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What is a cath lab

What is a cath lab? staff, equipment list, and procedure

idealmedhealth | May 10th, 2023


Cath lab (short for catheterization laboratory) is a specialized medical facility equipped with diagnostic imaging technology and tools used to perform minimally invasive procedures on the heart and blood vessels.

Minimally invasive procedures are medical procedures that are performed using small incisions or through natural openings in the body, such as the mouth or nose, rather than larger incisions required for traditional open surgery. These procedures are typically less traumatic to the body and require less recovery time than traditional open surgery.

These procedures are made possible by advances in medical technology, such as specialized instruments and imaging technology, which allow doctors to perform complex procedures using smaller incisions. Examples of minimally invasive procedures include laparoscopic surgery, in which a small camera and instruments are inserted through small incisions to perform abdominal surgery, and endoscopic procedures, in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the digestive tract.

In addition to surgical procedures, minimally invasive techniques can also be used for diagnostic purposes, such as in cardiac catheterization, where a catheter is inserted into an artery to diagnose heart conditions.

What is a cath lab? An overview

Cath labs are typically located within hospitals or medical centers, and are staffed by a team of healthcare professionals, including cardiologists, radiologic technologists, and nurses, who work together to diagnose and treat various cardiac and vascular conditions.

During a typical cath lab procedure, a small incision is made in a patient’s skin, and a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) is threaded through an artery or vein and guided to the heart or other target location.

Once the catheter is in place, diagnostic tests, such as angiograms, can be performed to evaluate blood flow and identify any blockages or other abnormalities.

In addition to diagnostic procedures, cath labs are also used to perform minimally invasive treatments, such as angioplasty, stent placement, and cardiac ablation, which can help improve blood flow and treat various heart and vascular conditions.

Catheterization laboratory team members/staff

The team members who work in the cath lab are highly trained professionals who work together to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient during the procedures.

Here are some of the common members of a catheterization laboratory team:

  1. Cardiologist: A medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating heart and cardiovascular diseases. The cardiologist is typically responsible for performing the procedures in the cath lab.
  2. Cardiac Catheterization Technologist: A healthcare professional who assists the cardiologist in the performance of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in the cath lab. They are responsible for preparing and maintaining the equipment, monitoring the patient’s vital signs, and assisting the cardiologist during the procedure. However, later in this content, I will give a detailed explanation of everything you ought to know about a cath lab tech.
  3. Registered Nurse: A nurse who specializes in cardiac care and works in the cath lab. The nurse is responsible for administering medication, monitoring the patient’s vital signs, and assisting the cardiologist during the procedure.
  4. Radiologic Technologist: A healthcare professional who specializes in the use of medical imaging technology such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans. The radiologic technologist assists the cardiologist in the use of imaging equipment during the procedure.
  5. Anesthesiologist: A medical doctor who specializes in administering anesthesia to patients. In some cases, an anesthesiologist may be present in the cath lab to sedate the patient during the procedure.
  6. Cardiovascular Technologist: A healthcare professional who specializes in the use of medical equipment to diagnose and treat heart and vascular diseases. The cardiovascular technologist may assist the cardiologist during the procedure or perform some parts of the procedure independently.
  7. Support Staff: There may also be support staff present in the cath lab, such as administrative assistants, patient transporters, and cleaning staff, who ensure that the lab runs smoothly and that the environment is clean and safe for patients and staff.
  8. Cardiac physiologist: A cardiac physiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of heart and vascular diseases. In the cath lab, a cardiac physiologist may play an important role in assisting the cardiologist with the performance of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Cath lab equipment list

The equipment found in a typical cath lab may vary depending on the specific procedures performed, but here is a general list of some of the common equipment found in a cath lab:

  1. X-ray machine: This is used to obtain real-time images of the heart and blood vessels during procedures.
  2. Angiography system: This includes a contrast injector, catheterization table, and imaging system. The angiography system is used to visualize the blood vessels and diagnose any blockages or abnormalities.
  3. Hemodynamic monitoring system: This is used to measure blood pressure, blood flow, and other vital signs during the procedure.
  4. Electrocardiogram (ECG) machine: This is used to measure the electrical activity of the heart and monitor heart rhythm.What is a cath lab
  5. Ultrasound machine: This is used for visualizing blood flow, heart valves, and other structures in the heart.
  6. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) machine: This is used to visualize the inside of blood vessels and diagnose any abnormalities.
  7. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) machine: This is used to visualize the inside of blood vessels in high resolution.
  8. Pressure wires: These are used to measure blood pressure inside the coronary arteries during procedures.
  9. Guidewires and catheters: These are used to navigate the blood vessels and perform procedures such as angioplasty and stent placement.
  10. Balloon catheters: These are used to inflate a balloon inside the blocked blood vessel to open it up and improve blood flow.
  11. Stents: These are small metal mesh tubes that are placed inside the blood vessel to keep it open after angioplasty.

