This major is a program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians and nurses, to perform both cardiovascular and pulmonary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
Includes instruction in cardiopulmonary pharmacology; anatomy and physiology of the heart, peripheral vascular system, and lungs; pulmonary and cardiovascular disease and dysfunction; peripheral vascular Doppler procedures; invasive and non-invasive cardiology; pulmonary function tests; blood gas analysis; echocardiograph procedures; bronchoscopy; patient management; patient history taking and record-keeping; applications to clinical research; and emergency procedures.
What can you do with a major/degree in Cardiopulmonary Technology/Technologist Major?
As a Cardiopulmonary Technician or Technologist, you conduct tests on pulmonary or cardiovascular systems of patients for diagnostic, therapeutic, or research purposes who have been diagnosed with ailments such as coronary artery disease, severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, and heart attack among other conditions. In certain situations, your responsibilities in this job begin once a patient’s condition has been stabilized.
Job opportunities for Cardiopulmonary Technician or Technologist are very likely in the future as this career subsector is expected to see a ten percent (10%) growth 2019-2029
Certificate or an associate degree is highly recommended. There is no individual certification for Cardiopulmonary Technician or Technologist. However, accredited facilities that provide cardiopulmonary rehabilitation services receive their certification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Trade Associations and Professional Organizations in Cardiopulmonary Technology/Technologist Major
Professional associations are groups of professionals dedicated to topics in specific fields. Professional associations provide a wealth of online resources, some of which are geared specifically towards students. These organizations typically also host conferences and events, providing great opportunities for learning and networking across your field of interest.
- American Heart Association
- American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- American Society of Echocardiography
- Cardiovascular Credentialing International
Publications/Magazines in Cardiopulmonary Technology/Technologist Major