the Pulse From the President Mid Year Update and Change to Qualification Pathway for RCIS Credential

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1 A Publication of Cardiovascular Credentialing International Summer 2011 the Pulse From the President By Douglas L. Passey, RCES, RCIS Mid Year Update and Change to Qualification Pathway for RCIS Credential By the time this issue of CCI s quarterly newsletter, The Pulse, has reached you our staff and members of our Board will have wrapped up exhibiting at 4 of the 7 largest professional society meetings of the year. While the CCI team does exhibit at local and regional professional society meetings frequently, there are 7 conferences that annually make up the bulk of our exhibiting focus. The first meeting of the year was the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) meeting which was held in San Francisco, CA. The cardiovascular field of electrophysiology has seen tremendous growth over the past few years, including the first CAAHEP accredited cardiac electrophysiology educational program. This program at Lancaster General College of Nursing and Health Sciences, is led by CCI Board Member and Chair of the RCES Examination Committee, Mrs. Lisha Esbenshade-Smith. In early June, members of CCI s headquarters attended the New Cardiovascular Horizons (NCVH) meeting held in New Orleans, LA. NCVH is a conference that brings together key cardiovascular disciplines that focus on a team approach to total cardiovascular care in patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). A few weeks after NCVH, the CCI team sent representatives to Montreal, Canada for the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) Annual Scientific Sessions as well as to Chicago, IL for the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU) Annual Conference. During the ASE Annual Scientific Sessions David Adams, a member of CCI s Board of Advisors, was awarded the first ever Sonographer Lifetime Achievement Award by the ASE. We congratulate David on this prestigious award and thank David, as well as the numerous other leaders in the sonography field whose hard work and dedication has assisted CCI in administering record setting numbers of sonography (RCS and RVS) credentialing examinations in the first six months of In the upcoming months representatives of CCI can be found speaking with current Registrants as well as potential applicants at the following conferences: Society of Invasive Cardiovascular Professionals (SICP) July 28-30, 2011 in Boston, MA Electrophysiology Innovations Congress (EPIC) September 9-11, 2011 in Arlington, VA South Atlantic Society for Electrophysiology for Allied Professionals (SASEAP) September 16-18, 2011 in Myrtle Beach, SC Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) September 22-25, 2011 in Atlanta, GA American College of Phlebology (ACP) November 3-6, 2011 in Los Angeles, CA Changes to Qualification Pathways for the RCIS Credentialing Examination The CCI Board of Trustees made the decision to change the RCIS examination qualifications after consulting with organizations and members of the invasive cardiovascular professional community. CCI recognizes the need for formal education; this is consistent with minimum standards for professional licensure and elevates the overall status of the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) credential. The RCIS credential is the only internationally recognized credential which demonstrates the obtainment of all the skills and knowledge required to function in the continued on page 12 1

2 CCI Board of Trustees & Senior Staff BOARD OF TRUSTEES President Douglas L. Passey, RCES, RCIS President Elect / Executive Exam Committee Chair James J. Shafer, BS, RCS, RVS, RVT Treasurer Ken Horton, RCIS, RCS, RDCS, FASE Secretary Marsha Roberts, RCS, RDCS, FASE Immediate Past President Christopher M. Nelson, RN, RCIS, FSICP Non-Invasive Echo Exam Committee Chair Marsha Roberts, RCS, RDCS, FASE Invasive Exam Committee Chair Erik W. Hushelpeck, RCIS, FSICP Electrophysiology Exam Committee Chair Letitia P. Esbenshade-Smith, RCES, RCIS Vascular Exam Committee Chair Sharon R Whitcraft, RCS, RVS, RVT Phlebology Exam Committee Chair Jeannie White, RPhS, RVT Cardiac Congenital Exam Committee Chair Elaine A Shea, RCCS, RCIS, RCS, FASE Certificate Level Exams Committee Chair Sally Elliott, CCT, CRAT, RCIS Public Member Philip M. (Mel) Snyder, IV BOARD OF ADVISORS The following organizations nominate a representative of their cardiovascular specialty field to sit on the CCI Board of Advisors. American College of Cardiology (ACC) Joseph Messer, MD, MACC American College of Phlebology (ACP) Nick Morrison, MD, FACS, FACPh, RPhS Joe Zygmunt, RPhS, RVT American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) Allan L. Klein, MD, FRCP(c), FACC, FAHA, FASE Richie Palma, RCS, RDCS, FASE Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) Joseph Babb, MD, FCCC, FACC, FSCAI Society of Invasive Cardiovascular Professionals (SICP) Tracy Simpson, RCIS, FSICP Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU) Gail Size, BS, RPhS, RVS, RVT, FSVU Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) David Adams, RCS, RDCS, FASE Member At Large Theodore C. Christman, RCIS, RCS, RDCS, RVS, RVT Honorary Board Member - Historian Dennis K. Carney, RCIS, RCS, FASE SENIOR STAFF Executive Director Aaron S. White Associate Executive Director and Examination Coordinator Jerel Noel Director of Communications and Editor of The Pulse Christine Johnson Director of Operations Katesha Williams Executive Assistant Valerie Hunter CCI Item Writing Summit Held in Dallas, Texas On Saturday, April 30, 2011, CCI hosted an Item Writing Summit at the Hyatt Regency in Dallas, Texas. The summit was held to orient new volunteers for the various CCI committees. Volunteers participated in the summit along with committee chairs and other CCI leaders. The following information was presented: