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CERTIFICATION GUIDE

Certified Cath Lab Tech Certification Guide

Part of the Cath Lab Tech career guide

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A cath lab technician, or cath lab tech, is a specialized healthcare professional who works alongside cardiologists in the cardiac catheterization lab. Cath lab techs are the backbone behind some of the most advanced, high-tech, and life-saving cardiac procedures.

Cath lab techs assist in stent placements, ablations, angiograms, pacemaker placements, and additional cardiac procedures. They prep patients, operate advanced equipment, assist cardiologists, monitor patients, and much more.

Is this the career path for you? Let’s talk about the cath lab tech certifications you need to get started. We’ll go over the degrees and certificates needed and tell you everything you need to know about RCIS certification. Don’t forget to check out our Cath Lab Tech Career Guide and Salary Guide for more information!

General Requirements to Become a Cath Lab Tech

Now, let’s take a closer look at how to become a cath lab tech in the United States and what cath lab technician requirements are necessary. To get started in this field, you will need a high school diploma. Here’s what comes next:

  • Apply for and complete an invasive cardiovascular technology (abbreviated as ICT or ICVT) program. These programs are typically associate degree programs or advanced certificate programs.
  • Your ICT program will include classes in anatomy, physiology, diagnostic and interventional cardiology, and cardiac medications.
  • ICT programs also include significant clinical training to prepare you for your first job as a cath lab tech. Here, you will gain real-life experience in the cath lab as you practice your skills.
  • It typically takes two years to become a cath lab tech through an associate's degree program. Some certificate programs can be completed sooner.

After you have completed an invasive cardiovascular technology program, your next step is to obtain a cardiac cath lab tech certification.

Cath Lab Tech Certifications

Certification and state licensure are different requirements. Your recruiter can confirm the credentials required for an assignment. The credentials below cover different cath lab and imaging specialties.

Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS)

The Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist, or RCIS certification, is a national cardiac cath lab tech certification showing dedication and commitment to your patients and profession. The RCIS exam is a three-hour, 170-question computer-based exam that tests your knowledge of cardiac catheterization procedures.

CCI offers several RCIS eligibility pathways:

  • RCIS235: A health-science certificate or degree, one year of full-time invasive cardiovascular work, and 600 documented cardiac diagnostic/interventional procedures.
  • RCIS4: Graduation from a programmatically accredited invasive cardiovascular technology program.
  • RCIS5: Graduation from a non-programmatically accredited invasive cardiovascular technology program with at least one year of specialty training and 800 clinical hours required by that program. Hours completed after graduation do not count toward this pathway.

Check CCI’s current RCIS requirements for the supporting documents and eligibility route that apply to you.

Cardiac Interventional Radiography

The Cardiac Interventional Radiography (CI) credential is offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). CI uses ARRT’s postprimary pathway: you must first be certified and registered in Radiography, then meet the structured education, clinical experience, ethics, and examination requirements.

Registered Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist (RCES)

The Registered Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist, or RCES certification, is a national certification in the cardiac electrophysiology specialty. The RCES exam is a three-hour, 170-question exam encompassing the fundamental and advanced knowledge of electrophysiology.

Vascular Interventional Radiography (VI)

The Vascular Interventional Radiography (VI) credential is offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Like CI, this postprimary credential requires certification and registration in Radiography first, followed by structured education, clinical experience, ethics, and examination requirements.

Cath Lab Tech Licensure Requirements by State

State licensing requirements depend on the duties you perform and the jurisdiction where you work. Operating radiographic or fluoroscopic equipment may require a radiologic technology license or permit; a national cath lab credential does not by itself authorize practice in every state. ARRT explains the distinction between certification and state licensing. Confirm the requirements for your assignment’s duties with the state regulator and your recruiter. The state links below are a starting point; verify current fees, permits, and renewal rules directly with the regulator.

Washington, D.C.

What Comes Next After Cath Lab Technician Certification?

Once you have obtained your initial certification, you will need to renew your certification based on the requirements of the issuing body. Generally, you can expect to pay a fee to renew your certification and complete continuing education requirements.

This will also be true for your state license if you’re working in a state with a license requirement. You can check in with the state board for their renewal requirements.

Now that you have completed your Invasive Cardiovascular Technology program and gotten certified, it’s time to start looking at cath lab job postings! Cath lab technicians are in high demand and are needed in all areas of the United States.

As a cath lab tech, you are an integral part of a highly specialized team that performs life-saving procedures every day. This career path has its own unique set of challenges, but the rewards are great.

Cath lab techs are also able to take their skills on the road! Travel cath lab technicians are some of the highest-paid and in-demand cath lab techs and are instrumental in ensuring patients receive the specialized cardiac care they need despite local staffing challenges.

Start Your Travel Cath Lab Tech Career with Trusted Health

Embark on your journey in cardiac care as a travel cath lab tech. Trusted Health is here to guide you every step of the way, offering personalized support, streamlined job placement, and valuable resources to empower your career. Embrace the adventure and impact of traveling while providing essential cardiac care where it's needed most.

Sign up today to discover diverse experiences, professional growth, and the joy of making a difference in cardiac care.

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