Starting off
​
Set yourself goals
What would you like to achieve in 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, etc.?
I recommend when beginning CIED training aiming to achieve independence in checking and implanting
-PPMs and ILRs by 6 months
-ICDs by 9 months and
-CRTs by 12 months
This will of course vary on your hospitals case load
​
Keep a log
It is a great idea to keep logs to accurately assess how may cases you have been involved in and reflect back on interesting checks.
For example you could keep logs on the following;
-Clinics
-ILR implants
-PPM implants
-ICD implants
-CRT implants
-Educational presentations/in-services
-Interesting checks
​
Responsibilities
Be clear on your responsibilities as a pacing tech.
This may vary within your department compared to others.
Ensure you are across protocols for CIED management within different areas of your hospital (e.g., MRI, radiation oncology, ect)
​
Company reps
Get in contact with your hospitals company reps.
Reps should know their companies' algorithms inside out and they tend to have access to fantastic educational material.
For complex device algorithm functions you may be referred on to the company’s tech services.
​
Programmer versatility
Get familiar with the different programmer brands.
Some of the manufacturers have demos on their programmers, which may be useful in familiarising yourself with the interface.
​
Equipment
Investigate what equipment (sheaths, leads, devices, etc.) is stocked in your hospital.
Doctors may have different preferences to each other. Making a list may help familiarise yourself when you are starting off.
If a patient is coming up for a generator replacement, ensure the appropriate device/device header is on the shelf for the day of the procedure.
Older/rare device headers (e.g., 03 or 06 headers) may need to be organised days before the procedure to ensure ample time to arrive.
​
Exam preparation
Unfortunately currently in Australia, there are no current professionally reconised courses for CIED management.
The only available option to be recognised as a qualified CIED tech is to complete the IBHRE certification exam.
​
List important dates
Note exam dates and any social commitments.
​
Schedule study sessions
Set aside time in your schedule to study.
Plan ahead what topics you want to cover and when. Leaving everything until the last minute (cramming) may increase stress and decrease the likelihood of retaining key details.
Be flexible with study sessions, as something may pop up last minute.
It may be useful to find a study partner or study group to share ideas and practice together.
​
Breaks/rest/switching off
It is crucial to have study/learning free days to completely switch off.
Be sure to take regular breaks.
It is critical to take care of yourself. Be sure to prioritise sleep, healthy eating and exercise to minimise stress and increase mental cognition.
​
Active learning
Test yourself with your friends and colleagues.
Create flash cards to help test yourself.
Stick notes/diagrams around your residence to help consolidate information (my toilet door was covered in study material).
​
Study environment
Setting up an effective study environment is so important.
Limit distractions (phones, block social media, etc.), quiet, good lighting, good smells and comfortable.
Listening to music may be a hinderance to some people.
Do not have a tv on.
​
Practice exams
Get your hands on as many practice exams as you can.
Practice under real exam conditions (silence, timeframe, etc.).
​