How to Become an EKG Technician in Texas
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EKG Technicians play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring heart conditions. With cardiovascular disease remaining one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., skilled EKG professionals are in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of EKG Technicians is projected to grow by 4% from 2023 to 2033. This guide explains how to become an EKG Technician in Texas, covering education, certification, salary insights, and career opportunities.
Key Points
- An EKG Technician performs diagnostic tests to measure and record the heart’s electrical activity using specialized equipment.
- In Texas, EKG Technicians must complete an accredited training program and obtain national certification, such as the CET from NHA.
- Most EKG Technician programs take 3 to 12 months to complete.
- The average EKG Technician salary in Texas is $56,240 per year.
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Quick Answer
To become an EKG Technician in Texas, you must have a high school diploma or GED, complete an accredited EKG Technician training program, and pass a national certification exam such as the CET from the NHA. Training programs typically last 3 to 12 months, and certified EKG techs in Texas earn about $56,240 annually.
What is an EKG Technician?
A EKG Technician (Electrocardiogram Technician) is a healthcare professional who performs non-invasive tests to evaluate a patient’s heart function. These tests help diagnose conditions such as arrhythmias, heart disease, and cardiac distress.
What Does an EKG Technician Do?
- Attach: Place electrodes on the patient’s chest, arms, and legs
- Operate: Use EKG machines to record heart rhythms
- Monitor: Observe and report irregular heartbeats
- Ensure Accuracy: Maintain quality test results and troubleshoot issues
- Collaborate: Share results with physicians for diagnosis
Where Do EKG Technicians Work?
EKG Technicians in Texas work in a range of clinical and diagnostic settings:
- Hospitals: Cardiology units, emergency rooms, and intensive care departments
- Clinics: Outpatient cardiology or primary care settings
- Physician Offices: Especially cardiologist offices
- Rehabilitation Centers: Track heart recovery and monitor physical therapy progress
- Diagnostic Labs: Assist with stress testing, Holter monitors, and telemetry
Requirements to Become an EKG Technician in Texas
To become an EKG Technician in Texas, you must meet specific criteria:
Education Requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED: Required to begin training
- Training Program: Completion of a state-approved or nationally accredited EKG Technician program
Certification Requirements:
- National Certification: Most employers require passing an exam such as:
- CET (Certified EKG Technician) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
- ETC (EKG Technician Certification) from the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)
Legal Requirements:
- Texas does not require a state license, but employers often follow Texas Medical Board recommendations and prefer certified technicians.
How to Become an EKG Technician in Texas
1. Complete an Accredited EKG Training Program
Enroll in a program at a community college, vocational school, or healthcare training center.
Tip: Use Dreambound to find and compare EKG Technician programs near you in cities like Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio.
2. Gain Practical Experience
Most programs include clinical hours or externships that allow you to work with real patients using EKG equipment in supervised environments.
3. Obtain EKG Certification
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Common certifications include:
You must pass a written exam and sometimes demonstrate hands-on proficiency.
4. Apply for Jobs as an EKG Technician
Search for EKG tech jobs at hospitals, clinics, and cardiology centers. Customize your resume to highlight your training and certification. Use MyNextMove.org to search for jobs.
5. Maintain and Renew Certification
Most certifications require renewal every two years, often involving continuing education (CE) hours. Stay current with new technologies and procedures.
Career Paths and Opportunities After Becoming an EKG Technician
Once certified, you can specialize or move into advanced roles:
- Advanced Cardiac Testing Technician: Focus on stress testing, telemetry, and Holter monitoring
- Cardiovascular Technologist: With further training, assist in cardiac catheterization and imaging
- Medical Assistant or Patient Care Tech: Cross-train to support more aspects of patient care
- EKG Instructor or Trainer: Teach EKG techniques in training programs
- Healthcare Supervisor: Transition into leadership roles within diagnostic labs or cardiac units
FAQs
How do I become a certified EKG tech in Texas?
Answer: First complete a training program, then pass a national certification exam such as the CET from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
How much do EKG techs make in Texas?
Answer: The average salary for EKG Technicians in Texas is $56,240 per year, or about $27 per hour, depending on location and experience.
How fast can you become an EKG tech?
Answer: Many programs take as little as 3 months, while others may last up to a year.
What are the top 3 job requirements for an EKG technician?
Answer:
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Training: Completion of an accredited EKG program
- Certification: CET or similar national credential
Final Thoughts
A career as an EKG Technician in Texas is a fast-track way into healthcare. You’ll play a crucial role in cardiac diagnostics and patient care, often with just a few months of training. With competitive pay, certification options, and career growth, now is the perfect time to start.
Ready to begin? Explore accredited EKG Technician programs near you at Dreambound today.
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Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.