Cardiac Cath Lab Spotlight – Interview with Katie Hansen, BSN, RN, PCCN – Nurse Clinicial Practice Leader, Cardiac Cath Lab Exeter Hospital

Team & Culture

Question: How would you describe the team and culture within the Cardiac Cath Lab at Exeter Hospital?

“The Cardiac Cath Lab team at Exeter Hospital fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie while maintaining the highest professional standards. We work collaboratively in a supportive, fun, and approachable environment. Our team is caring, skillful, and compassionate, treating every patient with dignity, respect, and individualized attention.”

Question: What makes this team unique compared to other cardiac or procedural environments you have worked in?

“I have personally “grown up” in this Cath Lab—it is the only Cath Lab I have worked in—so it can be difficult for me to define what makes us unique. What I can confidently speak to, however, is the feedback we receive from others. Our patients frequently describe our team as fun, caring, and intelligent, and often remark that they can tell we genuinely enjoy our work, our patients, and one another. Travel staff consistently compliment our teamwork, leadership, and group dynamics, and many choose to return for multiple assignments. Our cardiologists treat us with respect and value the skills, experience, and perspectives our staff bring to the table.”

The Role & Day-to-Day Work

Question: What does a typical day look like for a Cardiovascular Technologist in the Cardiac Cath Lab?

“Exeter’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab currently operates as a single-procedure-room lab and is a designated ACC PCI Center, providing 24/7 coverage for emergency cardiac interventions. The daily role of a cardiovascular technologist in the CCL is dynamic and variable. Technologists assist cardiologists with diagnostic and interventional cardiac catheterizations, including left and right heart caths, as well as pacemaker and AICD implants, temporary pacemaker wires, and pericardiocentesis. The techs also support vascular providers with peripheral vascular angiograms and angioplasties, fistulagrams, and temporary and tunneled catheter placements.

On a typical day, the lab performs one to three scheduled outpatient procedures, with add-on inpatient cases interspersed throughout the day. As a single-room lab, flexibility and readiness are essential, as emergency cardiac patients may arrive through the Emergency Department at any time, requiring rapid coordination and response to change gears in the procedure area.”

Question: How does this role contribute directly to patient care and outcomes?

“CVT &/or RT experienced in cardiovascular angiography are an integral part of the operations of a cath lab. They assist physicians by preparing and maintaining sterile equipment, anticipating procedural needs, and making technical suggestions – such as but not limited to equipment selections, x-ray positioning and imaging options. CVTs/ RTs are a vital part of the team continuously monitoring the patient, angiography, as well as hemodynamic data. Every task the CVT/RT maintains must be with high alertness, and promptness that only comes with experience and exposure to various cardiovascular procedures. At any moment even the most basic procedure can go awry; our CV techs are vital to ensure quick and flexible pivoting skillsets to ensure patients’ safety and integrity.”

Leadership & Support

Question: As the Director, how do you approach leadership and supporting your team?

“As the CCL Nurse Manager, my leadership style is rooted in leading by example. I strive to support my team by being present, approachable, and willing to step in when needed, while fostering a culture of respect, teamwork, and shared accountability. Candidates joining our team can expect supportive leadership, mutual respect, and the opportunity to be part of a high-performing Cath Lab.”

Question: What do you value most in Cardiovascular Technologists who are successful on your team?

“The qualities I value most in a Cardiovascular Technologist include a desire to share knowledge with others while maintaining the willingness to learn. Those who take initiative while also recognizing when to ask for help or seek guidance are essential to this type of work environment. Above all, I value individuals who prioritize patient safety and the safety of their coworkers, and who contribute to a supportive, collaborative Cath Lab environment.”

 Closing / Personal Perspective

Question: What is one thing you are most proud of when it comes to your team or the care delivered in the Cardiac Cath Lab?

“I am incredibly proud of the care our staff consistently provides to the patients in our community, day in and day out. Every member of this team is someone I would trust to care for myself and my loved ones. I hold each team member in high regard and deeply value the experience, knowledge, and dedication they bring to our group.”