SECTION III:
Cardiovascular Technology Program
Student Handbook
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Table of Co
n
t
en
t
s
Section III: Cardiovascular Technology Program Student Handbook
The Faculty 3
Message from CVT Program Director and Faculty 3
Program History 4-5
Advisory Board Committee 6
Program Mission 6
Program Goals 6
Admission to the CVT Program 7
Requirements to Progress in the Program 7-8
Cardiovascular Technology Program Student Learning Outcomes 9
Invasive Graduation Plan 10-11
Adult Echocardiography Graduation Plan 12-13
Vascular Sonography Graduation Plan 14
Program Fees 15-16
Clinical Plan of Education and Clinical Travel 17
Registry Credentialing Agencies 18
Definition of the Cardiovascular Profession 19
Scope of Practice and Clinical Standards 19
Code of Ethics 20
Professional Societies 20
PTC Clubs and Organizations 21
Policy For Managing Pregnant Radiation Worker/Students 22
Acknowledgement of Radiation Risk During Pregnancy 23
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The Faculty
Scott W.M. Wells BS, RDCS, RVT Office: (864) 941-8717
Cardiovascular Technology Program Director Email: wells.s@ptc.edu
Adult Echocardiography Instructor
Cody Johnson
Invasive Clinical Coordinator/Instructor Email: johnson.c2@ptc.edu
Lisa Turman
Invasive Clinical Coordinator/Instructor Email: turman[email protected]
Jacob Childress
Invasive Clinical Coordinator/Instructor Email: childress.j1@ptc.edu
Message from the CVT Program Director
Section III Cardiovascular Technology Program Student Handbook is in addition to the first two
sections of the Health Care Division Handbook. It is provided to current and tracking Invasive, Adult
Echocardiography and Vascular Sonography students at Piedmont Technical College. It is to be used
in conjunction with the Piedmont Technical College Health Care Division Student Handbook. It is
designed to answer any purpose, policy and procedural questions that might arise during the course
of enrollment in the CVT program.
Message from the CVT Faculty
The CVT faculty is committed to the philosophy of Piedmont Technical College with special emphasis
on student-centered learning, and to the premise that Cardiovascular Technology is a “profession”
and those who enter clinical practice are accountable for their actions and continued professional
growth. Teaching strategies are designed to promote critical thinking, an attitude of inquiry,
personal responsibility, a commitment to keep pace with the evolution of the scope of practice, and
sharing professional knowledge
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Program History
In the Fall of 2005, Lena Warren, Dean of Health Science and Jerry A. Alewine, Director of Clinical
Education for the Respiratory Program at Piedmont Technical College conducted a community
survey to explore the need for a cardiovascular program. Initial input was sought from Kendra
Kenney who serves as the Director of Cardiovascular Services at Self Regional Healthcare in
Greenwood, South Carolina. A pro-forma assessment was conducted throughout the seven counties
served by Piedmont Technical College and the state of South Carolina. Contact was made to most all
hospitals offering cardiovascular services to include those with catherization labs in the state.
During this preliminary phase it was determined that a significant need for trained cardiovascular
technologist (CVT) both in the invasive and non-invasive discipline existed.
An assessment of the offerings for CVT training was viewed as minimal with most CVT’s trained on-
the-job. The vast majority of CVT’s were being recruited from the disciplines of respiratory care
practitioners and radiological technologists. At the time the University of South Carolina in
cooperation with the Sisters of Charity – Providence Heart Center offered an 18-month certificate
training program for non-invasive and vascular track students. This program admitted up to six
students per admitting class thus leaving a tremendous gap in the number of professionals seeking
additional education or training. Recognizing this need, Eric J. Walker, Director of the School of
Cardiovascular Diagnostics at USC offered his full support for the creation of an additional CVT
program at the associate degree level. In a letter dated January 16, 2006, Walker confirmed this
support to the Honorable John E. Courson, South Carolina State Senator for District 20. With a
completion of needs assessment for the program and support from the USC School of Cardiovascular
Diagnostics approval was sought and secured for a new program from the Piedmont Technical
College Area Commissioners, the governing board of the college.
The initial design of the program curriculum was based upon a similar program at Central Piedmont
Technical College in Charlotte, North Carolina. With the submission of a model for the program,
Piedmont Technical College was given approval by the South Carolina Technical College System and
the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education to proceed with program implementation in
the Spring of 2007. Initial funding for the program was secured through a grant from a Duke
Endowment grant provided through the offerings of Self Regional Healthcare. Additional funds were
provided through the South Carolina Technical System and incorporated into the budget for
Piedmont Technical College. Piedmont Technical College received additional funding from the
community and in particular from Piedmont Cardiology Associates.
