Cynthiann Filer-Whalen

Provide and manage thorough, competent interrogations by reviewing & testing battery status, confirming appropriate sensing including lead impedances, measuring lead thresholds, assessing appropriate magnet rate, checking and interpreting the Arrythmia Event logbook.

Identifying lead failures of implanted pacemaker/Automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator.

Identifying appropriate vs. inappropriate shocks in AICDs.

Program/reprogramming devices based on interrogated data of implanted pacemaker/AICD, turn on/off shock therapy for AICD.

Reprogramming LV lead to avoid diaphragmatic stimulation.

Interpreting Histograms and program rate response according to implanted pacemaker/AICD.

Making the proper changes or adjustments to Pacemaker/AICD/ILR settings or parameters as needed to enhance device performance.

Effectively and consistently troubleshoot device problems in the wide array of implantable devices.

Coordinate device electrocardiogram (EKG) tracings and compare baseline EKG data with non-device dependent EKG, review and analyze the data and summarize the information for the provider.

Work with the provider to optimize the device settings based on EKG findings. Screen patients for device complications and reprogram the device as indicated.

Evaluate stored and real time EGMs to identify arrhythmias, pacing or sensing problems, and appropriate or inappropriate device intervention for arrhythmia.

Edit and forward the final test results to the provider for analysis and interpretation before seeing the patient in clinic.

Successfully Mentored new cardiac device technicians and ongoing Medical Students in all areas of Device capabilities, monitoring and programming.

Educate patients regarding device function and clinic follow-ups.

Organize and maintain remote device monitoring process for the ongoing care more than 2,000 patients with home monitors: including daily oversight, patient instructions, and maintaining communication with patients concerning their monitoring results.

Perform and schedule remote monitoring of Pacemaker, ICD and Loop Recorder checks every 31-91 days using CareLink, Latitude, Merlin and Biotronik online tools to inform the provider of any changes and all significant/urgent problems in a timely manner.

Perform Heart Failure remote monitor checks and notify Provider of any urgent alerts.

Explain in-office testing and phone check procedures to patients who provide verbal consent of understanding post implantation.

Maintain patient 's EMR of any new office records and upload any new reports into the patient's chart.

Deliver appropriate care while recognizing patient conditions, age specific needs and ensuring successful completion of procedures.

Perform proper patient identification, acquire patient clinical history, and assure that the information is accurately documented.

Ongoing commitment to continuing education in implantable device procedures and processes (pacemaker interpretations and interrogations) offered by vendors (e.g. Medtronic, St. Jude, Boston Scientific and Biotronik).

Research EP-related studies and research projects including consents from patients, education of patients on procedures for studies, and fielding phone calls.

• Promoted a positive work environment through active collaboration with peers, supervisors, and other healthcare professionals within the facility.
• Maintained updated knowledge on cardiac arrhythmias, contributing to better patient care and monitoring outcomes.
• Mentored new staff members on proper monitor usage techniques and troubleshooting strategies for common issues encountered during daily operations.
• Troubleshot monitor equipment issues, ensuring uninterrupted surveillance of patients' heart activity.
• Analyze, measure and interpret cardiac rhythm strips for all telemetry patients in the hospital
• Chart changes, alert nursing staff of serious cardiac rhythm changes or vital changes.
• Monitored heart rhythm patterns of patients in ICU and ER.
• Managed multiple telemetry screens of cardiac monitors simultaneously maintaining attention to detail and high-quality care for all monitored patients by listening for alarms to identify abnormal variations in heart rhythm.
• Provide a baseline EKG strip per patient per unit policy.
• Measured the length and height of heart rhythm pattern on graphic tape readout using calipers.
• Utilized advanced software applications for efficient data management and analysis, contributing to improved overall workflow efficiency.
• Optimized response times during emergencies by promptly notifying appropriate staff members about concerning cardiac events or trends observed in monitoring data.
• Facilitated smooth transitions in patient care by accurately reporting pertinent information during shift hand-offs between Monitor Technician colleagues.
• Supported effective decision-making by providing real-time updates on significant rhythm changes to healthcare providers.
• Enhanced communication between healthcare providers by serving as a liaison for doctors, nurses, and patients.
• Reduced errors in medication administration by accurately transcribing physician orders into the electronic health record system.
• Supported timely discharge processes for patients by coordinating necessary paperwork and follow-up procedures.
• Maintained patient confidentiality by adhering to HIPAA guidelines and updating patient information in a secure manner.
• Aided in emergency response situations by providing vital information to healthcare providers regarding patient history or current condition.
• Managed inventory levels of medical supplies within the unit, ensuring adequate stock was available to meet daily needs without excess waste or shortage issues arising.