Become an EKG Technician in as Little as Six Months

EKG technicians play a vital role in providing quality healthcare for vulnerable patients. By administrating and interpreting EKG tests they ensure that patients receive the proper care they need for heart problems. Below you can learn how you can become an EKG technician in as little as six months.

Day-to-Day Duties of an EKG Technician
EKG technicians have a varied work day. Their primary duty is to perform diagnostic electrocardiograms. This involves positioning and applying electrodes to the correct position on the body. EKG technicians are also required to interact with patients which involves reviewing their records and instructing the patient prior to the procedure beginning. During the procedure the EKG technician must monitor the patient and be alert to any findings that are abnormal. The EKG technician will ensure that the electrocardiogram has been administered correctly and then deliver the results to the physician for analysis.

Training to Become an EKG Technician
Becoming an EKG technician begins with obtaining a high school diploma. At high school it is best to focus on subjects that will provide a good grounding for your EKG technician studies. This includes mathematics, biology, English and computer skills. Taking emergency medical training or first aid courses can also provide useful background knowledge.

People skills are also important as an EKG technician. Being an EKG technician goes beyond being able to implement and interpret and EKG test. You must be able to deal with patients in a calm and personable manner while instilling trust.

Before deciding to undertake a career as an EKG technician you want to be sure that this is the right choice for you. If possible visit your local hospital and ask if an EKG technician would be willing to discuss their job with you. An EKG technician will be able to talk you through their day to day responsibilities and explain the benefits and disadvantages of their profession.

Six-Month EKG Technician Diploma Programs
An EKG technician diploma will allow you to qualify as an EKG technician in as little as six months. This certificate is sufficient for you to start your career as an EKG technician.

Some EKG technician certification programs will require you to attend class in person for your entire studies. Others offer a hybrid program which allow you to pursue part of your studies online and some in person. This provides a flexible study approach which suits people who may have work or home life commitments which make full time in person study difficult.
Given the short time frame to earn your EKG technician certificate you should expect a relatively heavy work load. The EKG technician certification is primarily composed of two different parts. These are class study and a practical work.

Course work for your EKG technician certificate will include course on how to perform and interpret an EKG, how to read Electronic Health Records (EHR) and cardiovascular anatomy study.

The practical component of the course will be where you put the material that you have already learned to practice. Here you will work with medical staff in a clinical setting helping real patients. This will give you the practical skills of an EKG technician that you will require in order to do your job.

With an aging population and increasingly sophisticated medical technology the demand for EKG technicians will only increase in the future. Thanks to the introduction of the six month EKG technician certificate joining this interesting and fulfilling career is a faster process than ever before. If you are looking for a varied, exciting job where you can make a real difference to people’s lives, then a career as an EKG technician may be right for you.