Through the grant from the Duke Endowment, Self Regional Healthcare bought the building at 345
North Emerald Road, Greenwood, that would eventually house the Cardiovascular Program. The
building was leased to Piedmont Technical College for a period of 3 years. At the completion of the
three-year period the space reverted to Piedmont Technical College free and clear. Upon completion
of the fund raising program, construction to renovate the building began in July of 2008. The facility
contains 4500 square foot space that was subdivided into a simulated catherization lab, classrooms,
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an echocardiology lab, and faculty offices and student space. The facility was ready for occupancy in
December of 2008.
In December of 2008, Cindy B. Evans BS,RRT,RCP,RCS,RPsgT was hired as the principle program
director. In addition to Ms. Evans, Dr. Sue George, PhD was hired as a consult to the program to
assist with program development. As program personnel Dr. Mihai Croitoru accepted the initial role
of Non-Invasive Medical Director, and Dr. Paul Kim accepted the role of Invasive Medical Director in
the summer of 2009, respectfully. Dr. Paul Kim has continued the role of Medical Director now for
both cardiovascular tracks.
The first class for the CVT program were admitted and began class on January 20th 2009.
In 2010, Christy C. Nichols BHS,RT,(R),(CT) was hired as the invasive cardiovascular technology
instructor and clinical coordinator role. Ms. Nichols had extensive experience with the invasive
cardiology and 4 years of teaching experience on community college level.
Early on the non-invasive program lost Cindy Evans who was replaced by Rodney Rutherford.
Rodney Rutherford along with Christy Nichols submitted the Initial Program Accreditation Self-
Study and received the programs received initial program accreditation status on July 18, 2013.
Shortly after Rodney Rutherford resigned and Laura Rawlings took his place. Laura Rawlings stayed
until 2015.
In 2015, Laura T. Boone B.S.DMS, RDCS, RVT, RDMS, RT(R) was hired for the non-invasive
cardiovascular instructor. At the time of hire she brought eight years of ultrasound experience,
clinical preceptorship experience, and part-time clinical instructor experience at the college level,
and multiple credentials in the non-invasive field to the program. The two instructors/clinical
coordinators served as Program Directors for their respective programs.
Several changes have occurred in the last five years. In 2017, the two program directors submitted a
curriculum changes through the PTC Curriculum Committee at the college level, the South Carolina
Technical College System, and the JRC-CVT for consideration. All of the curriculum changes were
accepted by all parties and an implementation date of January 2019 was determined. The significant
changes included: a program name change from Non-Invasive to Adult Echocardiography and a
decrease in the number of semesters needed to complete the program. The decrease is from 5
semesters to 4 semesters. The clinical hours were not decreased, but condensed throughout the four
semesters.
In 2018, the CVT program applied for Continuing Accreditation status by CAAHEP and it was granted
by the recommendation of the JRC-CVT.
In 2019, a proposal for a Vascular Sonography Certificate was approved for the for the 2020-2021
Academic Year.
In January 2020, Lena Y. Scott M.B.A HCA, B.S. RS, RCIS was hired as the Program Instructor &
Clinical Coordinator for the Invasive Cardiology program to replace Christy Nichols who resigned
from the college.
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In January 2021, the first cohort of the Vascular Sonography Certificate was enrolled with one
student graduating in August of 2021.
Multiple curriculum changes were submitted in 2021 which went into effect in fall term 2022.
In Fall of 2022, Cody Johnson began as an adjunct for the invasive program. In October 2022, Lena
Scott resigned from her full-time position and continued as an adjunct faculty member.
In April of 2023 Laura Boone resigned and Scott Wells was hired as the program director and
instructor for non-invasive CVT students. Lisa Turman was hired in the summer and began as an
adjunct for the invasive program.
Advisory Board Committee
The Cardiovascular Technology Program Advisory Committee is defined as a formalized group of
individuals not associated with the college but who are representatives and knowledgeable of the
present and anticipated performance conditions and requirements of cardiovascular technology
within the college’s service area. The Advisory Committee members represent the communities of
interest that are served by the program and must include, but are not limited to, students,
graduates, faculty, sponsor administration, employers, physicians, and the public. This group is to
be constituted and operated so that the combined judgments and experience of the members will
influence the curriculum structure and instructional methods, formulate and periodically revise
appropriate goals and learning domains, monitor needs and expectations, and ensure program
responsiveness to change. The advisory committee will meet annually at a minimum.
Program Mission
The Cardiovascular Technology Department will provide competency-based education that links
theoretical, professional, and ethical concepts in order to prepare graduates for clinical practice
and life-long learning.