Overview of CCI History and Operations Item Writing 101 Exam Studio 101 Following the presentations, the participants participated in break out item writing sessions with the chairs and/or members of the item writing committees to work on drafting items. CCI would like to thank the following professionals for committing their time to participate in the 2011 Item Writing Summit: Karen Chin Adult Echocardiography Lisa Cannon Vascular Ultrasound Aaron Fister Adult Echocardiography Mary Beth Georges Vascular Ultrasound Erik Hushelpeck Invasive Lee Ann Johnson Invasive Joe Kreeger Congenital Ultrasound Travis Nay Invasive Douglas Passey Invasive Interested in Volunteering as an Item Writer? The Pulse and CCI are trade names of CCI. The Pulse is copyrighted by CCI and authorization to photocopy items for internal or personal use is granted by CCI. Opinions expressed in The Pulse are not necessarily those of the CCI Board of Trustees, its agents, editors, advertisers or anyone connected with the publication. CCI assumes no liability or responsibility for any claims, actions or damages resulting from publication of any article. CCI does not endorse nor recommend any review course or review material. Cardiovascular Credentialing International 1500 Sunday Drive, Suite 102, Raleigh, NC phone: ; fax: (919) Marsha Roberts Adult Echocardiography EJ Sanchez, M.D. Phlebology Gail Size Vascular Ultrasound Jay Shafer Vascular Ultrasound Kathy Sleeker Congenital Ultrasound Ted Smith, M.D Phlebology Sharon Whitcraft Vascular Ultrasound Jeannie White Phlebology Roy Yarris Rhythm Analysis/EKG We would also like to present you with an opportunity to assist in the growth of the industry in another way, by becoming a contributor to a CCI Examination Committee. CCI is currently seeking registrants to become item writers for each of the credentialing examinations we offer. The item writer position will require you to assist the Examination Committee Chairperson and Committee by submitting questions to be considered for use on the credentialing examinations. Item writers are chosen not only by the score which they earned on their credentialing examination, but also based on geographic region, educational background and work experience. Little or no travel is required with this position. If you are interested in becoming an item writer, please submit your Curriculum Vitae (CV) to CCI headquarters, attention Jerel Noel, 1500 Sunday Dr., Suite 102, Raleigh, NC or by to jnoel@cci-online.org. All CVs will be reviewed and applicants will be contacted with further questions if required Cardiovascular Credentialing International. All rights reserved. 2

3 RCIS On-the-Job Training Pathway to Sunset for New Applicants Effective July 1, 2013 June 1, 2011 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Cardiovascular Credentialing International to Sunset On-the-Job Training as Qualification Pathway for Invasive Registry Examination Effective July 1, 2013, Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) will officially remove the RCIS1 Qualification (also referred to as the On-the-Job Training qualification) that allows applicants who ONLY have two (2) years (full-time or full-time equivalent) working in Invasive Cardiovascular Technology, at the time of application, to qualify for CCI s Invasive Registry examination. The Invasive Registry examination is the required examination for the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) credential. The CCI Board of Trustees made this decision to change examination qualifications after consulting with organizations and members of the invasive cardiovascular professional community. CCI recognizes the need for formal education in this field of practice; this is consistent with minimum standards for professional licensure and elevates the overall status of the RCIS credential. Applicants who wish to apply for the Invasive Registry examination under qualification pathway RCIS1 will have to submit their application by or before June 30, 2013 to be considered. Applications based on the RCIS1 qualification, postmarked after June 30, 2013 will not be processed and will be returned to the applicant instructing him or her to apply under the available qualification pathways. At this point, there is no foreseen change to the remaining RCIS qualification pathways (RCIS2, RCIS3, RCIS4, and RCIS5). This change in qualification pathways ONLY affects the RCIS credential, no changes to qualifications for any other CCI credential are being made at this time. The Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) credential is the only internationally recognized credential which demonstrates the obtainment of all the skills and knowledge required to function in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. The RCIS credential is administered and governed by CCI. The RCIS credentialing program is accredited by the American National Standards Institute under the International Standards Organization s ISO/IEC accreditation guidelines. CCI is a not-for-profit corporation established for the purpose of administering credentialing examinations as an independent credentialing agency. CCI began credentialing cardiovascular professionals in If you would like more information about this topic, please visit or contact CCI Director of Communications, Christine Johnson, at or Christine at cjohnson@cci-online.org. Please rest assured you have my complete support for this initiative. I believe this action is absolutely essential as the final remaining step to professional legitimacy for the RCIS credential. Thank you and your staff for your continued endeavors on our behalf. George L. Nelson, Jr. RCIS, RCP Coordinator ICVT Program El Centro College I think the sunsetting of the two year on the job training pathway is a step in the right direction for RCIS professionals. It further iterates the need for formal education and brings more prestige to individuals who hold the