Certified EKG Technician

If you’re considering a career as an EKG Technician or aiming to become a Certified EKG Technician, you’ve landed on the right page.

EKG Technicians have a vital role in conducting and analyzing electrocardiogram tests, providing crucial insights into a patient’s cardiovascular health.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the world of Certified EKG Technicians, explaining what it entails and guiding you through the steps to obtain and maintain your certification.

Whether you’re starting your journey or seeking to enhance your knowledge, we’ve got you covered with all the essential information you need.

What Is A Certified EKG Technician?

A Certified EKG Technician (CET) is a healthcare expert who has achieved a nationally-recognized certification in EKG technology, typically provided by institutions like the NHA.

To earn this certification, you must apply for and successfully pass the certification exam, officially establishing yourself as a Certified EKG Technician.

Employers highly value an EKG Technician Certification as it instills confidence and trust. It serves as evidence that you possess the necessary expertise, skills, and competency to conduct electrocardiogram (EKG) tests and perform related responsibilities with precision.

Also see: Facts About EKG Technicians

Why Should You Get Certified?

Employers prefer Certified EKG Technicians. It shows trustworthiness, competence, and dedication. With certification, you stand out among job applicants.

In fact, over 87% of employers encourage or require it. (According to a Recent Survey)

So, even if you’re seeking an entry-level EKG Technician position, certification can give you an edge.

Which EKG Certification Should You Get?

Getting certified as an EKG Technician is crucial. But which certification should you pursue?

The Best Choice is the Certified EKG Technician or CET Certification offered by the NHA. It’s highly preferred by employers and widely obtained by EKG Technicians.

How To Obtain CET Certification & Become A Certified EKG Technician?

Now, you know the benefits. But how would you become a certified EKG technician? Here is the step-by-step guide you need to follow:

Step 1 – Obtain High School Diploma/GED

The minimum basic educational requirement to become an EKG Tech or any crucial member in the healthcare sector is having a high school diploma or GED.

Step 2 – Completing an EKG Technician Training Program

To pursue a career as an EKG Technician, you must enroll in a training program. In this program, you’ll gain knowledge about the cardiovascular system, learn how to perform EKG tests and understand the duties of an EKG Technician.

Also, read EKG Technician Training.

A training program serves as the foundation for your EKG Technician career. If you’re looking to save time and money, we suggest considering an online training program for a faster and more affordable option.

See: How Long Is EKG Technician Training?

Step 3 – Conduct A Minimum Of 10 EKG Tests

To be eligible for the CET exam, it’s important to meet certain requirements. One of the main requirements is completing an EKG Tech training program.

Additionally, you must successfully conduct a minimum of 10 EKG tests on patients under the supervision of an experienced doctor or physician. This hands-on experience is essential to qualify for appearing in the exam.

Step 4 – Register Online for The Exam

So, you have successfully completed the course and have also gained some handy experience. Now, you are exam ready.

To apply for the certification exam, you need to register online on the NHA website. The process is easy. First, create an account, and then simply follow the steps shared on the website.

Step 5 – Schedule the Exam as per Your Preference

After you register successfully, find the available time slots at your convenience and choose your nearest exam center. The exam centers are usually some pre-decided NHA-accredited schools.

Only the best training program can prepare you better for your exams. So, choose the programs wisely.

However, if you want some revisions, there are some study materials available online, including some guides, practice questions, and exam preparation materials.

Step 6 – Appear for Your Exam

There will be a total of 100 MCQ (multiple-choice questions) and 20 pretest questions in a CET Examination. The passing mark is 390, i.e., 78%.

Step 7 – Get Your Result

After all the hard work, time, and dollars you put in, this could be the day you officially become a certified EKG Technician. The NHA usually posts the results within 2 days from the date of the exam.

But what happens if someone fails the exam?

Well, better luck next time.

You should not worry if you have failed on the first attempt. There are a total of three attempts to become an EKG technician.

If you fail in the first attempt, you can appear for the exams after 30 days.
If you fail on the second attempt as well, you can again re-appear for the third attempt after 30 days from the date of the exam.
Then, if you fail on the third attempt, you have to wait for a minimum of 12 months to re-appear for the exams.

Top Duties of a Certified EKG Technician

Here are the top responsibilities of a Certified EKG Technician:

Conduct electrocardiogram (EKG) tests on patients accurately and report to the doctor if any abnormalities are observed.
Operate and monitor EKG machines.
Deal with the patients with compassion, and keep patience while explaining the process of an EKG test to a patient. Ensure their comfort and safety while preparing and during the tests.
Maintain the EKG equipment. Recognize and troubleshoot any technical issues with the EKG equipment.
Document and maintain accurate records of EKG results and patient information.

Also see: What does an EKG Technician Do?

How Much Do EKG Technicians Make?

As per Indeed, the annual median wage is above $50,000. The best part, the job growth rate for EKG techs is predicted to grow by 8-10% in the next decade.

Related Resources:

Grant Aldrich

Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.