Program Goals and Minimum Expectations
• Prepare competent entry-level cardiovascular technologists in the cognitive, psychomotor, and
affective learning domains to enter the Adult Cardiac Sonography or Invasive Cardiovascular
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Technology Professions.
Admission into the CVT Program
Applicants who wish to qualify for admission into the Invasive and Adult Echocardiography Program
must meet PTC general college requirements and the specific admission requirements for the CVT
program of choice as stated in the PTC Academic Catalog and the Health Care Division Handbook.
The Program Fact Sheet summarizes the requirements and the Program Application Worksheet
is
used to calculate each applicants score. The top eight students applying to the invasive track and the
top twelve students applying to the Adult Echo track will be accepted. In the event of a tie, the
student with the earliest priority date will be selected.
Requirements to Progress and Successfully Complete the Program
Students in any program must meet the following requirements to progress in their program
ultimately leading to graduation from the college. The requirements for progression in the
programs, included by are not limited to:
1. A grade of "B" or better in all required courses. This is necessary to provide minimally safe
practitioners;
2. Attempts at another college will be considered;
3. A GPA of 2.0 is required to graduate from any Health Care Division program;
4. Up-to-date medical records (Please see Health Assessment Form Section);
5. Current BLS Provider CPR completion card;
6. Documentation of yearly Hospital Orientation through Care Learning;
7. Students must have clear background check and drug screening
a. Reporting Criminal Offenses - Students must notify the school Program
Director/Instructor if they had an arrest and/or criminal charge or conviction filed
subsequent to completion of the criminal background check. The school further agrees to
notify the clinical facility as soon as possible, but not later than seven calendar days of
such charges or convictions. Failure to do so may result in the participant’s dismissal
from the clinical rotation. Failure of the school to notify the clinical facility of any
arrest(s), criminal charge(s), or conviction(s) within seven calendar days may result in
the immediate termination of the clinical affiliation agreement.
8. Students must be able to demonstrate mastery of competencies (or a basic skill set)
necessary for clinical placement).
a. Mastery of Competency
i. In each course with a lab or clinical component in which skills are
verified through timed skills checkoffs the student can only score less
than 75% on one (1) of the checkoffs on the first attempt and must then
successfully pass (with a 75% or greater) on any repeated checkoff
within 1 additional attempt. The additional attempt will begin with a 10-
point deduction (ie. Second attempt begins with a 90%). In the event the
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student is unable to successfully complete either of these requirements,
they will be required to withdraw from the course (if prior to the last
date to withdraw) or receive an F for the course and will not be allowed
to take any future class tests. Any missed checkoffs (due to a tardy or
absence) on the originally scheduled date will result in a 0 for that skill.
There will be no make-ups for that skill.
ii. Skills check off sheets are used as a study tool for students as they
practice however, to demonstrate competency during the graded check
off skills these sheets should not be used by the student. During the skills
check off the student should not have the skills check off sheet in view
and should only have approved/needed supplies for skill. If a skills
checkoff sheet is visible during a graded checkoff a 0 will be recorded for
that skill.
iii. Incomplete work for the semester will result in an incomplete which
becomes a failure if not successfully made up prior to the “incomplete to
convert to F date” as listed in the PTC Student Handbook/Calendar,
which is 30 school days. The Clinical Instructor may choose to award
students an Incomplete or an "F" depending on if 80% of the
requirements for clinical performance are met. For example: if you try to
get all of your grades at the end of the semester and do not complete, you
may be awarded an "I" instead of an "F. Students may not receive more
than two incompletes in one program. This means that students are
allowed one incomplete during the freshman year and one incomplete
during the senior year. For example: a second incomplete during the
freshman year may result in clinical failure or a second incomplete
during the senior year may result in clinical failure.
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Cardiovascular Technology Program Student Learning Outcomes
Invasive Cardiovascular Technology
• Demonstrate the work ethic skills needed for employment in the field of Invasive
Cardiovascular Technology.
• Apply knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology with emphasis
to the cardiac catheterization procedure and assessment.
• Interpret other cardiac catheterization methods.
• Apply knowledge of hemodynamics through mathematical calculations and electronics
and medical instrumentation.
• Apply a working knowledge of radiation imaging production, radiation science,
radiation biology, and radiation safety as it relates to patient and occupational
exposure. ALARA-As Low As Reasonably Achievable.
• Demonstrate hands on skill proficiency in cardiac catheterization procedure
preparation and facilitation.
Adult Echocardiography
• Apply knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to assess and analyze the heart
through cardiac sonography.
• Recognize the physical sonographic principles and apply knowledge of the physical sonographic
principles and instrumentation during cardiac ultrasound.
