In this EKG Technician job description, you’ll see these careers are an incredibly important part of modern healthcare. By performing Electrocardiogram tests, they help doctors determine and treat heart conditions with accuracy. Their contributions to the medical industry cannot be overstated!
If you are interested in a career in the healthcare industry but don’t want to be a doctor or a nurse, becoming an EKG technician might be the perfect choice for you.
In this article, we’ll dive into the exciting world of EKG Technicians! We’ll cover the education needed to become one, the job opportunities available, and what kind of salaries you can expect. Plus, we’ll explore how you can use this role to further your career.
Our aim is to provide you with comprehensive information that will help you make an informed decision about whether becoming an EKG Technician is the right career path for you.
What Does an EKG Tech Do?
EKG Technicians are responsible for administering EKG tests on patients. An EKG test is a non-invasive procedure that involves attaching electrodes to the chest, arms, and legs of a patient. These electrodes then record the electrical activity of the heart and produce an EKG reading that is used to detect any abnormalities in the heart’s rhythm and rate.
EKG Technician Education Requirements
To become an EKG Technician, you typically need a high school diploma or GED. However, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed a post-secondary EKG Technician training program.
You can take up one of these short-term training programs at your local community college, vocational school, or technical institute. The duration is usually between four and six months, and it offers valuable classroom knowledge along with clinical experience.
During the training program, students learn how to perform EKG tests, read and interpret EKG readings, and use EKG equipment. They also learn about medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.
In addition to formal training, EKG Technicians must be certified. Certification is available through organizations such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT).
What Is an EKG Technician Salary?
The demand for EKG Technicians is expected to grow in the coming years due to an aging population and an increase in the number of people with heart disease.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including EKG Technicians, is projected to grow 5 percent from 2023 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
As of 2021, the median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including EKG Technicians, was $58,730. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $30,860, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $93,110.
EKG Technician Skills Necessary
Becoming an EKG Technician requires a specific set of skills. These include:
- Attention to Detail: EKG Technicians need to be alert and thorough while reading the outcomes of the test, making sure that they’re precise and exact.
- Communication Skills: EKG Technicians must be able to communicate effectively with patients to explain the testing process and answer any questions they may have.
- Technical Skills: EKG Technicians must be proficient in the use of EKG equipment and software.
- Physical Stamina: If you’re an EKG Technician, it’s important to be able to stand for extended periods and lift patients as needed.
- Analytical Skills: EKG Technicians must have strong analytical skills to interpret EKG readings accurately.
How to Find EKG Tech Jobs
There are many job opportunities available for EKG Technicians. These can be found in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic laboratories.
Finding EKG Technician jobs is easier than ever—simply head over to online job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or Monster. You can also find out local healthcare providers and hospitals in your vicinity who might have openings in this role.
EKG Technician Certification Program
To become an EKG Technician, one has to complete a postsecondary program. These programs vary in duration, from 6 months to 2 years. So make sure you do your research and find the one that best suits your goals!
Most colleges and technical schools offer EKG Technician programs that cover topics such as:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Medical Terminology
- EKG Interpretation
- EKG Equipment and Technology
- Patient Care and Safety
- Professional Communication
During your program, you will also complete a clinical externship. This will provide you with hands-on experience working in a hospital or other healthcare facility. After completing your program, you will be eligible to take a certification exam to become a certified EKG Technician.
Becoming an EKG Technician is an immensely satisfying career path for those interested in healthcare. To be successful, you need to hone certain traits such as attention to detail, communication abilities, technical prowess, physical strength, and analytical skills.
You will also need to complete a postsecondary education program that includes a clinical externship and certification exam.
If you are interested in becoming an EKG Technician, research college programs in your area to find one that meets your needs and career goals.
Steps To Becoming an EKG Technician
If you are interested in a career in healthcare that focuses on heart health, becoming an EKG Technician may be a great fit for you. EKG Technicians are specialized healthcare professionals who administer diagnostic tests to assess heart health.
Here are the steps you can take to become an EKG Technician:
Step 1: Complete High School or Obtain a GED
A high school diploma or GED is required for most EKG Technician programs. If you haven’t completed high school, you can enroll in a GED program to earn your diploma.
Step 2: Pursue Education and Training
After high school, you should consider pursuing an education and training program in EKG Technology. Many community colleges, vocational schools, and technical institutes offer highly specialized programs that can vary from several months to two years! It’s a great choice for those who want to be at the forefront of such a rapidly growing field.
During the program, you will learn the basics of cardiovascular anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and how to operate EKG equipment. You will also complete clinical training to gain hands-on experience with patients.
Step 3: Obtain Certification
Although EKG Technician certification is not a must, it can be immensely beneficial in terms of improving job prospects and income. The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT) both provide certification for EKG Technicians. Having this credential will open up more doors for you!
To become certified, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of cardiovascular anatomy, physiology, and EKG interpretation.
Step 4: Gain Work Experience
If you’re a certified EKG Technician, then the next logical step is to gain hands-on experience in the field. There are plenty of job openings available in hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. Make sure to keep an eye out for them!
Step 5: Advance Your Career
As you gain experience and become more skilled in EKG Technology, you may have the opportunity to advance your career. You can pursue additional certifications, such as Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) or Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT), which can lead to higher pay and more job opportunities.