skillfactor-pipeline/skills/clinical-perfusion-scientist/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — clinical perfusion scientist

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 29-2031.00 (Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians).

Task statements

• [Core] Monitor patients' blood pressure and heart rate using electrocardiogram (EKG) equipment during diagnostic or therapeutic procedures to notify the physician if something appears wrong.
• [Core] Monitor patients' comfort and safety during tests, alerting physicians to abnormalities or changes in patient responses.
• [Core] Explain testing procedures to patients to obtain cooperation and reduce anxiety.
• [Core] Conduct electrocardiogram (EKG), phonocardiogram, echocardiogram, stress testing, or other cardiovascular tests to record patients' cardiac activity, using specialized electronic test equipment, recording devices, or laboratory instruments.
• [Core] Prepare and position patients for testing.
• [Core] Obtain and record patient identification, medical history, or test results.
• [Core] Attach electrodes to the patients' chests, arms, and legs, connect electrodes to leads from the electrocardiogram (EKG) machine, and operate the EKG machine to obtain a reading.
• [Core] Adjust equipment and controls according to physicians' orders or established protocol.
• [Core] Check, test, and maintain cardiology equipment, making minor repairs when necessary, to ensure proper operation.
• [Core] Supervise or train other cardiology technologists or students.
• [Supplemental] Perform general administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments or ordering supplies or equipment.
• [Supplemental] Maintain a proper sterile field during surgical procedures.
• [Supplemental] Assist physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac or peripheral vascular treatments, such as implanting pacemakers or assisting with balloon angioplasties to treat blood vessel blockages.
• [Supplemental] Transcribe, type, and distribute reports of diagnostic procedures for interpretation by physician.
• [Supplemental] Set up 24-hour Holter and event monitors, scan and interpret tapes, and report results to physicians.
• [Supplemental] Observe gauges, recorder, and video screens of data analysis system during imaging of cardiovascular system.
• [Supplemental] Operate diagnostic imaging equipment to produce contrast enhanced radiographs of heart and cardiovascular system.
• [Supplemental] Inject contrast medium into patients' blood vessels.
• [Supplemental] Observe ultrasound display screen and listen to signals to record vascular information, such as blood pressure, limb volume changes, oxygen saturation, or cerebral circulation.
• [Supplemental] Assess cardiac physiology and calculate valve areas from blood flow velocity measurements.
• [Supplemental] Compare measurements of heart wall thickness and chamber sizes to standard norms to identify abnormalities.

Detailed work activities

• Adjust settings or positions of medical equipment.
• Administer medical substances for imaging or other procedures.
• Analyze test data or images to inform diagnosis or treatment.
• Assist healthcare practitioners during surgery.
• Calculate numerical data for medical activities.
• Collect medical information from patients, family members, or other medical professionals.
• Examine medical instruments or equipment to ensure proper operation.
• Explain medical procedures or test results to patients or family members.
• Inform medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care.
• Maintain medical equipment or instruments.
• Maintain sterile operative fields.
• Monitor patient conditions during treatments, procedures, or activities.
• Monitor video displays of medical equipment to ensure proper functioning.
• Operate diagnostic imaging equipment.
• Operate diagnostic or therapeutic medical instruments or equipment.
• Order medical supplies or equipment.
• Perform clerical work in medical settings.
• Position patients for treatment or examination.
• Prepare medical supplies or equipment for use.
• Prepare patients physically for medical procedures.
• Prepare reports summarizing patient diagnostic or care activities.
• Record patient medical histories.
• Repair medical facility equipment.
• Schedule patient procedures or appointments.
• Supervise patient care personnel.
• Test patient heart or lung functioning.
• Train medical providers.