The familiar sound of a heart monitor, a staple in medical films, helps build tension and set the stage. Healthcare personnel, however, depend on it and an EKG to evaluate the heart. Highly trained EKG technicians administer this technology:
What Is an EKG Technician?
An EKG (electrocardiogram) technician is a healthcare professional who specializes in the operation of electrocardiogram machines and the interpretation of the results. An EKG technician is trained to measure, record, and interpret the electrical activity of the heart, which is used to diagnose heart conditions.
Duties of an EKG Technician
The duties of an EKG technician include, but are not limited to, performing EKG tests, interpreting EKG results, calibrating and maintaining EKG equipment, and providing patient education.
One of the primary duties of an EKG technician is to perform EKG tests. This involves setting up the equipment, attaching electrodes to the patient’s chest, and monitoring their heart activity. The technician must be able to recognize abnormal readings and must be able to interpret the results in order to provide an accurate diagnosis.
Another important duty is to perform periodic maintenance and calibration on the EKG equipment. This is a critical step in ensuring that the equipment is functioning properly and that the readings are accurate. The technician must also be knowledgeable about the different types of EKG machines and their functions.
In addition, the EKG technician must be able to provide patient education. This includes educating patients on the importance of EKG testing, how to prepare for their tests, and how to interpret their results. The technician must also be able to explain the risks and benefits of the procedure to the patient.
Skills Needed to Be an EKG Technician
One of the most important skills an EKG technician must possess is the ability to effectively communicate with patients. The technician must be able to explain the EKG procedure to the patient in a clear and concise manner. It is also important to be able to answer any questions the patient may have regarding the procedure.
In addition to communication skills, an EKG technician must also possess excellent technical skills. This includes the ability to properly set up and operate the EKG machine as well as the ability to accurately interpret the results of the test. The technician must be able to understand the various components of the machine and be able to troubleshoot any problems that may arise.
Organizational skills are also essential for an EKG technician. This includes the ability to keep accurate records of all EKG tests performed and any changes made to the machine’s settings. It is also important to be able to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively while completing multiple tests in a day.
Training Required to Be an EKG Technician
EKG technicians receive their training through either a two-year college program or a one-year certificate program. The two-year college program that includes EKG tech classes typically requires the completion of a medical-related associate’s degree or its equivalent. The one-year certificate program is designed for those who already have a medical background, such as medical assistants or licensed practical nurses.
Job Outlook for EKG Technicians
EKG Technicians are in high demand in hospitals, cardiac care units, doctor’s offices, and other medical facilities. They are responsible for performing electrocardiograph (EKG) tests, which are used to assess a patient’s heart health. They are also skilled in the operation of EKG machines and must be able to recognize abnormal heart rhythms and diagnose cardiac abnormalities.
The job outlook for EKG Technicians is also promising due to the increasing number of cardiac diseases in the population, as well as the shift towards preventive care. As more people seek preventive care, they will need to have an EKG test to make sure there are no underlying health issues.
Conclusion
Becoming an EKG technician can be a rewarding and exciting career choice, but it is important to consider several factors before making your decision. An EKG technician must have excellent nursing skills, an understanding of basic cardiac physiology, and the ability to handle stress. Moreover, one needs to get the necessary medical career training to be an EKG technician. It is also important to research the job market and salary opportunities for EKG technicians to get a better understanding of the job.
Medical Career Academy is a place that provides an excellent education in the field of healthcare, including EKG tech classes. We provide a real-life, hands-on experience combined with an online learning experience that experienced instructors teach. This gives our students the knowledge and confidence to work in the medical field.