An electrocardiograph technician is a healthcare professional who specializes in performing heart-related diagnostic tests. Electrocardiograph machines and Holter monitors are used to measure electrical activity in the heart. He or she places electrodes on the patient’s chest and wrists, which are then wired to machines or monitors. In order to detect heart disease and arrhythmias, heart activity and stress levels are monitored. The majority of electrocardiograph technicians complete a two- or four-year program at a community college, a specialized medical technician school, or a university.
Electrocardiographs and Holter monitors are diagnostic devices that detect electrical heart activity in patients while they are at rest. Patients with symptoms of heart disease or who are about to undergo surgery are frequently subjected to tests. Electocardiograph procedures are painless and noninvasive, taking less than ten minutes on average. To measure longer-term changes in heart activity, holter monitors are typically worn for about 24 hours. Stress tests, in which patients are hooked up to diagnostic machinery while doing something active like running on a treadmill, are also performed a skilled electrocardiograph technician.
The electrocardiograph technician is in charge of informing the patient about an upcoming test and collecting baseline vital sign data. He or she places electrodes on specific areas of the chest and wrists and then turns the machine on. The electrocardiograph, also known as a Holter monitor, is a device that records electrical activity and displays the results on paper or on a computer screen. When a test is finished, the technician removes the electrodes, checks that the patient’s vital signs are stable, and then sends the results to a doctor. Many technicians assist doctors in analyzing the results in order to make accurate heart diagnoses.
In most cases, an individual must complete a two or four-year training program in order to work as an electrocardiograph technician. Electrocardiograph training courses are available at many junior colleges, universities, and specialty schools, and include both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in medical settings. In order to learn different terminology and techniques, students receive detailed instruction from experienced medical professionals. New technicians are required to obtain professional licenses passing written exams in many states and countries.
Most new technicians learn specific on-the-job responsibilities assisting more experienced technicians. They can begin working independently once they are familiar with hospital policies and equipment. An electrocardiograph technician with several years of experience may be able to advance to supervisor, trainer, or administrator. Many seasoned professionals instruct courses at local colleges or hospital programs to assist others in learning the trade.