RCIS credential and to the exam itself. Tiffini Strickland, RT(R), RCIS Cardiovascular Technology Program Chair Central Georgia Technical College CCI Staff Spotlight Shawn Walker Shawn Walker joined CCI in November 2010 as a Registrant Services Specialist. Shawn is a native of Washington, D.C. and graduated from Shaw University in 2006 with a Bachelor Degree in Social Work. As a member of the CCI Registrant Services Department, Shawn processes weekly exam results and mails lapel pins, New Registrant Toolkits, and wallet cards to newly credentialed Registrants as well as new wallet cards to renewing registrants. Shawn also answers questions regarding registrants CEU status, renewal expiration dates and ensures that database information is correct in each registrant s records. Shawn has been married to her best friend and college sweetheart since 2006 and they have a wonderful six year old son and two dogs. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, exercising, and shopping. 3

4 CCI Launches New Registrant Toolkit New Login to the CCI Website Did you know that on the CCI website you can? In May CCI began mailing a New Registrant Toolkit to newly credentialed registrants in their results packet. It contains an abundance of information for a new registrant including: ANSI Accreditation Sample Elevator Speeches Proper Use of Your Credential Maintaining Your Credential s Active Status Value of Continuing Education Why the Code of Ethics is Required Why We Pay Renewal Fees Join Societies and Get Involved And a Sample Press Release Announcing New Credential. Check the # of CEUs you have submitted Pay your renewal fees Update your contact information Apply for new examinations online Print a copy of your wallet card Print a copy of your certificate Use the appropriate button to login. You must know your CCI # and password to login to the website. Welcome to Cardiovascular Credentialing International Congratulations on earning your credential! Contribute to The Pulse Submit articles to thepulse@cci-online.org Logos and photos must be high resolution. NEW REGISTRANT TOOLKIT For those of you who did not receive one, but are interested to read it, please visit Registration is now open for the 2011 SDMS Annual Conference! The 2011 SDMS Annual Conference is coming early this year! The SDMS Annual Conference will be held in September this year; make sure you register before July 15, 2011 to receive early bird rates! 2011 SDMS Annual Conference Sept , 2011 Everyone has Georgia on their mind! Make your plans to attend the 2011 SDMS Annual Conference, September 22 25, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. Don t miss this opportunity to earn more than 24.5 CME credits while learning about the newest advances in the field of sonography. A Peach of A Package Save $75 off registration fees if you register for both a Thursday tutorial and the three-day conference. It s a Peach of a Package! Go to to register online for the 2011 SDMS Annual Conference. NEW Registry Review Tutorial! This year we will hold the first SDMS Registry Review course. The session will be held on Thursday, September 22. The course will be broken into five 90 minute sessions focusing on Physics and Instrumentation, Doppler and Hemodynamics, Basic Abdomen, Obstetrics followed by a question and answer session. The course will provide a broad overview of the topics to help individuals who are in the process of preparing for the registry exams. Topics selected for presentation are aligned with major outline topics in the SDMS series of National Certification Examination Review (NCER) books. While the attendees are not required to purchase the NCER books, they will be useful during the Review and as valuable take-away resources. For optimal learning from this course, it is expected the attendee will have a foundation in normal anatomy and physiology, instrumentation, and scan techniques. Switching in and out of this course will not be permitted. AC2011 half page ad-color.indd 1 4 5/31/2011 9:46:02 AM

5 Advocacy Corner CCI and Advocacy A CARE Bill Update Gail Size, RPhS, RVS, RVT, FSVU and Ken Horton, RCIS, RCS, RDCS, FASE are CCI s advocacy representatives. Their role is to review legislation at the state and national levels, ensure credentialing is the minimum standards for invasive and non-invasive medical imaging and to ensure CCI is identified as a credentialing body. CCI is a recognized member of the following organizations: The Alliance of Quality Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (AQMIRT) In 1997 the American Society of Radiation Therapy (ASRT) began an aggressive campaign to protect patients against radiation overexposure and decrease the costs of health care. They have since introduced the bill know as the Consistency, Accuracy, Responsibility, and Excellence in Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy; otherwise know as the CARE BILL. The Sonographer Licensure Coalition (SLC), is a group of sonographers based associations, led by the SDMS that monitors licensure activities at the state level. The Coalition for Quality in Ultrasound (CQU) is a group of Sonographer-based organizations led by the SDMS that monitors the development of reimbursement criteria and continues to address the current limited LMRP and LCD requirements for mandatory Sonographer certifications and/or lab accreditation as a condition of payment. CARE Bill Update The CARE bill, H.R. 2104, currently has 34 Senate cosponsors (15 republicans, 19 democrats). The groups are aggressively working to build the cosponsor list primarily by the members on the Energy & Commerce Committee. This will remain a prime focus until after the August congressional recess. In the Senate: We ve been assured that when the CARE bill picks up steam in the House, Senators Tom Harkin (IA) and Mike Enzi (WY) are ready to introduce it and move it through committee. The CARE Bill was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on