participant warrants it. Data entry and integration of the biomedical equipment is demonstrated and
practice sessions are conducted.
A modular approach to training is used where the technologists are given classroom lecturesusing slide presentations and familiarization with each piece of equipment in a classroom session. The
technologist learns how to use the blood pressure monitor and to obtain heart rate and blood pressure
readings in one session. Another session is used to familiarize the technologists with the operation of the
treadmill and programmable controller. Other classroom sessions are used to train technologists in
procedures for asking questions, giving explanations, and reading scripts. Once the technologists are
exposed to modular aspects of the treadmill test procedures in the classroom setting, practice sessions are
moved to the mobile examination center (MEC). Here the technologists are given an opportunity to
complete a practice treadmill on a classmate. This provides an opportunity for the technologist to
experience a treadmill test from the participant’s perspective and to practice the test in a low stress
situation. Volunteer participants are used for the latter part of training to expose technologists to a variety
of individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups, and who are not familiar with the protocol.
At the end of the training session, each technologist is given a written exam and atechnologist competency form is completed. The technologists must pass the written exam and complete
all the competencies on the form before being cleared to conduct the treadmill test. Technologists who do
not pass the exam or have not completed all competencies will be given additional training and testing on
aspects of the procedures that need more attention. A debriefing session is held at the end of training and
technologists are given individual and group feedback on performance.
6.2.2 Annual Retraining
Annual retraining is conducted over a 2-day period onsite in the MECs. Topics for thesesessions includes protocol changes that have been started within the last year, staff requests, and
procedures that have caused problems or have been noted on quality control visits. A CIAR consultant
and the Westat project staff person conduct these sessions. The retraining is given on both an individual
and group level. Each technologist is observed for a minimum of two treadmill tests and is individually
questioned on specific protocol issues and is questioned on responses or actions that should be taken to
specific scenarios.