EKG Technician

Program Overview

EKG technicians use electrodes and other specialized electronic equipment to obtain heart readings known as electrocardiographs (EKGs). They are able to trace and record electrical impulses transmitted by the patient's heart. The recorded data is then reviewed by a physician to evaluate the condition of the patient's heart. The doctor's diagnosis of heart disease is based upon the interpretation of EKG tracings. EKG's are also performed before and after operations, during physicals, for patients with a history of heart disease, when patients are experiencing chest pains and other instances when a physician deems it necessary.

An EKG Technician adheres electrodes to the patient's chest, arms and legs. An EKG machine is used to trace and record electrical impulses transmitted by the patient's heart. After data is collected, the EKG Technician prints an EKG for evaluation by the physician. An EKG Technician with advanced training may also perform Holter monitoring or stress testing.

Graduates of this program may sit for the EKG Technician Certification (ETC) exam given through the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) at no cost.

This program is not eligible for any Federal Financial Aid or VA programs.