Online EKG classes | Dreambound

Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) certification

Are you interested in pursuing a career as an EKG Technician? Online EKG Technician classes provide a flexible and convenient way to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. With the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, becoming an EKG Technician can be a rewarding path. In this article, we'll explore the world of online EKG Technician classes and provide you with valuable insights.

What is an ECG/EKG Technician?

An ECG (Electrocardiogram) EKG Technician is a vital member of the healthcare team. These professionals conduct electrocardiogram tests, which measure and record the electrical activity of your heart. This information is crucial for physicians and cardiologists to diagnose and monitor various heart conditions. By becoming an EKG Technician, you could play a key role in helping patients maintain their heart health.

Can you learn EKG online?

Absolutely! With the advancement of online education, it's now possible to obtain comprehensive training and earn your EKG Technician certification through online courses. These courses are designed to provide you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to perform electrocardiogram tests effectively.

What you'll learn during your online EKG Technician course

During an online EKG Technician course, you can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of the following topics:

Anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system
Principles of electrocardiography
Proper placement of electrodes and lead systems
Interpretation of ECG/EKG readings
Patient preparation and care
Medical terminology related to cardiology
Legal and ethical considerations in healthcare

Where to find online EKG classes?

At Dreambound, we've created a platform to help people find the right career-focused education. Our search engine lets you compare different class options across 80+ programs. Our AI-powered career coach can match you with the best program based on your background and goals, providing a personalized plan and support. Explore these online EKG Technician classes:

Highest-rated Online EKG Technician programs

CareerStep

Self-paced, at your own schedule
Not available for students in AZ, MA, ND, SD, WA
Cost: $3,799, with flexible payment options available
Average rating of 4.5 stars on over 5300 reviews

MedCerts

Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7
In-person externship matching is done after class
Cost: 2,000 total, loans and WIOA funding may be available
Not available in all states.

As one of our students, Dawn Mungia shared, "This school is really awesome! The teachers here are super smart and helpful, and they really care about us students. I feel like I belong here because everyone is so friendly and welcoming. Plus, there are plenty of cool activities to get involved in, making learning fun and interesting. I'm so grateful to be a part of this amazing school."

Other online programs

If you're thinking about a potential career transition, Dreambound offers other online healthcare training programs. Dive in below:

Online Patient Care Technician classes: Master CNA, Phlebotomy, and EKG skills in one comprehensive program!
Online Medical Assistant classes: You'll work under the supervision of physicians and perform various administrative, clinical, and laboratory tasks to support patient care. Some of your tasks may include taking vital signs (which can complement EKG Technicians).
Online Phlebotomy classes: While not directly related to electrical activity of the heart like EKG, it involves similar patient interaction.

You can read our detailed guides to help you with making an informed decision:

Learn more about becoming an EKG Technician

Do I need to be certified to work as an EKG Technician?

While certification is not always mandatory, obtaining an EKG Technician certification can significantly enhance your employment prospects and demonstrate your competence in the field. Many employers prefer or require certified EKG Technicians, as it ensures a certain level of knowledge and skills.

Which states require certification to work as an EKG Technician?

Here are some of the states that require certification for EKG Technicians:

California
Florida
Nevada
Oregon
Tennessee
West Virginia

Keep in mind that certification requirements can change over time, so it's always best to check with the state's licensing board or relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information.

What type of certification is typically required in states with mandatory certification?

In states that require certification, EKG Technicians are often required to obtain certification from recognized organizations such as the:

National Healthcare Association (NHA)
American Society of Electrocardiogram Technicians (ASET)
National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)

These certifications typically involve passing an exam after completing an approved training program or meeting specific eligibility criteria.

Where do I work as an EKG Technician?

EKG Technicians can find employment in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, physician's offices, diagnostic laboratories, and ambulatory care centers. They may work alongside cardiologists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to provide essential diagnostic services.

Career advancement opportunities for EKG Technicians

After gaining experience as an EKG Technician, you may consider the following career advancement opportunities:

Cardiac Sonographer (Echocardiographer): As a cardiac sonographer, you create images of the heart's structure, function, and blood flow using specialized ultrasound equipment. These images help doctors diagnose and treat various cardiovascular conditions.
Cardiovascular Technologist: You perform diagnostic tests and procedures for the cardiovascular system, including the heart and blood vessels. This may involve using equipment such as electrocardiograms (EKGs), stress tests, Holter monitors, and other technologies to assess heart function and identify potential issues.
Healthcare Management or Administration roles: You may consider pursuing management or administrative positions within healthcare organizations. These roles may include overseeing operations, managing staff, developing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulations, and contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare facilities or departments.

EKG Technician classes by city

For those preferring in-person or hybrid learning, numerous community colleges and vocational schools across major U.S. cities provide EKG classes. Check available resources, search by zip code if your city isn't listed.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining an EKG online offers convenience and accessibility, especially for individuals who may have difficulty accessing traditional healthcare services. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can navigate the process of getting an EKG online with ease. Remember to choose a reputable online service provider, prepare for the EKG, and follow any instructions provided by the healthcare professionals involved. By doing so, you can ensure accurate results and receive the necessary guidance for your health and well-being.

If you're exploring options in this field in various locations, Dreambound's extensive guides are a great resource. We've got detailed insights for different states. Check out some additional guides below:

Written by

Lea Legaspi

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