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Electrocardiograph technicians, commonly called
EKG technicians, operate noninvasive equipment which prints graphic
tracings of electrical impulses transmitted by the heart.
The graphic tracing
is interpreted by the physician to aid in the diagnosis of heart disease,
monitor the effect of drug therapy, and analyze changes in the condition
of the patient's heart over a period of time. Computerized electrocardiograph
equipment has the capability of analyzing the graphic tracing. The
EKG technician is responsible for maintaining the equipment and supplies,
preparing the patient for the test and monitoring the patient during
the procedure. Additional duties may include scheduling of appointments,
data entry into computerized machines, typing of physicians' interpretations,
and maintaining patient files.
Electrocardiographic
Technician
Areas of Specialization
In addition to performing routine diagnostic electrocardiograms,
EKG technicians may specialize in continuous ambulatory (Holter)
monitoring or cardiac stress testing. Holter monitoring records
a patient's cardiac rhythm for a 24 to 48 hour period, while patients
pursue their normal routines. Cardiac stress testing monitors and
records a patient's cardiac rhythm during a period of prescribed
exercise.
Work Environment
EKG technicians work in hospital cardiology departments, physicians'
offices, cardiac rehabilitation centers, health maintenance organizations,
or clinics. In the hospital setting most EKGs are performed at the
patient's bedside, thus EKG technicians will spend a significant
amount of time walking and standing. Employees serving as monitor
techs may be subjected to long hours of sitting in confined quarters.
Job Outlook
The number of job openings for EKG technicians has declined. Redesign
within the healthcare system has resulted in cross-training so that
other health care workers have assumed these responsibilities, and
EKG technicians have been assigned additional or other responsibilities.
Job openings in Florida will vary, but will favor EKG technicians
with the advanced training to perform Holter monitoring and stress
testing.
Length of Training/Requirements
Health care workers desiring to be cross-trained to perform EKGs
can obtain the necessary education at technical centers or private
career schools. Cross training classes are approximately 75 hours
in length and prepare the individual to function at the aide level.
Programs which prepare individuals as EKG technicians are found
at technical centers, community colleges, and private career schools.
The usual length of these programs is 465 hours (four months). Program
content includes classroom instruction in anatomy and physiology
with an emphasis on the cardiac and vascular system, medical terminology,
cardiovascular medications, patient care techniques, interpretation
of cardiac rhythm, medical ethics, and a clinical practicum.
Updated: 2007 |