• Demonstrate hands-on skill proficiency and good clinical decision making to obtain quality
echocardiograms that document cardiac pathology adequately.
• Interpret other cardiac diagnostic methods at a basic level.
• Demonstrate the work ethic skills needed for employment in the field of Cardiovascular Technology.
Vascular Sonography
• Apply knowledge of vascular anatomy, physiology/hemodynamics, and pathophysiology to assess and
analyze the vascular system with sonography.
• Demonstrate hands-on skill proficiency and good clinical decision making to obtain quality vascular
exams that document pathology adequately.
• Interpret vascular studies and provide an oral and written summary of findings.
• Explain miscellaneous vascular testing methods and recognize abnormalities.
• State effective procedures for continuing sonographic education after graduation and throughout the
sonography career.
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Associate in Applied Science
Total
Credit
Hours:
68
Cardiovascular Technology - Invasive (CVTI)
Effective:
FALL
2022
Graduation Plan
First Semester Program-Ready Courses
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
AHS
102
Medical Terminology
RDG 100
FA SP SU
3
BIO
210
Anatomy and Physiology I
ENG 100, RDG 100, MAT 032/012
FA SP SU
4
ENG
101
English Composition I
ENG 100, RDG 100
FA SP SU
3
MAT
102
Intermediate Algebra (or MAT 120)
MAT 152 or 101 (min grade C)
FA SP SU
3
PSY
201
General Psychology
ENG 100, RDG 100
FA SP SU
3
TOTAL
16
Second Semester Program-Ready Courses
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
BIO
211
Anatomy and Physiology II
BIO 210 (min grade C)
FA SP SU
4
SPC
205
Public Speaking
ENG 101 or 165
FA SP SU
3
Humanities/Fine Arts
May vary by course.
FA SP SU
3
TOTAL
10
Enrollment in Cardiovascular Technology coursework requires admission to the program.
Program-Ready Applications are accepted in May. For more information, see program fact sheet.
Fall Semester
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
101
Intro to Cardiovascular Technology
Prereq: Adm. to Prog. And BIO 211
Coreq: CVT 112 and 115
SP
2
CVT
112
Cardiovascular Principles
Prereq: Adm. to Prog.
Coreq: CVT 101 and 115
SP
3
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CVT
117
Invasive Fundamentals (2/6)
Prereq: Adm. to Prog.
Coreq: CVT 101 and 112
FA
3
BIO 211 must be completed by the end of this semester.
TOTAL
8
Spring Semester
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
108
Physics for Invasive Cardiovascular Tech
Prereq: CVT 101, 112, and 115
Coreq: CVT 120 and 122
SU
2
CVT
120
Invasive Cardiology I
Prereq: CVT 101,112,115,and BIO
211
Coreq: CVT 108 and 122
SU
3
CVT
122
Invasive Cardiology Clinical I
Prereq: CVT 101, 112, and 115
Coreq: CVT 108 and 120
SU
5
SPC 205 must be completed by the end of this semester.
TOTAL
10
Summer Semester
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
110
Hemodynamics and Cardiac Physiology
Prereq: CVT 108, 120, and 122
Coreq: CVT 121 and 125
FA
3
CVT
121
Invasive Cardiology II
Prereq: CVT 108, 120, 122, & SPC
205
Coreq: CVT 110 and 125
FA
3
CVT
125
Invasive Cardiology Clinical II-Applications
Prereq: CVT 108, 120, and 122
Coreq: CVT 110 and 121
FA
5
TOTAL
11
Fall Semester
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
223
Invasive Cardiology III
Prereq: CVT 110, 121, and 125
Coreq: CVT 225, 226
SP
3
CVT
225
Invasive Cardiology Clinical III
Prereq: CVT 110, 121, 125
Coreq: CVT 223, 226
SP
8
CVT
226
Invasive Cardiology Special Topics
Prereq: CVT 110, 121, and 125
Coreq: CVT 223, 225
SP
2
TOTAL
13
NOTE: Course offerings may vary by semester and year. Please consult DegreeWorks and the course search feature when
determining if the desired course is being offered in the current semester.
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Associate in Applied Science
Total
Credit
Hours:
69
Cardiovascular Technology - Adult Echocardiography (CVTN)
Effective:
Fall
2022
Graduation Plan
First Semester Program-Ready Courses
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
AHS
102
Medical Terminology
RDG 100
FA SP SU
3
BIO
210
Anatomy and Physiology I
ENG 100, RDG 100, MAT 032/012
FA SP SU
4
ENG
101
English Composition I
ENG 100, RDG 100
FA SP SU
3
MAT
102
Intermediate Algebra
MAT 152 (min grade C)
FA SP SU
3
PSY
201
General Psychology
ENG 100, RDG 100
FA SP SU
3
TOTAL
16
Second Semester Program-Ready Courses
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
BIO
211
Anatomy and Physiology II
BIO 210 (min grade C)
FA SP SU
4
SPC
205
Public Speaking
ENG 101 or 165
FA SP SU
3
Humanities/Fine Arts
May vary by course.
