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EKG techs are in high demand! These five easy steps will help you get the training and certification you need to become an EKG tech and start your new career!
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Introduction
EKG techs are in high demand due to the aging population and the rise in cardiovascular diseases. An EKG tech is a medical professional who performs electrocardiogram tests, which measure the electrical activity of the heart. If you’re interested in becoming an EKG tech, here are five easy steps to get started:
Step 1: Complete a formal education program
EKG techs must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but many employers prefer applicants who have completed a formal education program. There are many accredited EKG technician programs available, both online and offline. These programs typically take around two semesters to complete and include both classroom and clinical components.
Step 2: Become certified
While certification is not always required, it can give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs. The most common certification for EKG techs is the Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) credential offered by the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). To earn this credential, you must pass an examination that covers topics such as cardiac anatomy and physiology, electrocardiography, and medical ethics.
Step 3: Gain work experience
Many employers prefer candidates who have some work experience, so it’s a good idea to complete an internship or volunteer in a hospital or clinical setting before applying for jobs. This will give you the chance to learn firsthand about the daily duties of an EKG tech and see if it’s the right career for you.
Step 4: Apply for jobs
Once you have completed your formal education and gained some work experience, you’re ready to start applying for jobs. There are many job openings for EKG techs across the country; you can search for open positions on job boards such as Indeed or Monster, or through hospital websites.
Step 5: Advance your career
If you want to further your career in the medical field, there are many options available to you. You could complete a bachelor’s degree program in cardiovascular technology or pursue a master’s degree in business administration with a healthcare concentration. Alternatively, you could become certified as an advanced practice cardiac technologist (APCT). This credential requires more extensive training and experience than the CCT credential; however, it can open up more job opportunities and lead to higher salaries.
Step One: Research
The first step to becoming an EKG tech is to research the field and learn what the job entails. You should are required to have an understanding of basic anatomy and physiology, as well as knowledge of medical terminology. It is also beneficial to have experience working with electronic medical equipment.
Step Two: Complete an accredited training program
EKG techs must complete an accredited training program that offers both classroom and clinical instruction. During your clinical rotations, you will learn how to properly handle and maintain EKG equipment, as well as how to perform EKG tests on patients.
Step Three: Pass the Certification Exam
After completing your training, you will need to pass a certification exam in order to become a certified EKG tech. The exams are administered by either the American Society of EKG Technicians (ASET) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Step Four: Apply for a Job
Once you are certified, you can begin applying for jobs at hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. To increase your chances of being hired, you may want to consider completing a voluntary certification from the American Heart Association (AHA).
Step Five: Maintain Your Certification
EKG techs are required to renew their certification every two years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the certification exam.
Step Two: Prerequisites
The first step to becoming an EKG tech is to make sure you have the right prerequisites. Most importantly, you’ll need to have your high school diploma or equivalent. You’ll also need to be at least 18 years old and have a clean criminal record.
Once you’ve met these basic requirements, you can begin the process of becoming an EKG tech. The first step is to complete an accredited EKG training program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, technical schools, and even some hospitals. During your training, you’ll learn how to perform EKG tests, interpret results, and work with patients.
Once you’ve completed an accredited EKG training program, you’ll be eligible to take the certification exam offered by the American Heart Association (AHA). Passing this exam will certify you as an EKG technician, and allow you to begin working in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
Step Three: Training
Congratulations! You have completed your coursework and are now ready to start your training. During this process, you will learn how to operate the EKG machine and how to correctly interpret the results. You will also become familiar with the different types of EKGs that are performed and how to prepare the patient for the procedure. This process can take anywhere from four to six weeks, and you will be required to complete a certain number of hours in order to be eligible for certification. Once you have completed your training, you will be ready to take the next step in your career!
Step Four: Certification
EKG techs are not required to be certified in order to work, but many employers prefer or require certification. Certification shows that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job correctly and safely. Certification also may give you a leg up on the competition when you’re applying for jobs.
There are several organizations that offer certification for EKG techs, but the most common is the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). To be eligible for certification, you must have completed a training program or have at least one year of experience working as an EKG tech. You also must pass an exam.
If you’re interested in becoming certified, contact the NHA or another certifying organization to get more information about eligibility requirements and the process for taking the exam.
Step Five: Maintaining Your Certification
maintaining Your Certification
EKG techs must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits on a regular basis. The number of credits required and the frequency with which they must be completed will vary depending on the certifying organization, but is typically between 10 and 30 credits every two to three years. There are a variety of ways to earn continuing education credits, including taking courses offered by community colleges, universities, and private training organizations, as well as attending seminars and conferences. Many certifying organizations also offer online courses that can be completed at your convenience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming an EKG tech is a great career choice for those who are detail-oriented and have a passion for helping others. By following the steps outlined above, you can be on your way to a fulfilling career in the medical field in no time.
