Key Points:

• CNAs provide basic patient care, while EKG techs perform diagnostic tests to monitor heart health.
• CNAs typically earn less than EKG techs.
• CNA jobs are more widely available, as they are needed in various healthcare settings, while EKG tech jobs are more specialized and found primarily in hospitals and cardiology clinics.
• CNA training can be completed through online or in-person programs, while EKG tech training is typically done in-person through technical schools or community colleges.
• CNA training is generally less expensive and shorter, often taking 4-12 weeks, compared to EKG tech training, which can take 6 months to 2 years to complete.

In the healthcare industry, there are many different career paths available for those who are interested in providing direct patient care. Two popular options are becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or an Electrocardiograph Technician (EKG). While both roles involve working with patients in a clinical setting, there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we will explore what it means to be a CNA and an EKG Technician, the differences between the two, as well as the education and training requirements, career outlook, and salary potential for each profession. Regardless of whether you want to become a CNA or an EKG Technician, Dreambound is here to help you find a training program near you.

What is a CNA and EKG?

CNA

• A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides basic care to patients in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare.
• CNAs assist with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, feeding, and ambulating patients.
• They also take vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse, and report any changes or concerns to the nursing staff.
• CNAs may also assist with medical procedures under the supervision of a nurse, such as inserting catheters or changing wound dressings.

EKG

• An Electrocardiograph Technician (EKG) is a healthcare professional who specializes in performing electrocardiograms, which are tests that monitor the electrical activity of the heart.
• EKG technicians work closely with doctors and nurses to provide accurate and timely results.
• They apply electrodes to a patient's chest, arms, and legs, and then use specialized equipment to measure and record the electrical impulses of the heart.
• EKG technicians may also assist with stress tests or Holter monitoring, which involves wearing a portable EKG device for an extended period of time to monitor heart activity.

Difference between a CNA and EKG

• Scope of Practice: CNAs focus on providing direct patient care and assisting with activities of daily living, while EKG technicians specialize in performing electrocardiograms and monitoring heart activity.
• Level of Responsibility: CNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses, while EKG technicians often work independently under the guidance of a physician.
• Patient Population: CNAs work with a diverse range of patients, including those of all ages and medical conditions. EKG technicians primarily work with patients who require heart monitoring or diagnostic testing.
• Variety of Duties: CNAs have a wide range of responsibilities, including bathing, dressing, feeding, and assisting with medical procedures. EKG technicians have a more specialized focus on performing electrocardiograms and related tests.
• Physical Demands: CNAs often have physically demanding job duties, such as lifting and transferring patients. EKG technicians have less physically demanding duties, but may spend long periods of time standing or sitting while performing tests.

CNA vs EKG: Job Description

CNA

• CNAs are responsible for providing basic care to patients, including assisting with activities of daily living, taking vital signs, and reporting any changes to the nursing staff.
• They also provide emotional support to patients and their families, and may assist with medical procedures under the supervision of a nurse.
• CNAs work closely with nurses and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive high-quality care.

EKG

• EKG technicians are responsible for performing electrocardiograms and monitoring heart activity.
• They apply electrodes to the patient's chest, arms, and legs, and then use specialized equipment to measure and record the electrical impulses of the heart.
• EKG technicians may also assist with stress tests or Holter monitoring, and are responsible for ensuring accurate and timely results.
• They work closely with doctors and nurses to provide important diagnostic information for patients with heart conditions.

CNA vs EKG: Education and Training

CNA

• To become a CNA, individuals must complete a state-approved training program, which typically takes 4-12 weeks to complete.
• These programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities.
• The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training, where students practice their skills in a supervised setting.
• After completing the training program, individuals must pass a state competency exam to become certified.
• Some states also require CNAs to participate in continuing education courses to maintain their certification.

EKG

• The education and training requirements for EKG technicians vary by state and employer.
• Some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent, while others may prefer candidates who have completed a formal training program.
• These training programs are typically offered at community colleges or vocational schools and can range from a few weeks to several months.
• The curriculum includes classroom instruction, hands-on practice with EKG equipment, and clinical rotations in healthcare settings.
• EKG technicians may also choose to pursue professional certification, such as the Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) credential offered by the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).

CNA vs EKG: Career Outlook and Salary

CNA

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of nursing assistants is projected to grow 4 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
• The demand for CNAs is driven by the aging population and the need for long-term care services.
• The median annual wage for CNAs was $35,760 in May 2022, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $45,940.

EKG

• The BLS does not provide specific data for EKG technicians, but the demand for healthcare professionals is expected to continue to grow.
• As the population ages and cardiovascular diseases become more prevalent, there will be an increased need for diagnostic testing and monitoring.
• The median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and technicians, which includes EKG technicians, was $63,020 in May 2022, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $102,000.

Final Thoughts

Both CNAs and EKG technicians play important roles in the healthcare industry and provide essential care to patients. While CNAs focus on providing direct patient care and assisting with activities of daily living, EKG technicians specialize in performing electrocardiograms and monitoring heart activity. The education and training requirements for each profession vary, with CNAs typically completing a shorter training program compared to EKG technicians. The career outlook for both professions is positive, with opportunities for growth and competitive salaries. Ultimately, the choice between becoming a CNA or an EKG technician will depend on an individual's interests, skills, and career goals.

Dreambound offers programs in multiple locations. For in-depth information on the intricacies of these two vocations, their prerequisites, and steps to join, explore the following blogs:

• CNA in Connecticut
• EKG in Connecticut
• CNA classes near you
• EKG classes near you