FA SP SU
3
TOTAL
10
Enrollment in Cardiovascular Technology coursework requires admission to the program.
Program-Ready Applications are accepted in September.
For more information, see program fact sheet at http://www.ptc.edu/factsheets.
Fall Semester
Course Course Description Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
101
Intro to Cardiovascular Technology
Prereq: Adm. to Prog. And BIO 211
Coreq: CVT 112 and 115
FA
2
CVT
112
Cardiovascular Principles
Prereq: Adm. to Prog.
Coreq: CVT 101 and 115
FA
3
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CVT
115
Echocardiography Fundamentals (2/6)
Prereq: Adm. to Prog.
Coreq: CVT 101 and 112
FA
3
TOTAL
8
Spring Semester
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
106
Introduction to Non-Invasive Physics
Prereq: CVT 101, 112, and 115
Coreq: CVT 140 and 142
SP
3
CVT
140
Non-Invasive Cardiology I
Prereq: CVT 101, 112, and 115
Coreq: CVT 106 and 142
SP
3
CVT
142
Non-Invasive Cardiology Clinical I
Prereq: CVT 101, 112, and 115
Coreq: CVT 106 and 140
SP
5
TOTAL
11
Summer Semester
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
107
Non-Invasive Cardiovascular Physics
Prereq: CVT 106, 140, and 142
Coreq: CVT 141 and 144
SU
3
CVT
141
Non-Invasive Cardiology II
Prereq: CVT 106, 140, 142, & SPC
205
Coreq: CVT 107 and 141
SU
3
CVT
145
Non-Invasive Cardiology Clinical II-
Applications
Prereq: CVT 106, 140, and 142
Coreq: CVT 107 and 141
SU
5
TOTAL
11
Fall Semester
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
243
Non-Invasive Cardiology III
Prereq: CVT 107, 141, and 145
Coreq: CVT 245 and 246
FA
3
CVT
246
Non-Invasive Cardiology Special Topics
Prereq: CVT 107, 141, 145
Coreq: CVT 243 and 245
FA
2
CVT
245
Non-Invasive Cardiology Clinical III
Prereq: CVT 107, 141, and 145
Coreq: CVT 243 and 246
FA
8
TOTAL
13
NOTE: Course offerings may vary by semester and year. Please consult DegreeWorks and the course search feature when
determining if the desired course is being offered in the current semester.
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Certificate in Vascular Sonography
Total
Credit
Hours:
16
Cardiovascular Technology – Vascular Sonography (CVT7)
Effective:
Spring
2021
Graduation Plan
Spring Semester
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
130
Vascular Sonography I
Prereq: Credentialed Sonographer
Coreq: CVT 131
SP
3
CVT
131
Vascular Sonography Clinical I
Prereq: Credentialed Sonographer
Coreq: CVT 130
SP
6
TOTAL
9
Summer Semester
Course
Course Description
Prerequisites/Corequisites
Semester(s)
Credit Hours
CVT
132
Vascular Sonography II
Prereq: CVT 130, 131
Coreq: CVT 133
SU
3
CVT
133
Vascular Sonography Clinical II
Prereq: CVT 130, 131
Coreq: CVT 133
SU
4
TOTAL
7
NOTE: Course offerings may vary by semester and year. Please consult DegreeWorks and the course search feature when
determining if the desired course is being offered in the current semester.
