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EKG-ECG Technologist |
Career OverviewThe EKG or ECG is becoming an increasingly common diagnostic test, using on adults and children alike, to assess health and test for a variety of different abnormal conditions. An EKG-ECG technician is primarily responsible for conducting the test, preparing the patient, monitoring them during the procedure, and conducting a degree of after care.
The EKG-ECG equipment monitors the electrical activities of the heart, specifically noting any changes that occur, indicating conditions such as stress to the heart muscles. Cardiologists review the results of the EKG-ECG and use them to diagnose irregularities in heart function.
The EKG-ECG technician prepares the patient for the exam by attaching electrodes to the chest, arms, and legs.
They are employed in the EKG departments of large hospitals, or they may work in small hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices, cardiac rehabilitation centers, and health maintenance organizations.
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Career RequirementsEKG-ECG technicians usually receive their training on-the-job. The minimum educational requirement for is a high school diploma or an equivalent GED. Ability in biology, chemistry, and mathematics are also considered requirements.
Most training lasts from three to six months although some community colleges and vocational institutions are now offering more specialized training for EKG-ECG technicians lasting up to two years.
More information about training programs for EKG-ECG technicians are available:
Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)
4456 Corporation Lane, Ste. 120
Virginia Beach, VA 23462-3151
800/326-0268 or 804/497-3380
Society of Vascular Technology
4601 President's Dr., Ste. 260
Lanham, MD 20706
301/459-7550
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Job OutlookEmployment of EKG-ECG technicians is expected to decline as hospitals train registered nurses and others to perform basic EKG procedures. Individuals who seek to specialize in other areas, such as stress testing and Holter monitoring, have more favorable job prospects than those who can perform only basic EKG tests.
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Career TrackThe job prospects for EKG-ECG technicians are not particularly good, however, experience and training as an EKG-ECG technician may still be considered valuable as a means of graduating to a more advanced and specialist area of medicine. Those who have training and experience as EKG-ECG technicians may find ready employment as medical technicians with additional training.
Promotion for an EKG-ECG technician, where possible, is generally to a supervisory position.
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CompensationSalary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $16,000 to $22,000.
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