PART ONE What Is an EKG Technician? 

An electrocardiograph technician, also known as an EKG technician, is an allied healthcare professional who uses specialized equipment to measure the heart’s electrical activity. Physicians and other medical professionals can use this information to diagnose and treat a patient’s cardiac health. 

Taking an EKG on a patient includes attaching electrodes to a patient’s chest, arms, and legs. EKG techs are responsible for explaining this process to patients, positioning patients appropriately for testing, and connecting the necessary electrodes. They then use the EKG machine to collect a result. 

After they ensure a clear reading, they report the information to the ordering physician. They can then confirm that a patient’s heart is healthy or make a diagnosis and a care plan if needed.

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Working as an EKG technician requires less education than many other medical professions and training can be completed in just a few months. It’s also an excellent entry point into the healthcare field for anyone looking to jumpstart their career.

This comprehensive guide will give you all the information you need to know to decide if becoming an EKG tech is right for you, including what an EKG tech does each day, their salary, career outlook in the profession, how to get started in the field, and more.

What Kind of Skills Do You Need to Be a Good EKG Technician?

EKGs are entirely non-invasive and painless procedures. However, the stress of injury or disease and being in the hospital setting can be worrisome for patients. For that reason, EKG techs need to possess a calm, courteous bedside manner.  

What Other Titles Do EKG Technicians Go By?

Depending upon their work environment, the equipment they operate, and their training, they may be referred to by a variety of titles other than EKG technician, including:

1. ECG Technician
2. Cardiac Monitor Technician
3. Cardiographic Technician
4. Rhythm Analysis Technician
5. Telemetry Monitor Technician

EKG vs ECG

Many people wonder why the abbreviation EKG is used instead of ECG.  Elektrokardiogramm is the German spelling, and it became common to use the abbreviation EKG in the United States to avoid confusion. 

PART TWOWhat Do EKG Technicians Do?

EKG technicians usually work in hospital settings and are also needed in outpatient clinics, diagnostic testing centers, labs, nursing and long-term care homes, and private physicians’ practices.

The job description can vary depending on location, but EKG techs generally perform the following duties:

1. Position patients correctly for monitoring
2. Educate patients about the testing procedures
3. Run EKG’s and attach leads to patients, chest, arms, and legs
4. Perform stress tests
5. Prep patients for Holter monitoring (a type of ambulatory EKG device)
6. Obtain a baseline record of the heart’s function for comparison to future electrocardiograms
7. Deliver test results to physicians, nurse practitioners, or other medical professionals.
8. Perform administrative tasks related to patient appointments and record-keeping
9. Maintain EKG equipment
10. Schedule appointments

Though physicians will interpret all EKG test results, technicians must be able to review the tests to identify irregularities that may appear so that medical personnel can be alerted to any concerning problems.

PART THREE EKG Technician Salary

According to Salary.com, the median annual EKG technician salary in the United States is $39,300. However, compensation can vary depending on:

1. Certification status
2. Level of education – associate degree or bachelor’s degree
3. Years of experience
4. The city and state you work in
5. The number of modalities you are qualified to perform (EKG techs who can work with Holter monitors and telemetry often make more money)

The type of facility you work in may also determine your salary.  For example, EKG techs who work in hospitals often earn more money than those who work in a physician’s office.

Highest Paying States for EKG Technicians

Some geographical areas may also go through periods where there is a shortage of qualified EKG techs, and many offer increased salaries depending on their situation.  

According to ZipRecruiter.com, the five states that pay the highest median salaries for EKG technicians are:

1. New York – $46,037 annually, or $22.13/hr
2. New Hampshire – $44,608 annually, or $21.45/hr
3. California – $44,152 annually, or $21.23/hr
4. Vermont – $42,146 annually, or $20.26/hr
5. Idaho – $41,595 annually, or $20.00/hr

It is essential to consider the cost of living in the geographical area where you live. In general, in cities with a higher cost of living, EKG techs often make a higher salary. However, if you can live in a town with a lower cost of living and commute to a job that pays more, it may be worth your time as you will keep more money in your pocket.

EKG Tech Benefits

Most EKG technicians who work full-time also receive benefits including health insurance, paid vacation time, and sick leave, tuition reimbursement, and more.

PART FOURHow Do You Become an EKG Technician?

EKG technician training requires less education than most other medical professions and can be a great first step for those interested in working in the healthcare field. 

Most employers prefer their staff to complete an EKG certification program before applying for a job. EKG certification programs usually take three to six months to complete. 

Step 1: Earn a high school diploma or GED

A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement to become an EKG tech. While in high school, consider taking higher-level math classes, anatomy and physiology, and other science courses. Those courses can help you understand the terminology and anatomy you will need to know as an EKG tech.

It is also not uncommon for EKG technicians to have earned an associate degree from a community college that includes practical training. Some EKG techs even have a four-year bachelor’s degree before they begin their career. 

Step 2: Complete an EKG technician program

Although completing an EKG technician program is not mandatory to start working as an EKG tech, many certificate programs are available in the US to give you the education you need to be successful. 

Upon completing an EKG tech program, students will be more comfortable working hands-on with EKG equipment and more confident working in the patient care environment.

