How to become an EKG technician

Are you looking for a rewarding career path in the healthcare field that offers quick entry and competitive salaries? Then becoming a certified EKG Technician in 2024 might be the perfect fit for you!

This guide will equip you with all the information you need to embark on your EKG Technician journey, from the essential qualifications to acing the certification exam and landing your dream job.

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Why become an EKG Technician?

EKG Technicians, also known as Electrocardiogram Technicians, play a vital role in diagnosing heart conditions. They administer EKG tests, which measure the electrical activity of the heart, providing valuable data for cardiologists and other healthcare professionals.

Growing demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects a 10% growth rate for EKG Technicians between 2022 and 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Short training period: EKG Technician programs can be completed in as little as 2 weeks to 6 months, allowing you to enter the workforce quickly.
Competitive salary: The median annual wage for EKG Technicians is $41,130 (as of May 2023), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job security: The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects a 10% growth rate for EKG Technicians between 2022 and 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Steps to becoming a Certified EKG Technician in 2024

1. Earn your High School Diploma or GED

This is the minimum education requirement for most EKG Technician programs.

2. Enroll in an EKG Technician certification program

EKG programs can be delivered in person, online, or through a hybrid format. Dreambound works with numerous accredited institutions that offer online EKG Technician programs, including:

CareerStep

Self-paced, at your own schedule
8 months of program access
Hands-on clinical experience
Cost: $2,799, flexible payment plans are available. Discounts may be given to U.S. veterans, active duty service members, and their spouses.
Not available in all states

MedCerts

Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7, 12 weeks long.
After completion, MedCerts will work to match you with an externship site close to you. Not available for Wisconsin, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Washington, or Louisiana residents.
Cost: $2,000, with payment options and financial aid available for those who qualify through: MyCAA, state workforce funding (including WIOA), and Department of Defense Credentialing Assistance or COOL funding for the Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard
Not available for students in Wisconsin, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Louisiana, or Georgia.

TSC Career Institute

Flexible self-paced online program
Get certified in just 2 weeks
Cost: $950, you can pay $425 to start

3. Choose your certification

While certification isn't mandatory in all states, it's highly recommended by employers. Popular EKG Technician certifications include:

Certified Electrocardiogram Technician (CET) by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT), and the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)

4. Gain clinical experience

Some programs may include clinical externships, while others may require you to complete a certain number of EKGs under supervision after graduation.

5. Pass the certification exam

Successfully passing your chosen EKG Technician certification exam validates your knowledge and skills, making you a more attractive candidate to employers.

To prepare for certification exams, many candidates take advantage of study guides and practice tests that are available online. However, remember that these exams are rigorous and will test the full scope of your knowledge and skills in EKG technology.

What programs are similar to EKG?

Here are 3 top vocations similar to EKG technician, all working in the field of diagnosing and treating patients:

Phlebotomy Technician: Both professions require phlebotomists and EKG technicians to perform procedures directly with patients. Phlebotomy offers a faster and more affordable path to enter the healthcare field. This makes it a great choice if you're looking to start your career quickly or need to be mindful of costs.
Medical Assistant: While EKG Techs specialize in heart diagnostics, Medical Assisting offers a broader range of clinical duties, making it a good choice if you prefer a variety in your healthcare career.
Patient Care Technician: Consider a combined CNA, Phlebotomy, and EKG certification! It's a powerful combo, especially for hospital careers, despite being less common.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an EKG Technician?

Training programs typically last 2 weeks to 6 months.

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Where do EKG Technicians work?

EKG Technicians find opportunities in hospitals, clinics, doctor's offices, ambulatory surgical centers, and even home healthcare.

What are the working hours like for an EKG Technician?

Many work standard 40-hour weeks, but shifts can vary depending on the employer.

What is the salary and job outlook of EKG Technicians?

EKG Technicians earn a median annual salary of $62,240 (May 2023) with an expected 10% growth rate over the next decade, much faster than average

Can EKG Technicians advance into other medical roles?

Yes, with additional education and certifications, they can advance into specialized or broader cardiology roles such as getting a Cardiovascular Technician (CVT) degree to expand their skills and qualify for higher-paying positions.

Tips for success as an EKG Technician

Common challenges include managing anxious patients, staying updated with technological advancements, and maintaining precise attention to detail. To thrive as an EKG Technician, you'll need to possess the following qualities and skills:

Attention to detail: Accuracy is crucial in EKG interpretation, so a meticulous eye for detail is essential.
Communication and interpersonal skills: Building rapport with patients and clearly explaining procedures requires strong communication skills.
Compassion and empathy: Providing emotional support and understanding to patients experiencing health concerns is important.
Teamwork and collaboration: Working effectively with nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals is vital.
Problem-solving and critical thinking: Analyzing EKG readings and identifying potential abnormalities requires a problem-solving mindset.
Stress management: The ability to handle pressure and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment is crucial.

Advanced EKG Technician certifications

There are several advanced EKG technician certifications available that can enhance your skills and marketability. Some popular options include:

Certified Cardiac Rhythm Technician (CCRT): This certification focuses on advanced arrhythmia recognition and interpretation.
Certified Pacemaker Technician (CPT): This certification qualifies you to perform pacemaker checks and troubleshooting.
Certified Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (CCVIS): This advanced certification allows you to assist cardiologists during invasive cardiac procedures.

Take the next step!

Becoming an EKG Technician offers a fulfilling career path in healthcare. By researching EKG Technician programs, developing the necessary skills, and obtaining relevant certifications, you can launch your rewarding journey in this growing field.

Dreambound has written dozens of in-depth guides on how to get started in this field, with information specific to your city. If you're located somewhere else or thinking about moving, check out some other guides we've written:

Considering a different path?

If you're seeking a healthcare career with a broader range of duties, explore our comprehensive guides to other rewarding healthcare professions! We offer valuable insights on various career paths to help you find the perfect fit for your goals and interests.

Written by

Athena Kan

Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.

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