The Evolving Role of the Cardiac Physiologist in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory: A Questionnaire-Based Study

Cardiac physiologists play an increasingly important role in the cardiac catheterization laboratory (cath lab), supporting physiological monitoring, procedural safety and device-related services. This study assessed the perceived contributions and challenges of cardiac physiologists working in cath labs.

A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among cardiac physiologists. The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, clinical responsibilities, perceived contributions to patient safety and procedural outcomes, challenges, and measures for professional strengthening. Responses were summarized using descriptive statistics.

Eight cardiac physiologists participated; 75% were aged 20–29 years, 62.5% were female, and 87.5% held bachelor’s degrees. Most (75%) had 1–3 years of professional experience, and 75% worked in teaching hospitals. All respondents reported involvement in coronary angiography, PCI, structural heart procedures, IVC filter procedures, temporary pacing, and permanent pacemaker, ICD and CRT implantation. All respondents strongly agreed that their role contributes significantly to patient safety. Seven respondents (87.5%) strongly agreed that continuous ECG and haemodynamic monitoring improve procedural outcomes and early complication detection, respectively. Similar high agreement was observed for multidisciplinary communication, procedural efficiency, device programming and follow-up, PCI, and structural interventions. Major challenges included limited training opportunities (100%), limited professional recognition (87.5%), limited career progression (87.5%), and staffing/workload constraints.

Cardiac physiologists contribute substantially to patient safety, procedural support and quality cardiovascular care in the cath lab. Structured specialized training, clearer role definition, professional recognition, adequate staffing, mentorship and career progression may further strengthen their contribution.