    What is a cath lab
    Angioplasty and Stent Placement
  12. Sheaths: These are used to gain access to the blood vessels and insert catheters.
  13. Vascular closure devices: These are used to close the puncture site in the artery after the procedure is completed.
  14. Echocardiography machine: This is used to image the heart and surrounding structures using sound waves.
  15. Defibrillator: This is used to deliver an electric shock to the heart in case of cardiac arrest or arrhythmia.

list of procedures done in cath lab

Here is a list of some of the common procedures that are performed in a cath lab:

Coronary angiogram: This is a diagnostic test used to visualize the coronary arteries and diagnose any blockages or abnormalities.

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI): This is a therapeutic procedure used to treat blocked coronary arteries. It includes balloon angioplasty, stent placement, and atherectomy.

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurement: This is a diagnostic test used to determine the functional significance of a blockage in the coronary artery.

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS): This is a diagnostic test that uses a small ultrasound probe to visualize the inside of the blood vessels and diagnose any abnormalities.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This is a diagnostic test that uses light waves to create high-resolution images of the inside of the blood vessels.

Electrophysiology study: This is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the electrical activity of the heart and diagnose any arrhythmias.

Radiofrequency ablation: This is a therapeutic procedure used to treat certain types of arrhythmias by destroying the tissue causing the abnormal rhythm.

Implantation of pacemakers and defibrillators: These are therapeutic procedures used to treat certain types of arrhythmias and heart failure.

Balloon valvuloplasty: This is a therapeutic procedure used to treat certain types of heart valve disease by inflating a balloon inside the valve to open it up.

what is a cath lab
The difference of normal heart valve and bicuspid aortic valve vector. Congenital heart disease. Aortic valve stenosis.

Closure of atrial septal defects (ASD) and patent foramen ovale (PFO): These are therapeutic procedures used to close certain types of congenital heart defects.

Endomyocardial biopsy: This is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the heart muscle for certain diseases.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR): This is a therapeutic procedure used to treat severe aortic stenosis by replacing the damaged valve with a new one.

Who is cath lab tech?

A cath lab tech is a healthcare professional who is responsible for assisting physicians in performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in the catheterization laboratory.

Cath lab techs work under the supervision of a physician and are trained to operate and maintain the specialized equipment used in the cath lab.

Some of the duties of a cath lab tech include preparing the patient for the procedure, positioning and monitoring the patient during the procedure, operating and maintaining the equipment, and assisting the physician during the procedure. Cath lab techs may also be responsible for documenting the procedure and communicating with other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care.

To become a cath lab tech, one typically needs to complete a cardiovascular technology program that includes coursework in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, cardiovascular pharmacology, and patient care techniques.

In addition, many programs offer clinical rotations in cath labs to provide hands-on experience. Certification is available through professional organizations such as the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) for those who meet the education and clinical requirements.

Who is cath lab nurse?

A cath lab nurse is a registered nurse who specializes in caring for patients who are undergoing procedures in the cardiac catheterization laboratory (cath lab).

This lab is a specialized unit within a hospital where procedures are performed to diagnose and treat heart and vascular conditions.

These nurses work closely with physicians, other nurses, and technologists to prepare patients for procedures, monitor patients’ vital signs during procedures, administer medications, and provide care and support to patients and their families throughout the procedure.

They also help to ensure that the cath lab is stocked with necessary supplies and equipment, and that all equipment is functioning properly.

Cath lab nurses typically have specialized training and experience in cardiac nursing and critical care, and they may also have additional training in specialized areas such as electrophysiology or interventional cardiology.

