EKG Technician Job Description: Roles and Responsibilities
Oct 06, 2023
Table of Contents
- What is an EKG technician?
- What does an EKG technician do?
- Duties and responsibilities of an EKG technician
- How to become an EKG technician
- Benefits of becoming an EKG technician
- EKG technicians' average salary
What is an EKG technician?
An EKG technician, also known as an electrocardiogram technician, is a healthcare professional who specializes in performing and interpreting electrocardiograms (EKGs). An EKG is a medical test that records the electrical activity of the heart, providing valuable information about a patient's heart rate, rhythm, and any potential abnormalities.
EKG technicians are responsible for preparing patients for the procedure, attaching electrodes to the patient's chest, limbs, and sometimes the abdomen, and operating the EKG machine to obtain accurate readings.
What does an EKG technician do?
They work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals to ensure accurate readings and provide vital information about a patient's heart health like medical assistants do. EKG technicians are trained to place electrodes on specific areas of a patient's body, such as the chest, arms, and legs, to capture the electrical signals produced by the heart.
Duties and responsibilities of an EKG technician
How to become an EKG technician
Educational requirements
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required to enter a training program for EKG technicians. These training programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, or hospitals. The duration of the program can vary, but it usually takes around 4-6 months to complete.
Training and certification programs
These programs provide the necessary knowledge and skills to perform electrocardiogram (EKG) tests, which measure the electrical activity of the heart. Training programs can vary in length but typically range from a few weeks to several months during the program, students learn about the anatomy and physiology of the heart, how to operate EKG equipment, and how to interpret and record EKG results.
Benefits of becoming an EKG technician
Firstly, it offers a stable and rewarding career path. As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise, there is a constant need for skilled EKG technicians in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers. This ensures job security and opportunities for growth and advancement in the field.
EKG technicians' average salary
The average salary of EKG technicians can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and education. On average, EKG technicians earn a median annual salary of around $54,000. However, this can range from around $30,000 to over $70,000, depending on various factors.
EKG technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, assisting hospital staff in the diagnosis and monitoring of heart conditions.
