What Does an EKG Technician Do?

What Does an EKG Technician Do?

Train for a Rewarding Healthcare Career with IBT

     Whether you are just now considering entering the medical field, or already working in some capacity in the healthcare industry, you may be interested to find out more about becoming an EKG Technician. EKG Technicians are specially trained medical professionals who specialize in electrocardiogram (EKG) testing for patients. EKG machines are complex devices, and EKG Technicians undergo thorough training before testing for and obtaining certification. Read on to find out more about this rewarding career, and how the Institute of Business and Technology (IBT) can help you enter this growing field!

      Working in healthcare facilities alongside doctors, EKG technicians specialize in electrocardiogram (EKG) testing for patients. EKG machines are complex devices that monitor the heart's performance through wires and electrodes attached to a patient's chest, arms and legs. Trained specifically to operate these sophisticated devices,  EKG technicians monitor the readings, make sure the machine is attached properly and in working order, and record the results of the EKG tests. While the main job of an EKG tech is to conduct electrocardiogram (EKG) testing, other tasks include:

  • Taking a patient's medical history
  • Preparing patients for various cardiovascular tests
  • Checking the quality of recorded data
  • Reporting findings to the attending physician, who then makes decisions based on the results
  • Maintaining equipment in good working order
  • Helping technologists and physicians during procedures

      EKG technicians are an important member of a medical team. Like other careers in healthcare, EKG technicians should be individuals who have deep compassion and the desire to help others. It is also important to be organized and attentive. Some qualities that are valuable in this profession include:

  • Attention to detail - The ability to focus and follow precise directions is critical to this job
  • Technical skills - EKG techs must be able to understand and use complex machinery
  • Interpersonal skills - Good communication skills and a friendly demeanor are important, as EKG technicians work directly with patients, usually at a vulnerable time when they might be scared or in pain. 
  • Stamina - EKG technicians often must be on their feet for many hours and may be required to lift heavy objects.

      Skilled EKG technicians may work exclusively as cardiovascular technologists or perform EKG readings as part of their duties as a PRN, medical assistant, or other member of the care team. These professionals work under the direction of a physician in hospitals, physicians' offices, and diagnostic labs. Job titles for those with EKG/ECG technician skills might include EKG Technician, Monitor Technician, Telemetry Technician, or Biomedical Equipment Technician.

     The first step to joining this growing field is to attend an accredited training program. IBT offers a Lab assistant/EKG technician/Phlebotomist program that can be completed in as few as 9 months. All courses at IBT are taught by experienced faculty with extensive experience in the field, and emphasize hands-on, practical learning. IBT students learn to perform important medical procedures, including laboratory procedures for hematology, bacteriology, urinalysis, electrocardiography, and phlebotomy. Students also develop their interpersonal skills, including the communication skills required to work with patients as well as others in the workplace. Upon completion of the program, students are CPR certified and are prepared to obtain the California Phlebotomy Technician (CPT1) certification from the State of California.

      If a career as an EKG technician sounds interesting to you, then call IBT at 800-915-3562 today! Our friendly and helpful admissions representatives are always available to answer your questions, tell you about our programs, and walk you through the admissions process. Don’t wait any longer, make your goals happen with IBT!