EKGs are tests that record heart activity, and an electrocardiography (EKG) technician’s job is to perform them. EKG technicians may be required to obtain certification in order to work in this field in some states. Some bachelor’s degree programs also demand certification. Furthermore, some employers prefer candidates who have obtained certification over those who have not. The certification process and requirements may differ depending on the location. In general, however, to become an EKG technician, you must enroll in or complete an education program, pay a fee, and pass an exam.
Depending on the jurisdiction in which you want to be certified and the organization through which you want to earn your credential, the requirements for EKG technician certification may differ. Because some jurisdictions have multiple certifying organizations, your first step may be to seek information from the certifying organization in your area. You can compare the organizations based on their eligibility requirements, exam costs, exam length, and content by doing so. After you’ve decided which certification process you want to pursue, you can move on to planning your education.
In order to be eligible for certification testing, EKG technician certification programs frequently require candidates to enroll in and complete an accredited educational program or to be enrolled in such a program. Education can be obtained in a variety of ways, but the first step is usually to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent. You can then enroll in a certificate or degree program in cardiovascular technology after earning one of these credentials. These programs usually include both classroom and laboratory instruction, as well as some clinical practice. You can also get a bachelor’s degree to prepare for a career as an EKG technician, but some programs require certification before admission, and others may require certification before graduation.
While the exact content of a cardiovascular technology program varies by school, it usually includes topics like anatomy and physiology, electrocardiography, and pharmacology. Medical technology and medical ethics, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid, are frequently covered. Bachelor’s degree programs typically last four years, while associate’s degree programs last two years. Certificate programs are typically completed in a year or less, though some are even shorter.
After you’ve met the requirements for EKG technician certification with the organization of your choice, you’ll usually have to pass an exam or a series of exams to get certified. In some places, this may include not only written exams, but also practical exams. Multiple-choice exams are common in written exams.