EKG vs Respiratory Therapist

By Vduani MartinezUpdated May 20, 2026

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Key Points:

EKG technicians focus on monitoring and recording heart activity; Respiratory Therapists manage respiratory care for patients.
EKG technicians typically earn less than Respiratory Therapists, with the latter often earning higher salaries.
Both fields have steady job growth.
EKG technician training can be completed through certificate programs, while Respiratory Therapists require an associate's or bachelor's degree in respiratory care.
EKG technician training is generally shorter and less expensive than Respiratory Therapists training.

Healthcare is a rapidly growing industry, and there is a high demand for skilled professionals in various specialties. EKG technicians and respiratory therapists are two such professionals who are essential in diagnosing and treating patients with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. While both professions involve working closely with patients and using specialized equipment, there are key differences between the two roles that prospective students should consider when choosing a career path.

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What is an EKG and Respiratory Therapist?

Before delving into the differences between an EKG technician and a respiratory therapist, it's important to understand what each profession entails:

EKG Technician: An EKG (electrocardiogram) technician is responsible for performing tests to monitor the electrical activity of a patient's heart. They attach electrodes to the patient's chest, arms, and legs, and use specialized equipment to record the heart's electrical impulses. These tests help doctors diagnose and monitor heart conditions such as arrhythmias, heart attacks, and heart disease.
Respiratory Therapist: A respiratory therapist, on the other hand, focuses on the respiratory system. They work with patients who have breathing disorders or conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cystic fibrosis. Respiratory therapists evaluate patients, administer treatments, and educate them on managing their respiratory conditions. They may also assist with emergency procedures like intubation and mechanical ventilation.

Difference between an EKG and Respiratory Therapist

While both EKG technicians and respiratory therapists work with patients and play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating medical conditions, there are several key differences between the two professions:

Focus: EKG technicians primarily focus on the cardiovascular system, specifically the electrical activity of the heart. Respiratory therapists, on the other hand, focus on the respiratory system and the management of breathing disorders.
Equipment and Procedures: EKG technicians use specialized equipment to perform electrocardiograms and stress tests, which involve monitoring the heart's electrical activity during physical activity. Respiratory therapists, on the other hand, use equipment such as spirometers and nebulizers to evaluate lung function and deliver medications to patients. They may also perform procedures such as arterial blood gas sampling and pulmonary function tests.
Scope of Practice: EKG technicians typically work under the supervision of doctors or other healthcare professionals and are responsible for performing tests and providing accurate results. They do not diagnose or treat patients directly. Respiratory therapists, on the other hand, have a broader scope of practice. They may work independently or as part of a healthcare team and are involved in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of respiratory conditions.
Patient Population: EKG technicians primarily work with patients who have cardiovascular conditions or who are undergoing cardiac procedures. Respiratory therapists, on the other hand, work with patients of all ages who have respiratory disorders or conditions, from premature infants with underdeveloped lungs to elderly patients with chronic respiratory illnesses.

EKG vs Respiratory Therapist: Job Description

To better understand the day-to-day responsibilities of an EKG technician and a respiratory therapist, let's take a closer look at their job descriptions:

EKG Technician: The primary responsibility of an EKG technician is to perform electrocardiograms and other cardiac tests. This involves attaching electrodes to the patient's body, operating the EKG machine to record the heart's electrical activity, and documenting the results accurately. EKG technicians may also assist with stress tests and Holter monitor placements, as well as ensure the equipment is properly maintained and calibrated.
Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists work with patients who have breathing disorders or conditions. They evaluate patients, perform diagnostic tests such as spirometry and arterial blood gas sampling, and develop treatment plans to manage respiratory conditions. They may administer medications and therapies, educate patients on proper breathing techniques, and provide emergency care during respiratory distress. Respiratory therapists also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement care plans for patients.

EKG vs Respiratory Therapist: Education and Training

To pursue a career as an EKG technician or a respiratory therapist, specific education and training are required:

EKG Technician: EKG technician programs are typically short-term certificate programs that can be completed in a matter of months. These programs provide students with the knowledge and skills to perform electrocardiograms and other cardiac tests. Coursework may include anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, EKG interpretation, and hands-on training with EKG equipment. Some states may also require EKG technicians to be certified, which involves passing an exam.
Respiratory Therapist: Becoming a respiratory therapist requires more extensive education and training. Most respiratory therapy programs are associate degree programs that take around two years to complete. These programs cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, respiratory care procedures, and patient assessment. Students also gain practical experience through clinical rotations in hospitals or other healthcare settings. After completing their program, respiratory therapists must pass a national certification exam to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

EKG vs Respiratory Therapist: Career Outlook and Salary

When considering a career path, it's important to take into account the job outlook and potential earnings. Here's a look at the career outlook and salary potential for EKG technicians and respiratory therapists:

EKG Technicians: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of cardiovascular technologists and technicians, which includes EKG technicians, is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029. This growth is attributed to the aging population and the increased prevalence of heart disease. The median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and technicians was $59,100 as of May 2020, according to the BLS.
Respiratory Therapists: The BLS projects that the employment of respiratory therapists will grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by factors such as the aging population, the increased incidence of respiratory conditions like COPD, and advancements in technology. The median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $63,950 as of May 2020, according to the BLS.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in healthcare requires careful consideration of factors such as job responsibilities, education and training requirements, and career outlook. Both EKG technicians and respiratory therapists play critical roles in diagnosing and treating patients with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. While EKG technicians primarily focus on the heart's electrical activity, respiratory therapists specialize in the management of breathing disorders. Ultimately, the decision between these two professions should be based on individual interests, strengths, and career goals.

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