ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHIC TECHNICIAN
The electrocardiogram (EKG
or ECG) is a frequently used diagnostic test that records heart activity,
monitoring variations in the electrical potential produced by the heart.
Electrical changes that occur during a heartbeat are recorded as tracings
on an electrocardiogram which is reported to physicians and nursing staff
and used to diagnose irregularities in heart function. The electrocardiographic
technician prepares the patient for the exam by attaching electrodes to
the chest, arms, and legs and monitors the equipment as the test is run.
They record test results, identify emergencies or abnormalities, and operate
ultrasound equipment. Some EKG technicians fit patients with portable heart
monitors. EKG technicians clean and maintain equipment, battery packs and
wiring systems.
Education
Many electrocardiographic technicians
receive supervised on-the-job training in a hospital or clinic which usually
lasts from three to six months. Some community colleges and technical schools
offer training that lasts from one to two years.
Registration/Certification/Licensure
Electrocardiograph technicians
are not licensed in Kentucky. Voluntary national certification to become
a Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) is available through Cardiovascular
Credentialing International.
Salary
$15,000-30,000
Employment Opportunities
EKG technicians can be employed
in the EKG department of a large hospital. They may also work in small
hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices, cardiac rehabilitation centers,
and health maintenance organizations (HMOs). Many hospitals are cross-training
registered nurses and other health care workers to perform basic EKG procedures.
Job prospects are better for EKG technicians who specialize in stress testing,
ambulatory monitoring, etc. Some technicians branch into equipment sales
and marketing.
Programs
Please contact your local hospital
or clinic regarding programs that may be available.
Professional Association
Cardiovascular
Credentialing International
4456 Corporation Lane, Ste.
120
Virginia Beach, VA 23462-3151
(800) 326-0268
Last updated: June 21, 2001