June 2, 2011 as H.R The bill already has 19 cosponsors, including its primary sponsor, Rep. Ed Whitfield [R-KY]. Other CARE bill cosponsors are: Rep John Barrow [GA-12], Rep Leonard L. Boswell [IA-3], Rep Steve Cohen [TN-9], Rep Gerald E. Gerry Connolly [VA-11], Rep John J. Duncan, Jr. [TN-2], Rep Brett Guthrie [KY-2], Rep Ralph M. Hall [TX-4], Rep Gregg Harper [MS-3], Rep Martin Heinrich [NM-1], Rep Eddie Bernice Johnson [TX-30], Rep Walter B. Jones, Jr. [NC-3], Rep Dale E. Kildee [MI-5], Rep Ron Kind [WI-3], Rep Leonard Lance [NJ-7], Rep Mike McIntyre [NC-7], Rep Sue Wilkins Myrick [NC-9], Rep Laura Richardson [CA-37], and Rep Bobby L. Rush [IL-1]. We are hopeful that Congress will take action on Care Bill prior to December What can you do? Grassroots advocacy is an important part of your commitment to your profession and its goals. By letting lawmakers know how you feel about the issues, you can help our collective voice achieve a greater impact. Visit the American Society of Radiologic Technology (ASRT) at and enter your zip code. Your representative s name will appear along with a standard message. The message box is editable for your additional comments. Write them TODAY! You can download the HR 2104 and find out more information about our advocacy efforts at If you have any specific questions you may contact Ken at khorton@ccionline.org or Gail at gsize@cci-online.org. Annual SASEAP Workshop for EP Allied Professionals Join the annual gathering of EP Professionals facilitating learning, networking, and unhurried discussions of new products and practices in the world of Electrophysiology. Learn more about preparing for the RCES exam administered by CCI. The workshop is September 16-18, 2011 in Myrtle Beach. The session is designed for EP Registered Nurses and Allied Professionals. Both experienced professionals and newcomers will find something of interest. New parallel sessions let you focus on your interests and stay within your comfort level. There are separate tracks for office EP professionals and new (Basic) or experienced (Advanced) hospital EP professionals. Certificates for ANCC contact hours or ASRT Category A credits will be provided to attendees. While the workshop focus is on continuing education and networking, there will be ample time to take enjoy yourselves in Myrtle Beach. Go to for more information. 5

6 Congratulations to New Fellows of the American Society of Echocardiography (FASE) New 2010 FASE recipients listed below are new FASE members from the March, June, September and December 2010 cycles. The American Society of Echocardiography is an organization of professionals committed to excellence in cardiovascular ultrasound and its application to patient care through education, advocacy, research, innovation and service to our members and the public. Fellow of the American Society of Echocardiography (FASE) recognizes the dedicated ASE member with a diverse set of skills and comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of echocardiography. Clint D. Aucoin, RCS, RDMS, RVS, FASE Paul G. Berry, RCS, FASE Robert Justin Davis, RCS, FASE Lara Khairallah El Masri, RCS, FASE Evon C. Hampton, RCIS, RCS, FASE Darryl Isaac, RCCS, RDCS, FASE Aibo Jiang, RCS, RDCS, FASE Jan Mitchell Sloves, RCS, RVT, FASE For physician members of ASE the Fellow designation recognizes those members who have fulfilled both the training and performance requirements that are necessary for Certification through the National Board of Echocardiography. Attainment of this important standard of practice plus a commitment to the field of echocardiography is the foundation for the Fellow designation. For sonographer members of ASE the Fellow designation also recognizes extraordinary commitment to the field of echocardiography and achievement of credentials that demonstrate fulfillment of training and performance requirements. To review the criteria, visit Acquire New Skills Enhance Patient Outcomes Learn the most current information and techniques in the treatment of venous and lymphatic disease from nationally and internationally recognized vein care professionals at the 2011 ACP Annual Congress in Los Angeles, November 3-6, th Annual Congress November 3-6, 2011 JW Marriott at L.A. Live, Los Angeles, CA Register before 9/10/11 to take advantage of early registration rates. Session Topics Include: Varicose and Spider Vein Treatment Diagnosis and Treatment of Venous Ulcers Lymphedema and Compression Chronic Complications of DVT Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Athletes & Venous Disease Two-Day Special Interest Sessions Include: New & Emerging Technologies Insurance, Reimbursement and Appeals Marketing a Phlebology Practice Advanced Imaging: MR, CT and Advanced US The 2011 ACP Annual Congress is being held at the JW Marriott housed within the L.A. Live entertainment complex, just steps from the Staples Center, The Grammy Museum, fashionable restaurants and nightclubs, a bowling alley and ESPN s West Coast broadcast headquarters. The American College of Phlebology is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians The American College of Phlebology designates this live activity for a maximum of AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s). Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. 6

