- Although educational requirements for technicians vary from employer to employer, post-secondary education beyond a high school diploma or GED is generally necessary. The majority of technicians, roughly 58 percent, have a two-year associate degree, according to the Occupational Information Network. Approximately 23 percent have some college training, but no degree; such technicians often hold diplomas or certificates from community and private vocational colleges or hospital training programs. Another 10 percent of cardiovascular technicians have earned four-year bachelor's degrees. The Commission on Allied Health Education Programs accredits cardiovascular technician programs in the United States. As of 2010, 32 schools had accredited programs.
- Most employers prefer to hire cardiovascular technicians who have earned voluntary professional certification. The American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers offers the Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer for technicians who perform echocardiogram tests, which use sound waves to produce images of the heart. The Cardiovascular Credentialing International offers eight levels of certification, including designations for echocardiographers as well as for technicians who perform invasive tests like heart catheterizations. Requirements for both ARDMS and CCI certifications vary, but passing a written examination is generally necessary.
- To work in the field, cardiovascular technicians must learn to use specific types of equipment. Measuring the electrical activity of the heart requires the ability to use an electrocardiogram or EKG machine. Echocardiographers must operate sonography equipment, which involves holding a wand-like object called a transducer. Invasive cardiographers need the ability to operate heart catheters, pacemakers and caval filters. Technicians often clean the equipment they work with and may perform routine maintenance as needed. When the equipment malfunctions, technicians must know how to troubleshoot problems and make basic repairs.
- Cardiovascular technicians must possess additional skills and abilities for success in their jobs. Technicians must have the ability to communicate verbally with patients to explain procedures, answer questions and provide instructions throughout tests. They must also possess reading comprehension skills to interpret the written orders of physicians and perform testing as specified. Technicians must typically have the ability to use medical records database, image processing and email software programs.