Some of the skills and knowledge you will learn through an EKG technician program include:

1. Correct 6 and 12 lead ECG placement
2. Anatomy
3. Medical Terminology
4. Bedside manner

Step 3: Apply for a job as an EKG tech

Some students skip step 2 and move directly into step 3. Many EKG technicians are trained on the job by senior EKG technicians or other cardiology professionals. This orientation and training generally take about 4 to 6 weeks. You will have an opportunity to learn what students in an EKG tech program study. However, you will develop your knowledge and skills in an on-the-job orientation-type setting. 

Although it is not mandatory, some employers may prefer that candidates have healthcare experience. Having prior experience as a hospital volunteer or EMT can also put you ahead of your competition during interviews. 

Step 4: Get EKG Certified

Once you have at least one year of experience in the field working as an EKG tech, you are eligible for testing to become a certified EKG technician (CET) from the National Healthcare Association. To take the certification exam, you will need to:

1. Apply online
2. Select a location and date to take your certification exam
3. Study using the websites study guides and practice tests
4. Take the two-hour exam at a testing center. Some students also take a live proctored exam at another location.
5. Get your results within two days

The American Society of Electrocardiographic Technicians also offers EKG certification (CET). This certification program provides an e-learning platform that includes access to an academic supervisor, free practice tests, the ability to take the exam three times, and a digital copy of the EKG technician certification.

EKG techs can also become certified as Certified Cardiographic Technicians (CCT). This exam is for EKG techs who work with Holter monitoring and stress testing and want to validate this knowledge for employers.

Applicants who want to sit for the CCT exam must meet the following criteria:

1. Have a high-school diploma or GED
2. Have proof that you are in one of the following categories:
   1. Enrollment as a student or a graduate of a cardiovascular or EKG training program
   2. Employment in the field of cardiovascular technology or a recognized allied health field
   3. Completed a graduate or undergraduate degree in a science or physical health field

How to Become an EKG Technician

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Research the requirements to become an EKG technician. Learn about the job description and duties, and read the step-by-step process to start a career in the medical field.

• Emergency medical technicians and paramedics
• Medical appliance technicians
• Medical and clinical laboratory technicians
• Medical records and health information technicians

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Become an EKG Technician

Electrocardiograph (EKG) technicians, also known as cardiographic or electrocardiogram technicians, perform diagnostic tests to aid doctors in identifying and treating cardiovascular problems in patients. These tests help detect irregularities that may result in a heart attack or heart disease. Common duties include explaining procedures to patients, monitoring patients’ blood pressure, and positioning patients. A great deal of these technicians’ work time may be spent standing, and they sometimes need to lift or turn patients. Some technicians employed in medical facilities work overnight, evenings, or weekends.

Career Requirements

Degree Level	A high school diploma or its equivalent is required; postsecondary training can be helpful
Certification	None required, although many employers prefer to hire candidates who are certified
Experience	Previous healthcare experience may be preferred
Training	On-the-job training is provided
Key Skills	Attention to detail, dependability, compassion and ability to cooperate, knowledge of electrodiagnostic machine operation; a current basic cardiac life support (BCLS) healthcare provider certification and current CPR card, ability to lift 15-20 pounds
Median Annual Salary (2020)*	$32,118 (for EKG technicians)

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, HealthcareSource.com job postings (July 2012), *Payscale.com, O*Net Online

Now, let’s check out the career steps for EKG technicians.

Career Steps

Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or its Equivalent

Most employers require applicants to hold a high school diploma or its equivalent. Individuals wishing to further their education generally will need to possess a high school diploma or its equivalent to meet admissions requirements.

In high school, consider taking math and science courses. High school students interested in pursuing careers as EKG technicians after graduation should take courses in mathematics, anatomy, and physiology.

Step 2: Gain Experience in the Healthcare Field

While EKG technicians generally are given on-the-job training, employers may prefer that applicants have some previous healthcare experience. Becoming nurses, paramedics, or EMTs can give individuals the knowledge base necessary to begin careers as EKG technicians.

Step 3: Complete On-the-Job Training or an EKG Technician Program

According to the Alliance of Cardiovascular Professionals, on-the-job training is the primary path to becoming an EKG technician. Training usually takes about four to six weeks to complete and is performed under the supervision of a cardiologist or EKG supervisor.

However, EKG technician certification programs are available at several colleges throughout the country. These programs train students on using the EKG machine and practicing correct 12-lead placement on patients. Programs may also cover medical terminology, anatomy, and legal aspects of interacting with patients. Students will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with EKG equipment and gain hands-on experience during labs.

Step 4: Obtain Certification

Cardiovascular Credentialing International offers a certification examination for EKG technicians who have the required experience or education. The Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) credentialing is not required, but the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that employers prefer applicants who have earned professional certification. Students who have completed an approved EKG training program or who have at least six months of experience will also be eligible to take the Electrocardiograph (EKG) Technician exam offered by the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT).

It’s important to review for the exam. Individuals interested in taking the Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) exam should visit the Cardiovascular Credentialing International website to review sample questions and reference materials.

Step 5: Complete Further Training

Individuals who wish to advance their skills can learn how to perform more specialized EKG tests, Holter monitoring, and stress tests. This additional on-the-job training typically takes 18-24 months to complete and usually requires intensive study of physiology and cardiovascular anatomy. This training may increase job prospects and create opportunities for career advancement.

To recap, with a high school diploma, on-the-job training or possibly a training program, an EKG technician can earn about $32,118 a year to perform diagnostic tests to aid doctors in identifying and treating cardiovascular problems in patients