7 CCI Credential Renewals Now is the Time! CCI Credential Renewal June 30, 2011 PAST DUE The expiration date for CCI credentials by June 30, 2011 has passed! If you have not completed your renewal requirements, you have a grace period until September 30, 2011 to submit CEUs, signed Code of Ethics and renewal payment. A copy of the CCI Code of Ethics was included with your renewal invoice or can be downloaded from our website by clicking on Registrants, Code of Ethics. New Registrants credentialed between July 1 and September 30, 2010 are not required to submit CEUs. Submit only a signed copy of CCI s Code of Ethics with payment of renewal fees. The 90-day grace period is extended time to submit renewal paperwork. A late fee of $50.00 will be assessed to all registrants who submit their renewals during the grace period. Please be aware that CEUs must have been earned during the triennial cycle. CEUs earned during the grace period will not be accepted but will be credited towards your next triennial cycle. If renewal requirements are not completed by September 30, 2011, registrants status will become inactive and registrants will be required to retest to regain an active status. Effective January 1, 2011, all inactive registrants are required to pass the one-part Registry exam. Submitting CEUs from an approved site does not mean that they are automatically accepted. Registrants who hold Registry credentials need to submit 36 CEUs, 30 of which must be cardiovascular related CEUs to complete the renewal process. Certificate level registrants are required to submit 16 CEUs. Please refer to our website and click on Links and Resources, CEU Providers. Applicants may retake the Registry exam at any time during their triennial, with no penalty at a reduced cost, to satisfy their CEU requirement. Exam must be completed and passed before end of triennial cycle. We urge our registrants who have not submitted the required CEUs, signed Code of Ethics form and renewal payment to do so prior to September 30, 2011 to avoid retesting. SVU 2011 Meetings Fall RPVI Exam Review Course September 23-25, 2011, Harrah s Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, NV 2011 Legislative, Regulatory & Reimbursement Issues Course November 4-5, 2011, Hilton Crystal City Hotel Crystal City, VA CCI Credential Renewal September 30, 2011 The expiration date for CCI credentials by September 30, 2011 is now due! If you have not completed your renewal requirements, you have a grace period until December 31, 2011 to submit CEUs, signed Code of Ethics and renewal payment. A copy of the CCI Code of Ethics was included with your renewal invoice or can be downloaded from our website by clicking on Registrants, Code of Ethics. New Registrants credentialed between October 1 and December 31, 2010 are not required to submit CEUs. Submit only a signed copy of CCI s Code of Ethics with payment of renewal fees. The 90-day grace period is extended time to submit renewal paperwork. A late fee of $50.00 will be assessed to all registrants who submit their renewals during the grace period. Please be aware that CEUs must have been earned during the triennial cycle. CEUs earned during the grace period will not be accepted but will be credited towards your next triennial cycle. If renewal requirements are not completed by December 31, 2011, registrants status will become inactive and registrants will be required to retest to regain an active status. Effective January 1, 2011, all inactive registrants are required to pass the one-part Registry exam. Submitting CEUs from an approved site does not mean that they are automatically accepted. Registrants who hold Registry credentials need to submit 36 CEUs, 30 of which must be cardiovascular related CEUs to complete the renewal process. Certificate level registrants are required to submit 16 CEUs. Please refer to our website and click on Links and Resources, CEU Providers. Applicants may retake the Registry exam at any time during their triennial, with no penalty at a reduced cost, to satisfy their CEU requirement. Exam must be completed and passed before end of triennial cycle. We urge our registrants who have not submitted the required CEUs, signed Code of Ethics form and renewal payment to do so prior to December 31, 2011 to avoid retesting. Jobs, Jobs, Jobs Do you have job postings for CCI registrants? Send the details to Katesha Williams at kwilliams@cci-online.org for posting on the CCI website. They will remain posted for up to 90 days unless you notify us the position has been filled. There is currently no charge for job postings. Jobs must require at least one CCI credential. Are you looking for a job? Did you know CCI has job postings on our website? They are updated frequently at 7

8 Book Review Electrocardiography for Healthcare Professionals ISBN-10: ISBN-13: Thomas E. O Brien, AS, CST, CCT, CRAT is a full-time faculty member teaching Cardiovascular Basic Studies at Central Florida Institute in Palm Harbor, Florida. He is also a subject matter consultant and credential exam writer working with Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) for the Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) and Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT) Examinations. His background includes over 24 years in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army Medical Corps. Tom O Brien s medical career as an Air Force Independent Duty Medical Technician (IDMT) has taken him all over the United States and the world. Tom has several years of experience working in the Emergency Services and Critical Care arena. He was awarded Master Instructor status by the U.S. Air Force in 1994 upon completion of his teaching practicum. He now has over 15 years of teaching experience; subjects include Emergency Medicine, Cardiovascular Nursing, Fundamentals of Nursing, Cardiac Dysrhythmia and 12-Lead ECG Interpretation. Tom is actively involved in book proposals, and he reviews for a number of publishers, including Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, F.A. Davis and Lippincott, Williams, and Wilkins. His current position provides challenges with the day-to-day development of curriculum to meet the ever-changing needs of the medical community and to provide first-rate education to a diverse adult education population. The new third edition of Electrocardiography for Healthcare Professionals was designed not just for classroom but also for independent and distance learning. Checkpoint Questions and student CD exercises correlated to the Learning Outcomes make the learning process