What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cardiac Stress Test Technician position at Atria Health Opco, Inc.?
About Tennessee Heart
Tennessee Heart is a leading cardiovascular practice dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care across a comprehensive range of diagnostic and therapeutic services. Supported by Atria Health’s management services platform, Tennessee Heart combines clinical excellence with advanced technology and operational support to improve patient outcomes and expand access to cardiovascular care across the region.
Position Summary
The Cardiac Stress Test Technician is responsible for performing non-invasive cardiac diagnostic testing, including treadmill exercise stress tests, stress echocardiograms, and nuclear stress procedures in accordance with physician orders and established clinical protocols.
This role plays a critical part in ensuring accurate data collection, maintaining patient safety, and supporting the cardiology team in delivering a high-quality patient experience.
Key Responsibilities
Testing & Patient Care
- Perform treadmill exercise stress tests and assist with stress echocardiogram and nuclear stress procedures
- Prepare patients by explaining procedures, obtaining medical history, and recording baseline vital signs
- Place ECG electrodes and ensure accurate signal acquisition
- Monitor and document heart rhythm, blood pressure, symptoms, and overall patient response during testing
- Perform pre-test assessment to determine patient appropriateness for exercise or pharmacologic stress testing
Clinical Monitoring & Safety
- Recognize and respond to cardiac arrhythmias, ischemic ECG changes, and hemodynamic instability
- Identify abnormal findings and escalate promptly to the supervising physician
- Monitor patients during recovery and provide post-test care instructions
- Ensure patient safety at all times, including rapid response to medical emergencies
Operations & Documentation
- Accurately document all testing data and clinical findings within the electronic medical record (EMR) (Altera TouchWorks)
- Ensure timely communication of results for physician interpretation and review
- Operate, calibrate, and maintain stress testing and ECG equipment
- Maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked testing rooms
Team Collaboration & Quality
- Collaborate with cardiologists, APPs, nurses, and technologists to support efficient patient flow
- Support Echo, Nuclear, and PET workflows as needed across the practice
- Ensure compliance with departmental policies, accreditation standards, and infection control guidelines
- Participate in quality improvement, patient safety, and process improvement initiatives
Required Skills
- Strong knowledge of ECG monitoring and cardiovascular physiology
- Ability to recognize arrhythmias and signs of patient distress
- Excellent communication and patient interaction skills
- High attention to detail and clinical accuracy
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-based environment
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate degree in cardiovascular technology or related field preferred
- Prior experience with cardiac stress testing or ECG monitoring preferred
Certifications
- Basic Life Support (BLS) – required
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – preferred
- Cardiographic Technician (CCT), Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT), or ACSM certification – preferred
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods
- Ability to assist patients on and off treadmill equipment
- Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations
Work Environment
- Fast-paced outpatient cardiology and diagnostic imaging setting
- Direct patient care with varying acuity levels
- Schedule may vary based on patient volume and testing demand
Tennessee Heart offers competitive compensation commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including a 401(k) match.