Feb 26, 2026

Heart Health Month Spotlight: Supporting Cardiac Care Professionals

Heart Health Month Spotlight: Supporting Cardiac Care Professionals

February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular health and recognize the professionals who care for patients with heart conditions every day. Across hospitals and specialty care units, cardiac teams play a critical role in diagnosing, monitoring, and treating one of the nation’s leading health concerns.

For facilities, this time of year can also mean increased cardiac caseloads. For travel healthcare professionals, it represents meaningful opportunities to step in and make an impact where they’re needed most.

Growing Demand in Cardiac Care

The need for skilled cardiovascular professionals remains steady nationwide.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

●       Employment of cardiovascular technologists and  echo technicians is projected to grow 3% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

●       Approximately 3,800 openings for cardiovascular technologists and echo technicians are projected each year over the decade, largely due to retirements and workforce transitions.

●       The median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and echo technicians was $67,260 in May 2024.

Cardiac nurses fall within the broader Registered Nurse category. The BLS projects overall RN employment to grow 5–6% from 2024 to 2034, reflecting continued demand for specialized nursing skills. Cardiac and CVICU nurses often earn higher-than-average RN salaries, frequently exceeding $90,000–$120,000 annually, depending on experience and specialization.

While growth percentages may appear moderate, replacement needs and an aging population continue to create consistent openings, particularly in high-acuity cardiac settings.

High-Impact Cardiac Roles in Demand

Cardiac RNs

Cardiac nurses work across telemetry units, step-down units, CVICUs, and cath labs. They monitor patients with heart disease, manage post-procedure care, administer cardiac medications, and respond rapidly to emergencies.

With increasing rates of hypertension, heart disease, and aging-related cardiovascular conditions, facilities rely heavily on experienced cardiac RNs to maintain safe staffing ratios, especially during peak census periods.

Cath Lab Technologists

Cath lab techs assist physicians during cardiac catheterizations, stent placements, and other interventional procedures. Their technical expertise and ability to work in high-pressure environments are essential for patient safety and procedural efficiency.

As interventional cardiology procedures continue to expand, demand for skilled cath lab professionals remains strong, particularly in facilities experiencing staffing gaps due to retirements or turnover.

Echo Technologists (Cardiac Sonographers)

Echo techs perform echocardiograms that help physicians diagnose heart conditions, evaluate valve function, and monitor cardiac performance. These non-invasive diagnostic tools are foundational to early detection and treatment planning.

With cardiovascular disease remaining prevalent, echo techs play a vital role in supporting both inpatient and outpatient cardiac programs.

Why Late Winter Often Brings Higher Cardiac Caseloads

Several factors contribute to increased cardiac admissions during late winter:

●       Cold weather’s impact on blood pressure and circulation

●       Higher incidence of respiratory illness complicating heart conditions

●       Seasonal stress and lifestyle factors

●       Ongoing management of chronic cardiac disease

Facilities often feel strain during these periods, especially if vacancies or staff burnout already exist. That’s where travel cardiac professionals make a measurable difference.

How Travel Cardiac Professionals Support Facilities

Travel healthcare professionals provide flexibility and expertise when facilities need it most.

They help by:

●       Stabilizing nurse-to-patient ratios in high-acuity units

●       Supporting expanded cath lab schedules

●       Preventing overtime fatigue among permanent staff

●       Filling short-term gaps caused by retirements or leaves

●       Bringing diverse experience from multiple cardiac programs

For professionals, travel assignments offer the opportunity to:

●       Expand clinical expertise across different cardiac care settings

●       Increase earning potential in specialized roles

●       Gain exposure to advanced technologies and procedures

Make an immediate impact in communities facing staffing shortages

Honoring Cardiac Care Professionals This American Heart Month

During American Heart Month, it’s important to recognize not only the importance of heart health, but also the dedicated clinicians who deliver that care every day.

Cardiac RNs, cath lab technologists, and echo techs are essential to improving patient outcomes and responding to seasonal surges in cardiovascular cases. As workforce trends continue to evolve, travel professionals will remain a vital part of maintaining safe, high-quality cardiac care nationwide.

At Aequor, we’re proud to connect skilled cardiac professionals with facilities that need their expertise most, ensuring patients receive the timely, specialized care they deserve.

If you’re a cardiac care professional considering your next move, or a facility preparing for high-demand seasons, now is the time to plan ahead. Browse our available travel healthcare openings, and get connected with an Aequor recruiter.

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