"Working in the catheter labs is very exciting, especially during an angioplasty."

From a young age, Samanatha was interested in the workings of the heart, and chose biology, chemistry and physical education as her A level subjects.

Samantha Thorn

Trainee healthcare scientist

Employer or university
University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust

I’m qualified to perform a range of diagnostic cardiac tests such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), exercise tolerance tests, ‘tilt’ tests, and 24-hour heart monitors. Every day is different and I interact with patients both in clinics and on the wards.

I am also a key part of the team during cardiac procedures like angiograms, angioplasty (mechanically widening narrowed or obstructed arteries) and pacemaker implantation. I monitor the patient’s physiology, using ECG interpretation and blood pressure monitoring from inside the heart.

Working in the catheter labs is very exciting, especially during an angioplasty. It’s extremely rewarding to know I’ve played a part in the procedure and helped to stabilise the patient.

I studied for a BSc Hons degree in Healthcare Science, specialising in cardiac physiology (PTP). Doing a clinically based degree meant there was a lot more to it than lectures and exams. Time on placement allowed me to put into practice what I’d learnt on the course.