Key Points:

• ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) providers focus on managing cardiac emergencies; EKG (Electrocardiogram) technicians perform heart monitoring and interpretation.
• ACLS providers typically earn higher salaries than EKG technicians.
• Both ACLS and EKG jobs are in demand.
• ACLS training is usually in-person and more intensive, while EKG training can be obtained through online or in-person programs.
• ACLS training is generally more expensive and takes longer to complete compared to EKG training.

When it comes to the field of healthcare, there are numerous career paths to choose from. Two popular options are ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) and EKG (Electrocardiogram) technicians. Both of these professions play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating heart conditions, but they have distinct differences in terms of job responsibilities, education and training requirements, and career outlook. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between ACLS and EKG technicians to help you determine which path might be the best fit for you.

What is ACLS and EKG?

ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) Technician:

• ACLS technicians are healthcare professionals who specialize in providing emergency care to patients experiencing cardiac arrest or other life-threatening cardiac events.
• They are trained to assess the patient's condition, administer medications, perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), and use advanced medical equipment to stabilize the patient.
• ACLS technicians work as part of a team in hospitals, emergency rooms, and other healthcare settings to provide immediate care to patients in critical condition.

EKG (Electrocardiogram) Technician:

• EKG technicians are responsible for operating and maintaining EKG machines, which are used to measure the electrical activity of the heart.
• They attach electrodes to the patient's chest, arms, and legs to record the electrical impulses of the heart and produce an EKG graph.
• EKG technicians work closely with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure accurate readings and assist in diagnosing various heart conditions.
• They typically work in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic imaging centers.

Difference between ACLS and EKG

While both ACLS and EKG technicians work with heart-related issues, there are several key differences between the two professions:

Scope of Practice:

• ACLS technicians are trained to provide emergency care and interventions to patients experiencing cardiac arrest or other life-threatening cardiac events. They are responsible for stabilizing the patient's condition and initiating treatment until further medical intervention is available.
• EKG technicians, on the other hand, focus on performing electrocardiograms and assisting in the diagnosis of heart conditions. They do not have the same level of responsibility as ACLS technicians when it comes to emergency interventions.

Job Setting:

• ACLS technicians primarily work in hospitals, emergency rooms, and other acute care settings where immediate medical interventions are required.
• EKG technicians, on the other hand, can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, and private practices.

Job Responsibilities:

• ACLS technicians are responsible for assessing the patient's condition, administering medications, performing CPR, and using advanced medical equipment to stabilize the patient. They work closely with other healthcare professionals in a high-stress, fast-paced environment.
• EKG technicians focus on operating and maintaining EKG machines, attaching electrodes to the patient, and ensuring accurate readings. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare providers to assist in diagnosing heart conditions.

ACLS vs EKG: Job Description

ACLS Technician:

• Assessing the patient's condition and providing immediate care in emergency situations
• Administering medications and performing advanced cardiac life support interventions
• Using defibrillators and other medical equipment to stabilize the patient's condition
• Documenting patient information and communicating with other healthcare professionals
• Collaborating with a team of healthcare providers to ensure the best possible patient outcomes

EKG Technician:

• Operating and maintaining EKG machines
• Attaching electrodes to the patient's chest, arms, and legs to record the electrical activity of the heart
• Monitoring and interpreting EKG tracings
• Assisting physicians and other healthcare providers in diagnosing heart conditions
• Ensuring the accuracy and quality of EKG readings

ACLS vs EKG: Education and Training

ACLS Technician:

• To become an ACLS technician, individuals must typically complete a postsecondary certificate program in Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
• These programs typically cover topics such as cardiac anatomy and physiology, emergency care procedures, medication administration, and the use of medical equipment.
• ACLS technicians may also need to obtain additional certifications, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), depending on the requirements of their specific job setting.

EKG Technician:

• The educational requirements for EKG technicians vary depending on the employer and state regulations.
• Some employers may require a postsecondary certificate program in EKG technology, while others may accept on-the-job training or a high school diploma with relevant experience.
• EKG technician training programs typically cover topics such as EKG interpretation, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and the operation of EKG machines.
• EKG technicians may also choose to obtain certification through organizations such as the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians or Cardiovascular Credentialing International to enhance their job prospects.

ACLS vs EKG: Career Outlook and Salary

ACLS Technician:

• The demand for ACLS technicians is expected to grow due to the aging population and the increasing prevalence of heart disease.
• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of cardiovascular technologists and technicians, which includes ACLS technicians, is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and technicians was $58,730 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

EKG Technician:

• The demand for EKG technicians is also expected to grow as the population continues to age and the need for diagnostic testing increases.
• According to the BLS, the employment of cardiovascular technologists and technicians, which includes EKG technicians, is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029.
• The median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and technicians was $58,730 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Final Thoughts

Both ACLS and EKG technicians play important roles in the field of healthcare, particularly in the diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions. The decision to pursue a career as an ACLS or EKG technician will depend on your interests, career goals, and desired level of responsibility. If you thrive in high-stress, emergency situations and enjoy providing immediate care to patients in critical condition, ACLS may be the better fit for you. On the other hand, if you have a strong interest in diagnostic testing and prefer a more varied work environment, EKG technology may be the path to explore. Ultimately, both professions offer rewarding opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients and contribute to the field of cardiology.

Dreambound strategically offers its educational programs in diverse locations. To gain a thorough insight into the exciting opportunities within these two vocations, we encourage you to explore more detailed information by visiting:

• ACLS in Texas
• EKG in Texas
• ACLS classes near you
• EKG classes near you