How To Become an EKG Technician
How To Become an EKG Technician
In the past, becoming an EKG Technician could be done by simply being cross trained at a hospital by someone who was a seasoned EKG tech. While this is still a possibility, those who are not currently in a related healthcare role will find that the best way to get a job is to complete formal training. Below are some basic steps to follow in order to become an EKG Tech:
- Meet prerequisites by completing a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. During high school, it is helpful to take courses in biology, physics, and and anatomy.
- Research EKG training programs including certificates and associates degrees and find a school that meets your career goals. Be sure to check out local job listings, paying particular attention to whether Electrocardiograph (EKG) Technician examination and certification is a requirement of employment.
- If you determine that certification is necessary or if you want to have stronger credentials, sign up to take the exam, which is administered through the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians. There is a test specifically for EKG Techs.
- Begin applying for positions at local hospitals and outpatient centers. If you have any previous experience in health care, you will want to highlight this on your resume.
EKG Technician Certification
While certification is not mandatory, many employers now prefer that their staff has met national standards for EKG. The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT) offers an EKG examination that leads to official certification. In order to qualify for the exam, you must be a member of ASPT. Membership is available to anyone who works in healthcare involving patient care. To take the examination, you must have graduated from an EKG formal education program and have 6 months of experience. Currently, the examination fee is $55. You will get your exam results 6 to 8 weeks after completion.
Another certifying body is the Cardiac Credentialing International organization, which offers a Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) certification. The test covers the fundamentals of EKG, holter monitoring, and treadmill testing. Currently, the exam fee is $160. You can obtain pamphlets that explain the test and will give you an idea of what to expect.
The CCT exam consists of the following areas of knowledge:
- Basic Cardiovascular Anatomy & Physiology 14%
- ECG Techniques & Recognition 33%
- Electrophysiology 16%
- Stress Test Techniques 9%
- Holter Monitoring 20%
- Cardiac Medications 8%
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