interactive and to promote increased comprehension. The variety of materials included with the program provides for multiple learning styles and ensures that you will be a success. The text/workbook/cd is divided into 14 chapters: Chapter 1 Role of the Electrocardiographer introduces you into the field of electrocardiography and helps to promote the various roles in the field. You will also learn about the history and how ECGs are used. Chapter 2 The Cardiovascular System provides a complete introduction and review of the heart and its electrical system. The information focuses on what you need to know to understand and perform an ECG. Specific topics include anatomy of the heart, principles of circulation, cardiac cycle, conduction system and electrical stimulation, and the ECG waveform. Chapter 3 The Electrocardiograph creates a basic understanding of the ECG, including producing the ECG waveform, the ECG machine, electrodes, and the ECG graph paper. Chapter 4 Performing an ECG describes the procedure for performing an ECG in a simple step-by-step fashion. Each part of the procedure is explained in detail, taking into consideration the latest guidelines. The chapter is divided into the following topics: preparation, communication, anatomical landmarks, applying the electrodes and leads, safety and infection control, operating the ECG machine, checking the tracing, reporting results, and equipment maintenance. Extra sections are included regarding pediatric ECG, special patient circumstances, and emergencies. Procedure checklists are included to practice performing both an ECG and continuous monitoring. Chapter 5 Rhythm Strip Interpretation and Sinus Rhythms introduces the five-step criteria for classification approach to rhythm interpretation that will be utilized throughout chapters 5 to 10. Updated rhythm strip figures, explanations, and checkpoint questions help the student learn to interpret the sinus rhythms, including criteria for classification, how the patient may be affected, basic patient care, and treatment. Chapter 6 Atrial Dysrhythmias provides an introduction to and interpretation of the atrial dysrhythmias, including criteria for classification, how the patient may be affected, basic patient care. and treatment. Chapter 7 Junctional Dysrhythmias provides an introduction to and interpretation of the junctional dysrhythmias, including criteria for classification, how the patient may be affected, basic patient care, and treatment. Chapter 8 Heart Block Dysrhythmias provides an introduction to and interpretation of the heart block dysrhythmias, including criteria for classification, how the patient may be affected, basic patient care, and treatment. Chapter 9 Ventricular Dysrhythmias provides an introduction to and interpretation of the ventricular dysrhythmias including criteria for classification, how the patient may be affected, basic patient care, and treatment. Chapter 10 Pacemaker Rhythms and Bundle Branch Block provides an introduction to pacemaker rhythms, evaluation of pacemaker function, and complications related to the ECG tracing. An introduction to bundle branch block dysrhythmias, including criteria for classification, how the patient may be affected, basic patient care, and treatment, is also included. Chapter 11 Exercise Electrocardiography provides the information necessary to assist with an exercise electrocardiography. The competency checklist provides the step-by-step procedure for the student to become proficient at the skill. Chapter 12 Ambulatory Monitoring includes the latest information about various types of ambulatory monitors and includes what you need to know to apply and remove a monitor. A competency checklist is also provided for this skill. Chapter 13 Clinical Management of the Cardiac Patient expands upon the anatomy of the coronary arteries and relates them to typical and atypical cardiac symptoms. STEMI, non-stemi, and heart failure are introduced. The chapter finishes with assessment, immediate care, and continued treatment of the cardiac patient. Chapter 14 Basic 12-Lead ECG Interpretation provides a basic introduction to the concept of 12-lead ECG interpretation. It includes anatomic views of the coronary arteries on the 12-lead ECG, and the morphologic changes of ischemia, injury, and infarction. Axis deviation, bundle branch block, and left ventricular hypertrophy round out the chapter concepts. 8

9 Advancing AdvAncing Device device Technologies and And Techniques in Rhythm RhyThm management Management Register before July 1 to take advantage of the early-bird discount! Co-sponsored by september 9 11, 2011 Hyatt regency crystal city Washington, dc Attend the epi congress, the world s premier conference for advancements in cardiac device technologies and techniques. EPI Congress brings together experts in the field of rhythm management, including electrophysiologists (EPs), electrophysiology-allied professionals, implanting cardiologists, and fellows. Attendees of this 2.5-day meeting will have a chance to explore the latest in state-of-the-art device technologies and techniques, interact with peers and industry, and share difficult cases with our distinguished faculty. Cutting-edge sessions presented by renowned thought leaders will explore the very latest in electrophysiology, including the following sessions: Endocardial Versus Epicardial Pacing: Is the Endocardium Better or Just More Accessible? Subcutaneous ICDs Extraction Versus Venoplasty to Add a Lead Remote Monitoring for Devices: Where Are We Now and Where Are We Going? Lead Extraction: Indications, Procedures, and Complications Is Lead Extraction Required Before Implanting an MRI-Safe System? course co-directors seth j. Worley, Md, FHrs, Facc EPI Congress, Co-Director Interventional Implant Program Lancaster General Hospital President and Director of Electrophysiology Research Lancaster Heart and Stroke Foundation Lancaster, PA sponsored by cardiovascular Learning network, a naccme initiative Media sponsor: EP Lab Digest. Kenneth a. ellenbogen, Md, Facc, FHrs EPI Congress, Co-Director Kontos Professor of Medicine Chairman, Division of Cardiology Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine Richmond, VA Supported in part by an educational grant from Boston Scientific. intended Learners This activity is designed for EPs, cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, fellows, and electrophysiology-allied health professionals. Learning Objectives After attending the EPI Congress 2011, participants should be able to do the following: 1. Discuss the clinical use of devices for patient care in the context of current guidelines and recommendations. 