15 | Page
Invasive CVT
Approximate Fee Schedule (Subject to Change)
CVT 101 HSME $20.00 CVT Club
CVT 115 HSAF $160.50 Trajecsys Clinical Reporting
CVT 122 LABF $20.00 Lab Supplies
HBAD $35.00 Radiation Badge
CVT 223 HSPI $25.00 Pinning
HSTF $50.00 CCI Practice Exam
CVT 226 HSTF $365.00 CCI RCIS Exam
Adult Echocardiography
Approximate Fee Schedule (Subject to Change)
CVT 101 HSME $20.00 CVT Club
CVT 115 HSAF $160.50 Trajecsys Clinical Reporting
CVT 107 HSTF $225.00 ARDMS SPI Exam
CVT 142 LABF $20.00 Lab Supplies
HBAD $35.00 Radiation Badge
CVT 243 HSPI $25.00 Pinning
HSAF $100.00 Registry Review
CVT 246 HSTF $250.00 ARDMS RDCS Exam
Vascular Sonography
Approximate Fee Schedule (Subject to Change)
CVT 131 HSAF $107.00 Trajecsys
LABF $20.00 Lab Supplies
CVT 132 HSAF $100.00 Registry Review
CVT 246 HSTF $250.00 ARDMS RVT Exam
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Other Fees Estimated
Tuition See the college Academic Catalog (changes by residency)
Books Book prices vary and are subject to count
Graduation cap & gown Approximately $50.00
CPR mask/supplies/book $99.00 through Continuing Education
Background check/drug screen/medical document manager (CastleBranch)
Approximately $122.75
Uniforms/shoes Varies depending on brand and style Budget up to $300
Physical exam/Immunizations Dependent on provider
Gas for vehicle Dependent on amount of travel
mCE, ACEMAPP Dependent on Clinical Site Rotation
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CLINICAL PLAN OF EDUCATION
An emphasis of the cardiovascular technologist’s time is spent on performance of
diagnostic cardiology examinations. In order that this is accomplished in an efficient and
effective manner, the student must be thoroughly competent in cardiovascular procedures.
Students will rotate through clinical facilities to gain experience and competence in
cardiovascular procedures. Currently the Cardiovascular Technology Program has clinical
affiliation agreements with the following facilities which are subject to change at any time.
Also, facilities may elect not to accept a student any given semester.
Input is provided by the students to the clinical coordinator on what sites they are most
interested in and the justification for those choices. The clinical coordinator will take the
student’s input into consideration when choosing sites that will assist them in meeting
their clinical objectives.
Facility
Invasive
Adult Echo
Vascular Sono
Aiken Regional Medical Center
√
√
AnMed Health
√
√
√
Augusta University Adult & Pediatrics
√
Cardiovascular Imaging of Aiken
√
Doctor’s Hospital
√
√
Bon Secours St. Francis Downtown Gvl
√
√
Lexington Medical Center including Heart
and Vascular Office
√
√
√
Medical University of South Carolina
(Providence and Charleston Locations)
√
√ Charleston
Only
Newberry County Memorial Hospital
√
Prisma Health (Midlands, Upstate, and
Laurens Locations)
√
√ Laurens
Only
Roper St. Francis, Charleston
√
Self Regional Healthcare
√
√
√
Spartanburg Regional Health System
√
√
√
St. Mary’s Athens, GA and Lavonia, GA
√
√
The Regional Medical Center of
Orangeburg & Calhoun Counties
√
√
Clinical Travel
Due to the fact that experiential sites are throughout South Carolina and northeast Georgia, there
is no guarantee that placement will be at a facility close to each student’s home. Prior
arrangements should be made by the student to ensure reliable transportation to and from
experiential sites throughout the course of this program.
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Policy regarding students being paid during clinical
The JRC-CVT does not recommend that students receive financial compensation during their
clinical hours. However, the JRC-CVT does not feel that financial compensation is prohibited by
Standard V.C. It is the responsibility of the program to document in written form how each student
who is financially compensated during clinical hours is able to achieve the clinical course learning
objectives and is able to participate in unscheduled learning opportunities (e.g., to observe or
participate in an unusual or educationally important clinical case). The program is also required to
document that each student who is performing compensated work is working under the direct
supervision of an appropriately credentialed technologist.
Each student must be clearly identified as a student during all clinical hours even if being
financially compensated. Students are required to wear identification that clearly shows the name
of the program, the name of the student, and the status of student.
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Registry Credentialing Agencies
Following the successful completion of the Cardiovascular Technology program graduates seek
credentialing from either of the following:
Cardiovascular Credentialing International www.cci-online.org
Credentialing exams offered:
• Registered Cardiac Invasive Specialists (RCIS) – Invasive Program
• Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) – Adult Echo Program
American Registry in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) www.ardms.org/
Credentialing exams offered:
• Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) – Adult Echo Program
• Registered Diagnostic Vascular Technologist (RVT) – Vascular Sono Program
To earn the RDCS and/or RVT credentials, you must pass the Sonography Principles &
Instrumentation (SPI) examination and the corresponding specialty examination (Adult
Echocardiography or Vascular Technology) within a five-year period. Adult Echocardiography
students will be eligible to take the SPI exam following successful completion of both Non-
Invasive Physics courses. The Adult Echocardiography students will be eligible to take the Adult
Echocardiography (AE) Specialty Exam up to 60 days prior to graduation. Passing the SPI exam
and the AE Specialty Exam will result in earning the RDCS credential at the time of graduation.
