EKG Technician

How to Become an EKG Technician in New Jersey & Pennsylvania

An electrocardiograph technician, also known as an EKG technician, plays a crucial, valuable role in the healthcare industry. Someone aspiring to this meaningful profession must first complete the necessary education and training requirements at a medical assistant school.

At Pennco Tech, students in the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania gain the skills and knowledge they need for this career path through our in-depth Medical Assistant Program at our campuses in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ. Learn more about what an EKG technician does and the different roles you can pursue.

What is an EKG Technician?

As part of the cardiovascular team, EKG technicians help doctors identify and treat cardiovascular conditions in patients by using specialized equipment to perform diagnostic tests such as electrocardiograms, stress tests, and telemetry monitoring tests. EKG technicians work in various healthcare facilities, private practices, and long-term specialty care facilities.

Before administering the exam, an EKG technician will accurately explain the test to the patient, ensuring the patient understands the purpose of the test. During the examination, an EKG specialist will measure basic vital signs, perform rapid response procedures, operate an EKG machine, and identify rhythms. Along with conducting the electrocardiogram, EKG technicians have a variety of other responsibilities, which may include:

• Maintaining testing equipment and supply inventory
• Performing related office administrative tasks, such as recording tests results, organizing information, and entering data
• Conducting best practices according to the healthcare facility’s procedures
• Completing any additional training programs required by the healthcare system
• Assisting physicians during procedures

What are the Educational Requirements for EKG Technicians

To apply for EKG technician roles, an individual must first attain the required training at a vocational school. With the Medical Assistant Program at Pennco Tech, students gain theoretical insights and practical skills to have a successful career as an EKG technician. The 18-week course features an engaging curriculum taught by dedicated instructors and covers a variety of topics. Upon completion of the program, students take the lessons and hands-on training they received and use them to further their careers in the medical field.

Why Become an EKG Technician?

The fast-growing healthcare field produces several highly regarded professions, including EKG technicians. This position offers a variety of desirable features, such as:

Making a Difference

Many individuals crave a profession that helps make a positive impact on people’s lives. As with most other jobs in the healthcare sector, EKG technicians empower people to meet their patients’ vital medical needs. By working closely with physicians to provide the best care possible, these specialists improve the overall health and quality of life of patients.

Job Stability

Job stability is a desirable trait among those looking to start their careers. Prospective workers want to know the time and effort they put into school and training will carry them through their entire professional careers.

The healthcare industry is known as a very stable career field, most notably for EKG techs. Demand for EKG techs is projected to grow 14% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. More so, around 12,000 openings for medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians are projected each year, on average, for the next decade.

Above Average Compensation

The potential to earn a comfortable living most likely plays a role in your decision of which profession to pursue. With an average salary of $62,020, the EKG technician is one of the highest compensated healthcare jobs that do not require a four-year degree. Compare that to the annual mean wage of $58,260 for all occupations in the US.

Additional Career Paths For EKG Technicians

Another benefit of becoming an EKG technician is the versatility of your skills. The competencies you gain through a trade school program will also enable you to seek the following other occupations:

• Health unit clerk
• Medical claims examiner
• Phlebotomist
• Medical assistant

Discover Your Path as an EKG Technician at Pennco Tech

If becoming an EKG technician sounds like the ideal career path for your professional goals and lifestyle needs, consider enrolling in the Medical Assistant Program at Blackwood, NJ, and Bristol, PA, campuses of Pennco Tech. Upon completion of the program, students will have obtained the necessary skills and knowledge to explore various roles for EKG technicians, as well as other opportunities in the medical field. For more information regarding our trade school programs and how Pennco Tech can aid you in achieving a meaningful career, contact us today.