EKG technicians perform cardiac stress tests.
EKG technicians, also called cardiographic and electrocardiograph technicians, perform electrocardiographs, treadmill stress tests and Holter monitor tests on patients to measure cardiac health. Technicians develop skills through education and training, including formal training programs and on-the-job training. Education may include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology while training may cover the use and basic maintenance of EKG equipment. They generally work in hospitals, clinics or medical offices.
Testing Skills
EKG technician skills include the ability to conduct electrocardiograph and stress tests. This includes placing electrodes properly on the patient's body, operating sophisticated equipment while monitoring the patient, and recording the test results.
CPR Skills
EKG technicians are required to have cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills. Technicians are also skilled in taking patients' vital signs.
Mechanical Skills
EKG technicians are skilled in the operation of complicated electronic machines used to perform cardiac tests. Technicians require mechanical skills that enable them to understand how the equipment works and to identify, evaluate and resolve problems.
Computer Skills
Computers are used to perform the EKG and other cardiographic tests. Software programs or applications are used to interface with the testing equipment, requiring basic keyboarding skills and computer knowledge.
Communication Skills
EKG technicians need good communication skills to work effectively with patients and coworkers, particularly with nervous or stressed patients. Necessary communication skills include appropriate use of terminology and the ability to explain test procedures to patients, as well as the ability to accurately record information.
Organizational Skills
Records management, including confidentiality, is an important aspect of patient care. EKG technicians develop organizational skills to properly handle patient medical files, make required notations and complete forms. Some EKG technicians also schedule appointments.
Study Skills
EKG technicians need to learn new material, take continuing education courses and adapt to changes in policies, procedures and equipment. Study skills help technicians keep up to date.
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