In addition to their nursing degree, many cath lab nurses hold certification in cardiovascular nursing, such as the Cardiac-Vascular Nursing Certification (RN-BC) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

A final thought on what is a cath lab

In conclusion, the cardiac catheterization laboratory, or cath lab, is an essential facility for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular conditions. It is a specialized area within a hospital that is equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by highly trained healthcare professionals.

Cath lab procedures, such as angiograms, stent placements, and heart valve replacements, are minimally invasive and have significantly improved patient outcomes compared to traditional open-heart surgeries.

The cath lab plays a critical role in the care of patients with heart disease, and its continued development and innovation will undoubtedly lead to even better outcomes in the future.

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Running a Lab? 4 Lab Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid 

Lab Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid 
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Running a Lab? 4 Lab Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid 

chibueze uchegbu | January 17th, 2023


If you have a lab in your practice, you probably know that maintaining one is never easy. 

It’s easy to get overwhelmed in such a case. However, there is no need to panic. In this article, we will share some of the most common laboratory maintenance mistakes made. By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll be able to keep your lab running smoothly and efficiently.

Not Having a Maintenance Routine

Laboratory equipment will deteriorate over time or may malfunction unexpectedly without routine maintenance and inspection.

You can avoid major, expensive repairs and premature replacement by doing preventative maintenance. Furthermore, by maintaining your equipment regularly, you’ll be able to prolong its lifespan.

Not Working with a Reputable Service Company

Lab equipment downtime is reduced by 60% when preventative maintenance is carried out by a skilled technician.

When lab equipment breaks down, productivity suffers, costing time and money. A reputable service company will not only have qualified technicians but also assist with reminding you when your maintenance is due on your lab equipment.

Skipping Lab Equipment Repair

If a piece of lab equipment breaks down, you might be tempted to ignore the problem and continue with other tasks. However, this unwise decision can cause further damage and cost more in the long run. 

If something appears malfunctioning or not working correctly, don’t hesitate to call an expert for help.

Keep an eye on equipment such as:

HP300 Tissue Processor

This cutting-edge processor is widely used worldwide in research facilities, labs, and individual sectors. However, it might sometimes break down or become inefficient if not maintained properly.

DP360 Automated Stainer

The DP360 Automated Stainer is an incredibly efficient, user-friendly slide staining solution built with advanced technology that allows you to monitor staining progress and results anywhere.

This stainer ensures consistent slide quality and accurate dosing and mixing of reagents. Additionally, the DP360 Automated Stainer offers real-time alerts and notifications, keeping you informed of the progress.

CS500 Automated Coverslipper

The CS500 Automated Coverslipper is a highly efficient device designed to quickly and reliably coverslip slides.

This unit is equipped with a user-friendly touchscreen interface, allowing for easy operation and monitoring of the machine’s performance.

On top of that, it records usage statistics such as the total number of slides coverslipped, allowing the user to track when to replace the glass coverslips. Additionally, the machine can cover up to 500 slides per hour, making it an ideal choice for high-volume laboratories.

But as with any lab device, the CS500 Automated Coverslipper must be serviced and maintained regularly to ensure optimal performance. 

This includes cleaning the coverslipping chamber and other parts of the machine, replacing and calibrating glass coverslips, and changing filters.

Not Having Preventive Lab Maintenance

Studies have shown that laboratory preventative maintenance helps reduce the chance of accidents and unexpected downtime. Neglecting to carry out preventive maintenance can cause expensive repairs, long downtimes, or even complete breakdowns.

So, a preventative maintenance plan is essential for any lab. This type of service should include regular inspections and tests of machinery and equipment, as well as service visits from a qualified technician.

Doing this can drastically reduce costly repairs and ensure that your lab runs smoothly and efficiently.

Final Word

Maintaining an efficient medical laboratory is no easy task. However, we’re sure avoiding the lab maintenance mistakes discussed above will help in smoother lab operations. 

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to ask us in the comments!

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Medical Laboratory Technician

Medical Laboratory Technician

chibueze uchegbu | December 23rd, 2021


Everything about Medical laboratory technician is made easy. Medical laboratory science is among the many specialties in the medical field concerned with medical laboratory analysis.

The ones that specialize in this field are called medical laboratory technicians or clinical laboratory technicians.

In our update today we shall be giving our readers a rundown on how to become a medical laboratory technician, reasons to become a medical laboratory technician, among many other related details of medical laboratory science.

