Cardiovascular Services Team at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre

As Heart Month comes to a close, we want to take one more opportunity to recognize the dedicated professionals of our Cardiovascular Services Team. Each member plays an essential role in ensuring that cardiac patients across Northwestern Ontario receive the exceptional, compassionate care they deserve.

The Cath Lab is supported by a highly skilled, multidisciplinary team that includes Registered Nurses, Medical Radiation Technologists, a dedicated clerical and data team, and Interventional and Diagnostic Cardiologists — including a Cardiologist with a specialization in electrophysiology. Here, members of the Cath Lab team are displaying the new Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) system for advanced intra-coronary imaging to support Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), often called coronary angioplasty.

Members of the Cath Lab team are seen here displaying the new Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), a temporary mechanical, catheter-based device used in emergencies to assist a failing heart by increasing blood flow to the coronary arteries and reducing the heart’s workload.

Cardiac Diagnostics – Electrocardiogram (ECG): At Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC), Registered Cardiology Technologists (RCTs) and ECG Technicians perform electrocardiograms, providing accurate and timely cardiac assessments to support patient care and treatment planning.

Cardiac Diagnostics – Pacemaker and Device Clinic: Registered Cardiology Technologists (RCTs) in the Pacemaker and Device Clinic provide specialized support for the implantation of permanent pacemakers, working closely with the Cardiac Cath Lab team to ensure safe, precise, and effective patient care.

Cardiac Diagnostics Stress Lab: Stress tests are conducted by skilled Registered Cardiology Technologists (RCTs) and Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs), with oversight and support from Cardiologists. Here, our clinicians are pictured with our GE CASE Stress System, working together to provide accurate assessments, safe testing, and personalized care that helps patients understand their heart health and guides treatment decisions.

Cardiac Diagnostics – Echocardiogram (ECHO): Above are members of our dedicated Cardiac Sonography team who work across our three ECHO labs. Several hold dual certification as Cardiac Sonographers and Registered Cardiology Technologists (RCT), bringing advanced expertise and specialized skills to the care of our patients.

Inpatient Cardiology (2C) is supported by a dedicated, multidisciplinary team committed to delivering comprehensive cardiac care. The unit includes Registered Nurses (RNs), Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Pharmacists (RPh), Occupational Therapists (OT), Physical Therapists (PT), Social Workers (SW), Registered Dietitians (RD), clerical staff, housekeeping, Nutrition and Food Services, clinical leaders, and both General and Interventional Cardiologists — all working collaboratively to support patients throughout their hospital stay.

Cardiovascular Rehabilitation is a comprehensive program designed to help patients manage cardiovascular disease, reduce the risk of future heart-related events, and achieve a healthier, more independent lifestyle. The program is delivered by a multidisciplinary team that includes Registered Nurses, Kinesiologists, a Registered Dietitian, a Social Worker, clerical staff, and a Cardiologist. Patients may participate in a 16-week guided exercise program that incorporates education, counseling, and personalized nutritional coaching to support long-term heart health.