For current policies, regarding the registry process, refer to the credentialing website. Of note,
the ARDMS will only recognize a student’s application under prerequisite 2 for one-year post-
graduation so the graduate must pass the registry exam within one year or apply under a
different prerequisite.
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The Definition of the Cardiovascular Profession
A Cardiovascular Technologist is a health care professional who, at the direction of a licensed
physician, performs diagnostic tests that are used in the diagnosis, treatment, and serial follow-up
of patients with cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular Technology is a title used to describe basic
areas of expertise: Invasive Cardiology and Adult Echocardiography. The role of the
Cardiovascular Technologist includes, but is not limited to one of the following:
Invasive Cardiovascular Technology
• Assisting the physician in the performance of diagnostic and interventional cardiac
catheterization and angiography procedures, and measuring cardiovascular
parameters such as cardiac output, blood flow velocity, cardiovascular dynamics,
cardiac electrophysiology parameters, intracardiac shunt detection, and valve
flow/valve area determinations.
• Preparing, calibrating and operating medical instrumentation utilized in the cardiac
catheterization laboratory, open-heart surgical suite and cardiac research facilities.
Adult Echocardiography & Vascular Sonography
• Patient information assessment, evaluation, education, and communication
• Record, analyze, determine, and interpret the protocol for the diagnostic examination
using ultrasonographic tools and instrumentation
• Evaluation and documentation of the diagnostic examination results
• Participation of quality improvement programs
• Maintains a safe environment of care
Scope of Practice and Clinic Standards
Invasive Cardiovascular Technologist Professional
The Society of Invasive Cardiovascular Professionals (SICP) drafted the following scope of
practice and clinical standards for invasive cardiovascular technologist.
SCIP Scope of Practice
and Clinical Standards for the Invasive Cardiovascular Technologist
Adult Echocardiographer and Vascular Sonographer Professional
A number of professional organizations in the field of diagnostic medical sonography
collaborated and drafted the scope of practice and clinical standards for diagnostic medical
sonographers which includes diagnostic cardiac sonographers and vascular
sonographers/technologists.
Scope of Practice and Clinical Standards for the Diagnostic Medical
Sonographer
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Professional Code of Ethics
Invasive Cardiovascular Technologist
SCIP Code of Ethics for Registered Invasive Specialists
Adult Echocardiographer and Vascular Sonographer
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
SDMS Code of Ethics for the Profession of Diagnostic
Medical Sonographers
Occupational Risk
Invasive Cardiovascular Technologist
According to an article titled Occupational Health Risks in Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory
Workers from 2016, Orthopedic strain and radiation exposure are recognized risk factors in
personnel staff performing fluoroscopically guided cardiovascular procedures. The primary
risks mostly related to work activity and radiation exposure included orthopedic illnesses (back,
knee, and neck), cataract, skin lesions, and cancers, particularly in workers with longer duration
of occupational work. Note that proper ergonomics and radiation safety is taught to students
and radiation monitoring is monitored for each student to ensure they are within the acceptable
range.
Another occupational risk in the cardiac catheterization lab is blood borne pathogens. The
students are educated on blood borne pathogen risk and prevention annually through the Care
Learning course.
Adult Echocardiographer and Vascular Sonographer
According to the 2016 Industry Standards for the Prevention of Work-Related
Musculoskeletal Disorders in Sonography, A 2009 study indicated 90% of clinical sonographers
experienced symptoms of Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs). WRMSDs are
painful injuries affecting the muscles, nerves, ligaments, and tendons of sonographers and other
users of diagnostic medical sonography. WRMSDs develop gradually over a period of time from
repeated exposure to risk factors and are among the most frequently reported cause of
restricted or lost work time. WRMSDs can impose a substantial personal toll on those affected
since they may no longer be able to work or perform simple personal tasks and activities of daily
living. Preventing injury or managing the progression of symptoms can be achieved by
improving working posture and the ergonomics of the work environment. Note that proper
ergonomic technique is taught to students and the students are assessed on proper ergonomics
throughout the entire echocardiography program.
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Piedmont Technical College Cardiovascular Technology
Policy For Managing Pregnant Radiation Worker/Students
Revised: Dec. 2011/JAA
Female employees/students of childbearing age shall be informed of these policies pertaining to
pregnant radiation workers. In briefing the employees/student, the following points shall be
addressed by the supervisor or departmental director.
(1) An occupationally exposed radiation worker who is currently wearing a personnel monitor
may choose to declare her pregnancy. If she declares, it must be in writing to the Radiation Safety
Officer (shown below). The declaration must be signed and include an estimated date of
conception. (A simple declaration statement is attached).
