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So, you want to become an EKG Technician? Here’s what you need to know! We’ll give you an overview of the steps you’ll need to take to become certified and start your new career.
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Introduction
EKG technicians are in high demand in hospitals, clinics and physician’s offices across the country. As our population ages, the need for qualified technicians to perform electrocardiogram testing will only increase. An electrocardiogram, also known as an EKG or ECG, is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. It is used to detect heart abnormalities and to monitor heart health.
EKG technicians are responsible for hooking patients up to the machine and ensuring that the test is performed properly. They must be able to properly interpret the results of the test and provide them to the physician in a timely manner.
Becoming an EKG technician requires completing a training program that typically lasts between six and eight weeks. Some programs can be completed online, but most require attendance at a physical location. Upon completion of the program, students will take a certification exam administered by either the American Society of Echocardiography or the National Board of Echocardiography. Once certified, EKG technicians can begin their career in a hospital, clinic or physician’s office.
What is an EKG?
An electrocardiogram—abbreviated as EKG or ECG—is a test that detects cardiovascular problems by measuring the electrical activity of the heart. An EKG is generally used to detect abnormal heart rhythms, heart attacks, and other heart conditions.
EKG technicians are responsible for hooking patients up to electrocardiogram machines and monitors, administering the test, and then removing the electrodes from the patient’s skin. They also typically interpret the results of the test and may provide them to a physician or other healthcare provider.
EKG technicians typically need at least a high school diploma although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must complete on-the-job training. Most states regulate EKG technicians and require them to be licensed or certified.
The Three Steps to Becoming an EKG Technician
The first step to becoming an EKG Technician is to have a high school diploma or equivalent. The second step is to attend an accredited EKG Technician program. The third and final step is to obtain certification from either the National Healthcare Association or the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians.
Step One: Education
Most EKG technicians have at least a high school diploma, although some employers may prefer or require an associates degree in medical assisting or a related field. Although certification is not always required, many EKG technicians choose to become certified through organizations such as the American Society of Clinical Pathology or the National Healthcare Association.
Step Two: Training
EKG technicians typically receive on-the-job training from a more experienced technician, nurse, or doctor. Training generally lasts for a few weeks to a few months and may include both classroom instruction and hands-on experience.
Step Three: Certification
Although certification is not required in all states, many employers prefer or require certification. Certification can be obtained through organizations such as the American Society of Clinical Pathology or the National Healthcare Association.
Step Two: Certification
After you have completed a training program, the next step to become an EKG technician is to obtain certification. Although not required in all states, employers often prefer or require certification. In addition, some states may require certification for licensure. The most common credential for EKG technicians is the Certified EKG Technician (CET) offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). To earn the CET credential, you must successfully complete a computer-based exam that consists of 70 questions. The exam covers topics such as electrocardiography, anatomy and physiology of the heart, and medical ethics.
Step Three: Experience
The third step to becoming an EKG Technician is to get some experience. You can do this by working as a volunteer in a hospital or a medical office, or by working as an EKG Technician in a training program. Many hospitals offer training programs for new EKG Technicians, and you can also find programs at community colleges and technical schools. Once you have some experience, you will be able to take the certification exam and become certified.
The Role of an EKG Technician
An electrocardiogram (EKG) technician is a medical professional who uses specialized equipment to record electrical activity within the heart. EKG technicians, also known as cardiac monitor technicians, telemetry technicians or cardiac telemetry technicians, typically work in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. They may also work in mobile units, such as those operated by the American Red Cross, that travel to disaster-stricken areas.
EKG technicians use machines that measure the electrical impulses generated by the heart muscle and record them on graph paper or a computer monitor. They then relay this information to a physician, who uses it to diagnose cardiac problems. In some cases, EKG technicians may also be responsible for administering stress tests, which are used to evaluate how well the heart functions during periods of strenuous activity.
Becoming an EKG technician typically requires completing a certificate or diploma program from a community college or vocational school. Some employers may require certification from a professional organization, such as the National Healthcare Association or the American Society ofRegistered EKG Technicians.
What an EKG Technician Does on a Daily Basis
An EKG technician is a medical professional who specializes in performing electrocardiograms, which are tests that measure the electrical activity of the heart. EKG technicians work in hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices, and they usually work full time. In this article, we will discuss what an EKG technician does on a daily basis.
Preparing for an EKG
An EKG technician is a health professional who administers and reads electrocardiograms (EKGs). An EKG is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. Electrical impulses are transmitted from the heart to the EKG machine, which produces a graphical representation of those impulses on paper. The EKG strips produced can be read by a physician, who then uses them to diagnose heart conditions.
EKG technicians typically work in hospitals, but may also work in outpatient clinics or doctor’s offices. They usually work full time, but some may work part time or on an as-needed basis. The hours may be regular, but they may also include evenings or weekends.
Performing an EKG
An EKG machine will have electrodes that are placed on the patient’s chest. The electrodes are sticky pads that have wires that attach to the machine. The EKG technician will place the electrodes on the patient’s bare chest, making sure that they are in the correct position. Once the electrodes are placed on the patient, they will be asked to remain still and not talk during the test. The test itself only takes a few minutes.
Interpreting an EKG
An electrocardiogram, or “EKG” for short, is a quick and painless test that measures the electrical activity of your heart to detect any abnormalities. EKG technicians are specially trained to operate the machines that perform this test, as well as to read and interpret the results.
An EKG machine will have at least six leads, or sensors, that are placed on different areas of your chest and limbs. These leads pick up the electrical impulses created by your heartbeats and translate them into waveforms on a monitor or piece of paper. The technician will then look at these waveforms to check for any abnormalities.
Some common abnormalities that an EKG can detect include:
-A heart attack
-A heart condition called cardiomyopathy
-Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
-Tissue damage from a previous heart attack (myocardial infarction)
The Future of EKG Technology
EKG technology is always evolving and improving. As we become more reliant on technology in our everyday lives, it is likely that EKG machines will become smaller, more portable, and more user-friendly. Additionally, with the advent of wearable fitness trackers and other wearable technology, it is likely that EKG machines will be incorporated into these devices in order to provide users with real-time data about their heart health.
Conclusion
EKG technicians are in high demand and are an important part of the healthcare team. They play a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions. Becoming an EKG technician is a great way to start a career in the medical field, and it can be done in as little as six months. There are many educational programs available to help you get started, and most hospitals offer on-the-job training. With hard work and dedication, you can be on your way to a rewarding career as an EKG technician.
