Electrocardiographic
(EKG or ECG)
Technician

One of the familiar diagnostic tests is the electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), which records heart activity. An EKG technician can perform this test with on-the-job training in a hospital or clinic. EKG equipment monitors variations in the electrical potential produced by the heart. Electrical changes that occur during a heartbeat are recorded as tracings on an electrocardiogram. The record is used by cardiologists (physicians specializing in heart problems) to diagnose irregularities in heart function.

Work Environment
The electrocardiogram technician prepares the patient for the exam by attaching electrodes to the chest, arms, and legs. EKG technicians must be able to recognize emergencies and alert the physician. EKG technicians can be employed in the EKG departments of large hospitals, or they may work in small hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices, cardiac rehabilitation centers, and health maintenance organizations (HMOs).

Job Outlook
Employment of electrocardiogram technicians is expected to decline as hospitals train registered nurses and others to perform basic EKG procedures. Individuals who seek to specialize in other areas such as stress testing and Holter monitoring are expected to have more favorable job prospects than those who can perform only basic EKG tests.

Length of Training
The minimal education requirement for an electrocardiogram technician is a high school diploma or its equivalent. Training for EKG technicians is usually on the job and generally lasts from three to six months. Some community colleges, hospitals, and vocational-technical institutions offer more specialized training lasting from one to two years.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $16,000 - $22,000.

Educational Programs
Technicians are trained on the job. Contact the hospital or medical faciality you are interested in for specific information.
San Antonio College
Career Centers of Texas - El Paso

Professional Associations
Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)
4456 Corporation Lane, Ste. 120
Virginia Beach, VA 23462-3151
800/326-0268 or 804/497-3380