(2) A declared pregnant radiation worker/student will be issued a second personnel monitor,
which will be positioned under the protective apron at the waist or pelvic level. The exposure on
the second monitor shall be maintained on a separate record and identified as exposure to the
embryo/fetus.
(3) During the gestation period, the maximum permissible dose to the embryo/fetus, due to the
occupational exposure of declared pregnant worker/student, should not exceed 0.5 rem (500
mrem). (Required by the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control RHB 3.4 Exposure
for special groups. 3.4.2- Exposure to pregnant workers., and recommended by the National
Council of Radiation Protection, report No. 91)
(4) By practicing good radiation safety habits it is usually not necessary to make changes in work
assignments for the declared pregnant radiation worker/student. However, should a pregnant
employee’s/student’s monthly fetal dose report exceed a guideline of 50 mrem/ month; her work
assignment may be changed at the sole discretion of the Piedmont Technical College. Such
changes could result in a change of assigned working hours and/or pay status.
(5) If by the time the pregnant radiation worker/student declares her pregnancy, the dose to the
embryo/fetus has exceeded 0.45 rem (450 mrem) (as determined from the whole body personnel
monitor), a decision for work (rotation) reassignment will be up to the supervisor or department
director. This will be done to keep any additional dose to the embryo/fetus from exceeding 0.05
rem.
(6) Should the declared pregnant radiation worker/student have any questions about the
radiation exposure to the embryo/fetus or potential consequences please have the supervisor
contact the Radiation Safety Officer.
Radiation Safety Officer: Lynn Cathey
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Cardiovascular Technology
Acknowledgement of Radiation Risk During Pregnancy
I, __________________ do acknowledge that I have received counseling from
, regarding my student responsibilities during my pregnancy.
It is clear to me that there is a vanishingly small probability that my clinical rotation will in
any way adversely affect my pregnancy. The reading material listed below has been made
available to me to demonstrate that the additional risk during my pregnancy is less than
that for most occupational groups. I further understand that, although I may be assigned to
low exposure duties and provided with a second radiation monitor, these are simply added
precautions and do not in any way convey that any rotational assignment in this
curriculum is especially hazardous during pregnancy.
1. Stewart C. Bushong. X-Rays and Pregnancy. Radiologic Science for Technologist. St
Louis, 1997.
Pg. 502-503.
2. NCRP Report No 105 Dose Limits for the Embryo and Fetus, National Council on
Radiographic
Protection and Measurement, Washington, DC 1989.
3. Richard Carlton, Radiation Exposure and Pregnancy, Principles of Radiographic
Imaging. New York,
2001. Pg 525
4. NCRP Report No 53: Review of NCRP Radiation Dose Limit for Embryo and Fetus in
Occupationally- Exposed Women. National Council on Radiation Protection and
Measures, Washington, DC 1977
Student Signature __________________________________________________
Program Instructor Signature _________________________________________________
Dean of Health Science and Nursing Signature ______________________________________________
Date _______________________________________
23 | Page
Invasive Cardiology Professional Society
Alliance of Cardiovascular Professionals: www.acp-online.org
Echocardiography Professional Societies
American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) website: www.asecho.org
South Carolina Society of Echocardiographers (SCSE) website: www.scsecho.org
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) website: www.sdms.org
Vascular Sonography Professional Societies
Society for Vascular Ultrasound website: https://www.svu.org/
South Carolina Society for Vascular Ultrasound: https://www.svu.org/south-carolina-
society-of-vascular-ultrasound/
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) website: www.sdms.org
PTC Clubs and Organizations
Clubs and Organizations at PTC are listed in the College Academic Catalog and can be
assessed at the following link
https://www.ptc.edu/college-resources/clubs-
organizations .
CVT Club
Membership is required and students are expected to be active participants within the
club. Additionally, other memberships are encouraged. Students are also encouraged to
become involved in community events and participate in fund raising where monies are
designated for CVT related community projects. Officers will be elected.
Lambda Nu Honor Society
Lambda Nu is the national medical imaging honor society which recognizes students who
have demonstrated exemplary academic achievement in the Radiology and Imaging
Sciences. Lambda Nu promotes research, investigation and commitment beyond minimal
program requirements. The Alpha Gamma Chapter of Lambda Nu is open to full-time
radiology and imaging sciences students who have a professional course GPA of 3.5 or
Higher after four semesters with evidence of professional commitment beyond minimum
requirements of the program. To learn more about Lambda Nu, go
to: https://www.lambdanu.org. Advisor: Lena Scott/(864) 941-8618/Scott.l1@ptc.edu
