Bachelor of Science in Invasive Cardiovascular Technology (ICVT)

Program Overview

The Invasive Cardiovascular Technology (ICVT) program educates students to operate sophisticated imaging and monitoring equipment, assist with surgical procedures, and provide patient care in a sterile environment. The program emphasizes clinical competence, problem-solving skills, effective communication, and professional development within the healthcare field. Successful completion prepares students for entry-level practice as invasive cardiovascular technologists.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Invasive cardiovascular technologists operate sophisticated imaging and patient monitoring equipment while working with the cardiologist, who performs procedures on patients, leading to the diagnosis and treatment of congenital and acquired heart disease and peripheral vascular disease. Using x-ray (fluoroscopy) and patient monitoring equipment, invasive cardiovascular technology (ICVT):

• Assist with percutaneous revascularization
• Operate cardiac assist pumps, patient monitoring and imaging equipment
• Monitor patient condition before, during and after procedure
• Provide care for the psychological and physical needs of the patient
They work in a sterile environment, where they manipulate x-ray equipment to acquire images, sit at computer console to monitor vital signs and stand, sometimes for long periods of time, to assist the cardiologist during catheterization. The equipment invasive cardiovascular technologists work with requires that they wear lead aprons.

Mission Statement:

The Mission of the Department of Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences and the Invasive Cardiovascular Technology Program (ICVT) is to provide a comprehensive education preparing students for entry-level practice in medical imaging and radiation sciences as competent, caring members of the health care team, cultivating professionalism and life-long learning.

Other:

• Dual-Concentration students cannot take ICVT in their first year unless they have already completed a Radiography, Cardiac Sonography or Vascular Sonography program.
• One-Concentration students must have completed a Radiography, Cardiac Sonography or Vascular Sonography program.
It is preferred the student is registered in one of the required concentrations for entry into the ICVT program.
• Students must consult an admissions counselor or a Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences faculty member when choosing concentrations, to help make sure that the combination you choose is the best option for your future career

Goals:

• Clinical Performance & Clinical Competence:
• Demonstrate appropriate sterile techniques
• Demonstrate appropriate use of cath lab equipment
• Use safe radiation practice for patient, self and healthcare team
• Provide safe and quality patient care
• Problem Solving Skills & Critical Thinking:
• Respond quickly and appropriately in critical situations and adapt to changing catheterization protocols and procedures.
• Communication Skills:
• Demonstrate appropriate and effective oral and written communication skills with patients and the interprofessional healthcare team.
• Professional Development & Growth:
• Integrate professional ethics and behavior into clinical practice
• Function as part of the interprofessional healthcare team
• Participate in professional growth development