EKG Technician
Quick Facts
Median Salary$67,011
Most Common EducationHigh school or GED
Projected 10-Year Growth+36.63%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment
What They Do
An EKG Technician assists with specialized tests using an electrocardiogram machine, to monitor the performance of a patient's heart. Works under the direction of a physician or specialist. Explains test procedures to patients, sets up and runs equipment and monitors readings. Provides reports and readings from the test to a physician for analysis.
Core Tasks:
- Conduct electrocardiogram (EKG), phonocardiogram, echocardiogram, stress testing, or other cardiovascular tests to record patients' cardiac activity, using specialized electronic test equipment, recording devices, or laboratory instruments.
- Explain testing procedures to patients to obtain cooperation and reduce anxiety.
- Monitor patients' blood pressure and heart rate using electrocardiogram (EKG) equipment during diagnostic or therapeutic procedures to notify the physician if something appears wrong.
- Obtain and record patient identification, medical history, or test results.
- Monitor patients' comfort and safety during tests, alerting physicians to abnormalities or changes in patient responses.
- Prepare and position patients for testing.
- Attach electrodes to the patients' chests, arms, and legs, connect electrodes to leads from the electrocardiogram (EKG) machine, and operate the EKG machine to obtain a reading.
- Adjust equipment and controls according to physicians' orders or established protocol.
- Check, test, and maintain cardiology equipment, making minor repairs when necessary, to ensure proper operation.
- Supervise or train other cardiology technologists or students.
What to expect as an EKG Technician
1Earn a High school or GED Diploma
16% of people achieve this level of education.
2Gain skills and experience
See EKG Technician related courses on Tallo
3Land a job
1270 openings for EKG Technicians
Career Progression
in United States (Nation)
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