History and Structure of the Cath Lab (Chapter 1)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to the history, structure, teams, certifications, procedures, and communication in the Cath Lab as presented in the lecture notes.

Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab)

A facility where diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac catheterization and related endovascular procedures are performed; part of the cardiovascular institute and typically run by a multidisciplinary team.

Invasive Cardiovascular Laboratory (ICVL)

A modern, multidisciplinary environment for invasive cardiovascular procedures, staffed by radiology technologists, cardiovascular technologists, nurses, physicians, and other professionals.

RCIS

Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist; credential from Cardiovascular Credentialing International for staff working primarily in the catheterization laboratory.

RCES

Registered Cardiovascular Electrophysiology Specialist; credential from Cardiovascular Credentialing International for electrophysiology team members.

Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)

Organization that offers registry exams and credentials (e.g., RCIS, RCES) for cardiovascular professionals.

Drug-eluting Stent (DES)

A stent coated with medication to prevent restenosis; first DES (Cypher) by Johnson & Johnson became available in 2002.

In-stent Restenosis

Narrowing of a vessel inside a previously placed stent; historically a problem that DES technology aims to reduce.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

A minimally invasive procedure to replace the aortic valve via a catheter; first performed in 2002 and has expanded rapidly.

Minimally Invasive

Procedures performed with smaller incisions and less trauma than open surgery.

Multidisciplinary Team (ICVL team)

A team composed of physicians, nurses, radiology technologists, cardiovascular technologists, and other allied health professionals.

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

Certifying body for radiologic technologists; radiology staff in the cath lab may hold ARRT credentials.

Charge Nurse

Nurse who coordinates the team, communicates with the physician and floor, and ensures the room and case are ready.

Cath Lab Support Roles (Monitor, Circulator, Scrub)

Key support roles: Monitor technologist (patient monitoring), Circulator (nurse in the room coordinating care), and Scrub nurse (assists with instruments and prep).

Endovascular Procedures

Procedures performed within the vascular system (e.g., catheter-based diagnostics and interventions) throughout the cardiovascular system.

Ancient Catheterization

Early use of metal tubes by Egyptians ~5,000 years ago to relieve bladder obstructions, representing primitive catheterization.

Stephen Hales Catheter Measurements

In 1711, Stephen Hales used catheters to measure blood pressure in different cardiac chambers of live animals.

Pounds to Kilograms Conversion

Unit conversions commonly used in the Cath Lab: 1 kg = 2.2 lb; example: 145 lb ≈ 66 kg.

French to Millimeters Conversion

Catheter sizing uses French units: 1 Fr = 1/3 mm; e.g., 6 Fr ≈ 2 mm, 8 Fr ≈ 2.6 mm.

Catheter (General)

A slender flexible tube inserted into the body to drain fluids, inject substances, or measure pressures.

Professional Dialogue

Clear, precise communication with patients and team; use proper titles; maintain calm, confirm steps, and ask questions when unsure.