sinus Rhythm b. Sinus Bradycardia c. Sinus Tachycardia d. Sinus Arrhythmia e. Premature Atrial Contractions f. (Paroxysmal) Supraventricular Tachycardia g. Atrial Flutter h. Atrial Fibrillation i. Premature Junctional Contractions j. Junctional Rhythm k. First-Degree AV Block l. Mobitz Type 1 Second-Degree AV Block m. Mobitz Type II Second-Degree AV Block n. Complete Heart Block o. Premature Ventricular Contractions: Bigem/Trigem/Quadragem/Couplets p. Ventricular Tachycardia q. Torsades de points r. Ventricular Fibrillation s. Idioventricular Rhythms t. Asystole u. Pacemaker Rhythms: - pacing with capture - failure to capture - failure to sense - failure to pace 2. Interfaces with monitoring system: a. Locates needed information on the main screen and uses the appropriate Controls b. Locates needed information on the Patient Window and uses the appropriate controls. c. Admits and Discharges patients, and ensures accurate information. d. Manages alarms with nursing, physician approval e. Makes recordings f. Reviews patient data g. Troubleshoots monitoring system 3. Remains watching the monitors at all times. May not leave this duty unless relieved by a qualified staff person. B. The Monitor Tech. will communicate all rate and rhythms to the RN accurately and timely to assure prompt response. 1. Verifies changes in patient's rhythm and communicates to RN caring for patient. 2. Verifies patient age and ensures alarm settings are appropriate for adult patient. Consults with MD/RN prior to changing or disabling alarms. 3. Recognizes appropriate rates and rhythms based upon age of the patient. 4. Interfaces well with the unit staff and telemetry units: a. Verbally b. Telephone c. Executive/Intercom Systems d. Fax e. Beepers f. Walkie-Talkies 5. Knows responsibilities for communi-cating a Code Blue a. Calling a code b. Notifying RN c. Strip recording C. The Monitor Tech. will maintain documentation reflecting the rhythm history of each patient. 1. Inspects and/or measures rhythm strips for: a. P wave presence/absence b. P-P interval duration/regularity c. PR interval duration d. QRS complex duration QT interval duration e. R-R interval duration/regularity f. ectopic complexes or pauses 2. Maintains documentation of patient's rhythms: a. Obtains and logs rhythms for cardiac monitored patients and mounts strips for telemetry patients every four hours and with a change in rate or rhythm b. Documents on Monitor Room Report Sheet (Rhythms) c. Maintains MT Communication Log for all communications with telemetry floors d. Maintains MT Alarm Log for all changes in alarm settings D. The Monitor Tech. will maintain current knowledge and competency in cardiac monitoring and other areas related to the position. 1. Maintains current competency as outlined in monitor tech core competency. 2. Completes all mandatory in-service programs yearly. 3. Completes annual health assessment forms as required, maintains current inoculations. 4. Coordinates with Nurse Manager, Nurse Educator, and CNS in quality improvement efforts related to the cardiac monitoring function. E. Adheres to hospital policies and procedures related to: + mandatory education + annual health assessment 1. Continuing education records will be completed and forwarded to Human Resources annually regarding man-datory educational requirements. 2. Complete annual health assessment form, as required, maintain current inoculations. Salary Range: $15.61-$20.46/hour Pay is based on experience, skills, and education. Exempt positions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) will be paid within the base salary equivalent of the stated hourly rates. The pay range may also vary within the stated range based on location.