Who is a Medical Laboratory Technician?

A medical laboratory technician can be simply put as a medical expert who works in the lab to analyze biological specimens.

They also collect body tissues, substances, and other specimens to determine findings which are later submitted to other medical fields.

The technicians and the lab technologists perform tests based on the request of the doctor or other healthcare professionals.

Their role in the medical field is so vast that you can always see them in clinics, doctor’s offices, hospitals, labs, diagnostics centers, etc.  If you are looking at a healthcare career where you will not meet the patient, a Medical Lab technician might just be what you need.

How to Become a Medical Lab Technician

Medical laboratory science remains an integral part of medical courses. It forms an off-the-patient room powerhouse that helps in arriving and making good medical decisions.

High School Diploma: Similar to other courses in the university, a high school diploma is compulsory for one to enroll and study Medical Lab sciences. If you intend to study medical courses you will have to ace your grades, especially in sciences like Biology, physics, chemistry, etc.

A GPA of 3.0 is enough to get accepted for Med Lab in many schools.

Obtain a bachelor’s degree: To get certified and become a Med lab technologist, you must obtain a graduate degree from an accredited institution. While some might opt for a general science course, those that are decisive about becoming medical lab technicians go for a med lab science program where they are immersed in the skills, knowledge, and technical know-how in the field of medical laboratory sciences.

There are other associate degrees associated with the bachelor’s degree which is necessary to scale the final certification exam. This stage is where they are introduced to some clinical experiments, practicals, a series of internships, and mentoring in the labs and hospitals.

Work Experience: In as much as you must have obtained a sound level of training and skills, it is equally important you work and get mentored in Med Lab sciences. Though it is not mandatory to gain work experience before you get licensed to practice, it remains important for a sound knowledge of the field.

Earn your CertificationTo earn your certificate, you will have to pass the licensing exam of the accredited bodies and regulatory authorities. Their accreditation will further validate your MLS degree and allow you to practice and apply for jobs.

Medical Lab Technician Jobs/Career Opportunities and Outlook.

Because of the vastness of medical laboratory science, it tends to expose a wide variety of opportunities for its graduates.

Certified med lab technicians can work in hospitals, clinics, diagnostics firms, private consultancy among other healthcare and health-related jobs.

The Job is expected to grow with an average of 24,000 new positions by 2029.

Reasons to Become a Medical Laboratory Technician

To provide more clarity on the many ways graduates of MLS can carve a niche, we have listed some of the reasons that can propel one to become a Medical Laboratory Technician.

Flexibility: If there is anything a worker earnestly craves in his/her workplace it is flexibility. Med lab technicians, by virtue of the nature of their workplace, can schedule their work shifts to fit into their current needs and endeavors.

No Direct Contact: Not every healthcare career requires direct patient care. Although they support medical professionals, medical lab techs work behind the scenes. In fact, you may never come in contact with patients at all.

Medical lab technicians use high-tech equipment daily to test samples of the human body for diagnosis. For science enthusiasts, and those that love technology and healthcare, a medical lab tech career is a perfect mix of all three fields.

Easy Entry: Entering the workforce as a medical lab technician is pretty easy. Through a Medical Laboratory Technician program, you can be ready for employment in not less than two years.

Employment Growth: MLT careers are booming across the country. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate is projected to grow by 15% between now and 2024, much faster than average. The increase makes finding the perfect job easier.

With the increase in demand for Medical Laboratory Technicians, we have taken it up as a platform to discuss some areas of the profession a good number of us need clarity on.

In our content today, we shall have an in-depth discussion on Lab Technician salary, Lab Technician Course, Lab Technician qualification, Lab Technician Job description, Lab Technician course as well as Lab Technician program.

Lab Technician Salary

Lab Technicians earn well above average salaries. Lab technicians earn enough for their time in the lab because of their off the ward and non-patient contact job.

Technicians earn as much as $20.04 per hour. In addition to the basic salary, lab technicians can equally work as consultants, tutors, and other medical lab-related areas while also keeping their basic salary.

Averagely MLT salaries are pegged at $58,899 annually, which can considerably rise as a result of the length of experience, recommendations, and certifications.

Lab Technician Course

The course list of lab technicians is so vast comprising many areas and specializations. Through our research associates, we have been able to make a list of a good number of courses technicians will have to immerse themselves in during the duration of their program.

