EKG Technician Training
EKG technicians, also known as cardiographic technicians, specialize in performing electrocardiographs, or EKG's for short. EKG's measure electrical impulses that are emitted by the heart via skin electrodes. It is a form of heart stress testing using holter monitors in which electrodes are attached to the body in specific areas in order to capture the hearts impulses. EKG Technician Training involves learning about heart rhythms and how to properly utilize the equipment to get accurate measurements, which are handed over to physicians for diagnosis.
The Core Training for EKG Technicians
Virtually all EKG training consists of foundational knowledge in cardiovascular anatomy and physiology combined with a thorough understanding of the techniques and instrumentation involved in basic EKG monitoring, stress testing, and holter monitoring. Below is a general explanation of what you can expect to learn during your EKG training.
Basic Cardiovascular Anatomy & Physiology
You will learn all about the heart including size, location, layers, chambers, valve function, blood flow, arteries, veins, capillaries, arterioles, and pressure systems. You will learn about the relationship between heart output rates and strokes as well as the entire cardiac cycle.
EKG Techniques
All EKG programs will teach you about measuring and analyzing waveforms and EKG measurements as well as calibration methods and the difference between single and three channel EKG. You will learn how to troubleshoot problems that arise during the process as well. You will understand the principles of lead placement, tremors, electrical interferences, electrical shock risks and pacemakers.
Stress Testing Techniques and Protocols
EKG programs will teach you all about stress testing including EKG leads and placement as well as and stress testing instrumentation. You will learn how to recognize recording errors commonly encountered and patient electrical safety hazards. You will also learn how to interpret cardiac arrhythmias. Arrhythmias simply means any abnormal electrical activity in the heart. For example, the heart may be pumping too slow or fast, or it may be irregular.
What is a holter monitor for EKG?
A holter monitor, usually simply referred to as a "holter" is a device that monitors electrical currents for 24 to 48 hours. Holters are most commonly used in EKG procedures, but can also be used for monitoring brain activity. The holter records electrical signals from the heart through the electrodes, which are attached to the chest and sometimes other areas of the body. It is then stored on a digital disk so the physician can review the findings.
What Does an EKG Measure?
EKG's are an invaluable tool for measuring and diagnosing abnormal heart rhythms and can detect problems associated with damage done to tissues that create electrical signals. Abnormal heart rhythms, electrolyte irregularities and more. It can determine if the heart is pumping properly or has been damaged by previous heart attacks. EKG's are routinely done before and after surgical procedures involving the heart as well to ensure all is working normal.
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