2. Describe the importance of an interventional approach to left ventricular- (LV-) lead implantation, including the use of vein selectors, guide support, anchor balloons, snares, and venoplasty to reduce implant time and avoid the need for surgical LV-lead placement. 3. Outline the current and future indications for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). 4. Implement strategies to avoid and address CRT nonresponders. 5. Discuss the importance of lead size, shape, and position in optimizing patient outcomes. 6. Identify the indications for and alternative approaches to lead extraction. 7. Recognize the role of current and emerging pharmacologic and device interventions to prevent stroke and treat cardiac arrhythmias. accreditation * nurses: North American Center for Continuing Medical Education, LLC (NAC- CME) is an approved provider of continuing nursing education by the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation. This continuing nursing education activity was approved for 15.0 contact hours. Provider approved by the california board of registered nursing, Provider #13255 for 15.0 contact hours. radiologic technologists: Approved for 15 ARRT Category A CE Credits by AHRA. Physicians: North American Center for Continuing Medical Education, LLC (NAC- CME) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. NACCME designates this live activity for a maximum of 15 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. *Accreditation information pertains only to the main conference; accreditation information for the satellite symposia will be provided separately. accreditor: North American Center for Continuing Medical Education, LLC. For CE inquiries, contact NACCME at , ext Off-label uses of drugs and devices: Off-label uses of drugs and/or devices will be disclosed in the participant materials. ada statement: North American Center for Continuing Medical Education complies with the legal requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the rules and regulations thereof. If any participant in this educational activity is in need of accommodations, please contact Kristen Jassin at Copyright 2011 by North American Center for Continuing Medical Education, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this accredited continuing education activity may be reproduced or transmitted. Denny Angelle 9

10 SICP Update SICP s New England Symposium & Annual Meeting By Nicole Shore, Executive Director, Society of Invasive Cardiovascular Professionals Here is a glance at what is planned for SICP s 2011 New England Symposium on July in Boston, MA: Featuring the following activities! Skills Lab by Terumo Interventional Systems Through didactic presentations and hands-on demonstrations the attendee will have the opportunity to gain exposure/experience in the following areas, radial access, catheter and wire selection for various anatomical situations, tips and tricks and complex cases review. Coordinated by Sandra Schaffer & Daniel Martin with the support of Terumo Interventional Systems Wet Lab The objective of this presentation is to facilitate hands on learning experience of gross cardiac anatomy. With this experience the participant will be able to associate anatomical structure with cardiac physiologic and hemodynamic findings. Additionally, the participant will be able to correlate cardiac structural pathophysiology and the associated challenges present in interventional cardiology. Coordinated by Sally Elliott, RCIS. SICP s New England Symposium will also feature SICP s Signature RCIS Review Course and the newly launched Signature RCES Review Course The SICP Signature RCIS Review Course is designed to review information for the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) invasive registry exam. This course will help you identify areas in which you need to concentrate your self study, or will serve as an overview for those who are preparing to take the exam. Topics will include but are not limited to: Cardiovascular Diseases, Hemodynamics, Calculations, 12 Lead EKG, Patient Care & Assessment, Cardiovascular A&P, Pharmacology and Radiation Safety. The SICP Signature RCES Review Course is designed to offer a review to the Allied Health Professional of information for the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) electrophysiology registry exam. The objective of the course is to offer a comprehensive review of content assessed on the RCES registry. This review may enlighten areas of need as well as serve as a refresher for other areas. Topics will include but are not limited to: Cardiovascular Diseases, Hemodynamics, Calculations, 12 Lead EKG, Egrams, Diagnostic Electrophysiology, Ablation Physics I&II and Pacemaker/ICD Implant & Evaluation. Nicole Shore, SICP Executive Director Legislative Update We will focus on legislative issues facing the invasive cardiovascular professional. You will be updated regarding RCIS legislation and other legislative activities that can affect the Registered Invasive Cardiovascular Specialist. Discussion will follow regarding what you can do in your area. Educators Round Table A session for educators by educators. This session will feature a Q&A with the SICP JRC-CVT representative and