CIRCC study plan

Map the catheterization laboratory equipment chain from patient entry to imaging display, labeling each component's function

Trace normal blood flow through all four chambers, valves, and great vessels from memory on a blank diagram

Define each hemodynamic term (pressure, resistance, flow, cardiac output, stroke volume) in your own words

List the coronary arteries and their major branches with the myocardial territory each supplies

Explain how pressure waveforms are generated and transduced, including damping and artifact sources

Differentiate the phases of the cardiac cycle and state which pressures change in each phase

Describe the pathology and hemodynamic consequences of at least six common cardiac conditions

Compare normal versus abnormal waveform morphology for aortic, ventricular, and atrial pressures

Sequence the steps of a diagnostic left heart catheterization from access to sheath removal

Identify the equipment used for arterial and venous access and state the purpose of each item

Explain the indications, contraindications, and complications of coronary angiography

Describe how contrast media properties affect image quality and patient risk

Compare guiding catheters, guidewires, and balloon/stent delivery systems by design feature and clinical use

Outline the steps of a percutaneous coronary intervention including lesion assessment and stent deployment

List radiation safety principles (time, distance, shielding) and apply them to a simulated case

Identify the components of a sterile field setup and the breaks in technique that require correction

Describe how to set up and troubleshoot a pressure transducer and flush system

Explain the operation and hazards of the intra-aortic balloon pump and other circulatory support devices

Outline emergency management of contrast reaction, vasovagal response, and access-site bleeding

Match commonly used procedural medications to their indications, typical doses, and monitoring requirements

Explain informed consent requirements and how to verify them before a procedure

Describe patient assessment and monitoring before, during, and after catheterization

Identify the correct response to arrhythmias, hypotension, and equipment failure in the lab

Describe infection control practices specific to the catheterization laboratory

Answer timed mixed-domain practice sets and log every missed item by domain and error type

Re-teach your three weakest concepts aloud or in writing without notes

Reconcile conflicting facts across your study sources and resolve each with a verified reference

Build a personal high-yield fact sheet limited to two pages

Complete two full-length timed practice exams under test-day conditions

Review every missed question and identify the underlying knowledge gap rather than the answer

Drill the two-page high-yield sheet to full recall

Confirm exam-day logistics, timing strategy, and rest plan