Most medical facility patients don’t encounter electrocardiograph (EKG) technicians. Still, for those patients who do, the EKG Technician plays a crucial role in their healthcare team. EKG Technicians are important members of the healthcare team who perform necessary tests to diagnose possible heart conditions.
Want to know more about a career as an EKG technician? Boardman Training Center is here to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this electrifying career path!
What Is An EKG Technician?
Electrocardiograph Technicians, or EKG Techs, are specialized healthcare technicians who focus on performing tests to measure the electrical activity of a patient’s heart. These professionals directly support physicians and cardiologists by carrying out EKG tests effectively and accurately.
EKG Techs have a variety of responsibilities, including preparing patients for testing, correctly attaching electrodes to the patient, recognizing abnormal heart rhythms, maintaining proper use of equipment, and more.
Why A Career As An EKG Technician?
EKG Technicians play an important role in a patient’s healthcare experience, especially if they are in the process of a heart-related diagnosis. This process can be nerve-wracking for patients of all ages. EKG Technicians can ease their worries with compassion and professionalism. The skills an EKG Technician possesses allow them to make a difference in a patient’s life by providing tests that can lead to early detection of certain heart conditions.
How To Get An EKG Technician Certification?
The process of becoming a Certified EKG Technician is as simple as choosing a training program that provides you with the necessary skills, completing the program, then sitting for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified EKG Technician (CET) certification* exam. At Boardman Training Center, students will receive hands-on training to develop the skills they need in the field. Additionally, the EKG Technician program curriculum at BTC incorporates preparation for the NHA CET exam, so students will feel prepared to sit for the certification exam at the end of the program.
Although NHA certification is not required for those looking to enter a career as an EKG Technician, obtaining the CET certification* proves to employers that an independent accrediting agency has evaluated you and determined you can confidently perform the required tasks in a real-world setting.
Where Can I Work As An EKG Technician?
Because EKG Technicians are more specialized technicians, they can often find positions in cardiac-related areas of a medical facility, including cardiac care units in hospitals, emergency rooms, outpatient clinics, and diagnostic imaging centers. EKG Technicians can also work in research centers to assist cardiologists with conducting clinical trials and other medical research.
How Long Is EKG Technician Training?
Students enrolled in Boardman Training Center’s EKG Technician program will complete their training program and be prepared to sit for their certification in only 12 weeks. According to the Nurse Journal, the average length of an EKG Technician training program is between 3 to 6 months. Because BTC’s training program is accelerated, students can expect to learn both in the classroom and during lab experiences and enter their careers in less time.
Why Choose Boardman Training Center’s EKG Technician Program?
Deciding to become an EKG Technician can allow you to help patients directly. This is a rewarding career that matters. An added benefit of choosing this exciting field is the projected job growth; the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the number of cardiovascular technologists and technicians to grow 10% from 2021-2031.
Boardman Training Center, EKG Tech students benefit from small class sizes and one-on-one instruction to help them learn, evening classes to help balance family and work schedules, and flexible financing options to help make education affordable.
Get Started On The Path To An EKG Technician Career!
Boardman Training Center is here to help you get on the path to a career as an Electrocardiograph Technician! So take the first step and contact our admissions team by calling 330-729-9244 or Requesting Information today!
*Certification is contingent upon passing the corresponding industry certification exam.