CCI. Session will feature other discussion topics such as: Lecture Information bank and sharing, SICP student Participation, Technology/simulation in the classroom. Managers Retreat We will focus on leadership issues in the cath lab, such as staff recruitment, retention and patient satisfaction. Reserve Your Room Secure your room today at the special rate of $119 a night! Call the Boston Marriott Quincy at Use the promotional code SICP to receive the discounted rate. This special room rate expires July 13, 2011 so make your reservations today! To and From Boston is home to Boston Logan International Airport; with flights from all over the country arriving daily. You can also rent a car from one of many available companies at Boston- Logan to move you throughout the city. The airport is just 12 miles away from the Quincy hotel. Register Now! Register online today at or download a copy of the registration brochure and mail or fax to SICP. Mail to: 1500 Sunday Drive, #102 Raleigh, NC Fax to:

11 SICP Important Dates! SICP s 2011 New England Symposium & Annual Meeting July 28-31, 2011 Boston, MA TCT November 7-11, 2011 San Francisco, CA SCAI May 9-12, 2012 as Vegas, NV NCVH June 6-9, 2012 New Orleans, LA RCIS Scope of Practice has been revised as of 10/10 and it is now available online at CCI is on Facebook! Thank you to the over 1,100 people who like CCI on Facebook. Like us at STUDY ULTRASOUND ALL THE THEORY YOU NEED TO PRACTICE VASCULAR TECHNOLOGY AND ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY AND BE SUCCESSFUL ON THE REGISTRY *MOST COURSES ARE WORTH 30 CME CREDITS* (Central Time) (Atlantic Time) First ASE Sonographer Lifetime Achievement Award to CCI Board of Advisors Member David Adams David B. Adams, RCS, RDCS, FASE of Duke Medical Center in Durham, NC received the first Sonographer Lifetime Achievement Award. This award recognizes a cardiac sonographer who has played a luminary role in the field of echocardiography, and is an ASE sonographer member with FASE recognition who has a minimum of 20 years in the field. David B. Adams, RCS, RDCS, FASE A Navy Corpsman from , David came to Duke as a student in 1979, just before graduating from the first class of the Non-invasive Cardiovascular Technical Program at Spokane Community College in Spokane, Washington. After graduating, David briefly (3 months) worked at Mercy Hospital in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania but has been at Duke since December David s wealth of knowledge is expansive within all aspects of ultrasound and he is very much sought after for guidance in practice approach design, workflow, and ergonomics. Congratulations! Sentara College of Health Sciences holds RCES Review Course The Sentara College of Health Sciences in Chesapeake, Virginia hosted the nation s first Electrophysiology/Invasive Review course on June 11-12, Approximately 100 allied health professionals from across the nation attended this completely vendor sponsored event. Topics discussed focused on Cardiovascular Credentialing International s (CCI) exam matrices for both the RCES and RCIS exams fashioned in break-out sessions over the two day review course. Volunteer speakers included Mike Buie, RCIS, CCDS, CEPS, Sally Elliott, CCT, CRAT, RCIS, Jon Grammes, MD, Megan Hunsinger, RCIS, Linda Rosenwald, RCIS and Deepak Talreja, MD. In addition to speaking pro bono, all speakers donated their work to the Society of Invasive Cardiovascular Professionals (SICP) building a signature review course for the RCES exam which is now available to all allied health professions through the professional society. Vendor support showcased in a vendor hall included Arstasis, Boston Scientific, St Jude Medical, CCI, SICP, Abbott Vascular, and Medtronic. With this vendor support participants enjoyed a fully funded well organized event. CCI does not endorse nor recommend any review course or review material. 11

12 PRSRT-STD US POSTAGE P A I D RALEIGH, NC PERMIT #1854 Cardiovascular Credentialing International 1500 Sunday Drive, Suite 102 Raleigh, North Carolina CCI Board of Advisors Member Richie Palma to Receive SDMS Distinguished Educator Award Richie Palma, RCS, RDCS, FASE is the Director and Clinical Coordinator of the Hoffman Heart Institute of Connecticut School of Cardiac Ultrasound in Hartford, Connecticut. Congratulations on your upcoming award! The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) is dedicated to recognizing and honoring exceptional sonography educators. The SDMS Distinguished Educator Award honors exceptional educators in the field of diagnostic medical Richie Palma, RCS, RDCS, FASE sonography. Recipients must be a full-time educator in a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or Canadian Medical Association (CMA) accredited program with at least five years of teaching in academic diagnostic medical sonography or cardiovascular sonography. Must be a current Active member of SDMS in good standing for at least ten (10) continuous years. From the President continued from page 1 cardiac catheterization laboratory. The RCIS credential is earned by associate professionals working in the area of cardiac catheterization. In June of 2011, the CCI Board of Trustees approved the decision to sunset (i.e. close) the qualification pathway for the RCIS credential that allows individuals with no formal education and ONLY two years of onthe-job training to sit for the RCIS credentialing examination. Please note that this change ONLY affects the RCIS credentialing process, no other CCI credential will be affected. The sunsetting of this qualification pathway will be enacted on July 1, 2013 giving associate professionals working in the cardiac catheterization laboratories two years to qualify and apply for the RCIS credentialing examination. The official press release can be found in this issue of The Pulse. Look for CCI advertisements in Cath Lab Digest, EP Lab Digest, Vein Therapy News, and VEIN magazine.