  1. First Term
  • BASIC LAB SKILLS
  • PHLEBOTOMY
  • QA LAB MATH
  • URINALYSIS
  • GEN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
  • INTRO TO BIOCHEMISTRY
  • COLLEGE 101
  1. Second Term
  • BLOOD BANK
  • BASIC IMMUNOLOGY CONCEPTS
  • BASIC HEMATOLOGY
  • COAGULATION
  • MICROBIOLOGY
  • WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
  1. Third Term
  • INTRO TO SOCIOLOGY
  • INTRO TO PSYCHOLOGY
  1. Fourth Term
  • CLINICAL CHEMISTRY
  • ADVANCED HEMATOLOGY
  • CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY
  • ADVANCED MICROBIOLOGY
  • SPEECH
  1. Fifth Term

Lab Technician Qualification

To become a lab technician, one will need to bag a series of qualifications and degrees from accredited institutions and regulatory bodies.

The least educational requirement expected of a lab technician is an Associate Degree which includes lots of coursework, experiments, and other additional programs.

Licensure certification programs vary by state, but most require a minimum educational requirement, a continuing education requirement, and a licensing fee.

A certificate can cover the entire field or be limited to a particular specialty, such as that required for phlebotomy or blood draw. Certification requires formal education and passing an exam, just like licensing.

Lab Technician Job Description

Laboratory technicians make up the backbone of scientific research labs. They conduct most of their work in laboratories, either alone or with a team of scientists. Technicians may work in forensics, health, or manufacturing.

If a laboratory technician works in a medical environment, they might be analyzing body fluids or tissues, running blood tests, or examining cells. If they are employed by a food manufacturer, they might be testing food samples for contamination.

Roles/Duties of a Medical Laboratory Technician

  • Conducting and supporting scientific investigations and experiments
  • Arranging, organizing, setting up, and undertaking controlled experiments and trials
  • Recording the analysis of data.
  • Demonstrating procedures
  • They collect, prepare and test samples.
  • They ensure the maintenance and full sterility of equipment.
  • Ensure full technical support
  • Work and submit reports to senior colleagues.
  • They present full reports and reviews of all lab outcomes.
  • Keeping up to date with relevant scientific and technical developments.

Who can employ a Lab Technician?

Like we said earlier, the role of a lab technician in modern medicine crosses beyond the walls of the hospital or clinic lab.

They are employed in other business enterprises where their knowledge in laboratory science is equally needed.

Below is a list of typical employers of Medical Laboratory Technicians

  • Environmental agencies
  • Specialist research organizations or consultancies
  • Universities
  • Hospitals and clinics
  • The Civil Service
  • Water companies
  • Pharmaceutical companies
  • Chemical companies
  • Food and drink companies

Lab Technician Program

The Lab Technician program is the program for you if you find research exciting and like the thought of working in a lab. The program is packed with courses that help you acquire the intermediate knowledge and skills required to work in a clinical laboratory.

As a medical lab technician, you will provide clinicians with the critical information necessary for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of a wide variety of diseases.

Below are what you will learn in the Lab Technician program

  • Collation and processing of biologic specimens for analysis.
  • Perform analytical tests on blood, body fluids, and tissues.
  • You will equally learn how to recognize pre-analytical and analytical variables in laboratory testing.
  • Monitor quality performance and control.
  • Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on laboratory instruments.
  • Maintain professional conduct in communication with patients, health care professionals, and the public.

At the end of the program, graduates are awarded an associate of applied science degree as a Medical Laboratory Technician and will be eligible to take the national certification exam.

Conclusion

The path toward getting certified as a Medical Laboratory Technician has definitive steps which must be followed.

Anyone skipped will affect the positive outcome of your studies adversely. Ensure you identify with accredited institutions with the modern advanced technology required in modern medicine.

Medical Laboratory Science is vast and at such presents lots of opportunities both in the medical and outside the medical fields for professionals in it.

A good number of people want to become Nurses and Doctors. However, if you’re searching for a rewarding healthcare career that doesn’t require hands-on patient care, becoming a medical lab technician might be a great option for you.

As the doctor is saving lives in the ward and theatres, the lab technicians are providing support with lab analysis and results to help draw logical healthcare conclusions. Therefore, they remain an integral part of general healthcare.

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