Job Duties
Electrocardiograph (EKG) technicians perform EKGs on patients under the supervision of a physician. EKGs trace electrical impulses transmitted by the heart and is performed by placing electrodes on a patient's chest, arms, and legs, and then operating an EKG machine which produces a reading. EKG technicians then create a printout which is given to a physician for analysis. The EKG test is normally completed before most types of surgery and sometimes as part of a routine physical examination, particularly with people who have a history of cardiovascular problems or who are middle-aged.
Some EKG technicians have advanced training and are able to perform Holter monitor and stress testing. Holter monitoring involves attaching electrodes to a patient's chest and attaching a portable EKG monitor to the patient's belt. 24 hours later, the tape form the monitor is removed and placed in a scanner. The technician then checks the quality of the tape and prints out the information for a physician. The physician uses these results to determine heart rhythm abnormalities, pacemaker problems, and other heart problems. EKG technicians also administer a treadmill test in which a patient is connected to an EKG monitor and the results are recorded as they walk on the treadmill.
Job Skills
EKG technicians should have an aptitude for mechanical work. They need to be able to follow detailed instructions and be reliable. The must have the ability to ease patients' minds with their relaxed and calm personality.
Income
In 2002, EKG technicians, including cardiovascular technologists, earned a median annual salary of $36,430. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $20,920, to the highest 10%, who earned more than $56,080.
Training and Education
EKG technicians, including those who perform Holter monitoring and stress testing, can receive training from 1-year certification programs. There are 29 programs in the U.S. that are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Cardiovascular Technology. However, most EKG technicians receive between 8 and 16 weeks of on-the-job training in place of formal certification programs. Most employers prefer individuals who have already worked in the healthcare field, such as nursing aides. Some students working to become cardiovascular technologists work as EKG technicians during their studies. This can be a very effective way to gain experience and network with future employers.
Employment
In 2002, EKG technicians, including cardiovascular technologists, held about 43,000 jobs. 75% worked in hospitals, usually in cardiology departments. The rest worked in offices of physicians, including cardiologists; or in medical and diagnostic laboratories, including diagnostic imaging centers.
Job Outlook
Between 2002 and 2012, employment of EKG technicians is expected to increase faster than the average. The aging population will have higher incidences of cardiovascular problems, creating more demand for the services of EKG technicians. However, growth will be tempered by the fact that hospitals will train nursing aides and other s to perform basic EKG procedures. Job prospects will be better for individuals trained in Holter monitoring and stress testing.
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