Have you ever wondered what is an EKG technician and what they do?
EKG technicians use their knowledge and skills to help doctors ensure – your heart is healthy and ticking.
Let’s uncover – the Top 10 Duties of an EKG technician and the Top 10 Skills you need to have as an EKG Technician.
Top 10 Duties of an EKG Technician
Here are the top 10 Duties of an EKG Technician:
Preparing the Patient
First, an EKG technician prepares the patients for their electrocardiogram (EKG) test. You begin by explaining the procedure, answering their questions, and making them comfortable.
You need to understand this; the patients are typically nervous when they come for the ECG, so before the test, the technician makes sure they are calm and ready for the test.
You will be their friendly guide throughout the process! Don’t forget to be calm, patient, and compassionate.
Setting up the Equipment
Next, the EKG technician checks and sets up the EKG equipment. You will check its components and ensure all connections are attached correctly, thus ensuring the machine is working properly.
You will also effectively troubleshoot any issues with the equipment and get back to the patient for the next steps.
Placing the Electrodes
Next up – you’ll place those sticky electrodes on the patient’s chest, arms, and legs. These are painless stickers that help detect the electrical activity of the heart.
Think of them as special sensors that work like magic! Once the skin is clean, mark and gently place the electrodes.
Operating the EKG Machine
Once the electrodes are in place, the EKG technician operates the (EKG) machine. The equipment records the cardiac activity (heart’s electrical signals) and creates a picture called an electrocardiogram.
Monitoring the Test
During the test, you should monitor the EKG readings on the equipment. Closely observe the heart’s electrical patterns, and keep an eye out for any irregularities. If there seems any, report the same to the concerned doctor.
Recognizing Abnormalities
As an EKG technician, you will recognize abnormal heart patterns. You will learn to identify signs of conditions like arrhythmias, heart attacks, or heart diseases. Your keen eye will help doctors make accurate diagnoses.
Assisting the Medical Team
You are crucial in supporting the medical team. You should timely provide the EKG test results, helping them analyze and interpret the cardiac activity. You will be part of a dynamic team, contributing to patient care.
Maintaining Equipment
You should ensure that the EKG machine and other related equipment are clean and in good working condition. Regular maintenance ensures accurate and reliable results. Be the guardian of precision!
Ensuring Patient Safety
Patient safety is of utmost importance in the healthcare sector. As an EKG technician, you should follow strict protocols to maintain a hygienic environment.
You should ensure proper communication between staff regarding patient records while providing relevant updates and upholding privacy policies and HIPAA regulations.
Providing Comfort and Support
You will be working with people who are anxious about their heart health. You must provide comfort, compassion, and emotional support. Remember, your warm smile and kind words can make all the difference!
Customize Meal Plans
You may also be asked to customize meal plans for a patient based on diet restrictions, allergies, medical conditions, medication interactions, and macronutrient/micronutrient allowance.
However, you need to have a background in Nutrition or consult a Nutritionist before you can do that.
These are the top 10 duties of an EKG technician, but here is some advice – Continuous Learning.
Yes, learning never stops! Being an EKG technician is a lifelong learning journey. You should stay updated with the latest advancements in EKG technology, attend training sessions, and embrace opportunities for professional growth.
This profession offers great excitement, requires care, and demands the desire to make a difference in human lives.
Let us unveil the 10 Super Skills you must have as an EKG Technician.
Also see: Facts About EKG Technicians
Top 10 Skills of an EKG Technician
EKG technicians use their skills to ensure the Hearts around them are happy and healthy.
Attention to Detail
As an EKG technician, you should pay attention to every minute detail. You should carefully place the electrodes on the patient’s body to ensure accurate readings and carefully analyze the squiggly lines on the electrocardiogram (EKG) to spot any irregularities.
Technical Savviness
As an EKG technician, you should know how to operate the ECG equipment, adjust settings, and troubleshoot technical hiccups. You should ensure the machines work perfectly.
Communication Skills
EKG technicians are excellent communicators. You should listen attentively to the patient’s concern and explain the process in a friendly way. Ensure you make them feel comfortable throughout the test.
Problem Awareness
You must have a keen sense of problem awareness. You should quickly recognize if something isn’t quite right with the EKG machine or the test results. Your sharp instincts will help troubleshoot and resolve issues to ensure accurate readings.
Problem-Solving Abilities
You are a skilled problem solver. If something unexpected happens during a test, panic is the last thing your face reflects. You must remain calm and look for solutions fast while calming the patient positively.
Teamwork
EKG technicians are fantastic team players. You will closely collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, sharing important information and working together to provide the best care possible.
Time Management
You should know how to prioritize your tasks. Make sure; the tests are conducted efficiently, and the patients don’t have to wait. It is like being a timekeeper who knows how to make the most out of every heartbeat!
Adaptability
Your adaptability and flexibility will allow you to provide them with the best care possible, no matter the circumstances. You should be able to manage different situations, patients of all ages, and even unexpected challenges at ease.
Empathy and Compassion
It is expected from an EKG Technician to have your heart filled with empathy and compassion. Medical tests can be scary, especially for young patients, and you should be able to provide emotional support, reassurance, and a comforting presence.
Patience
It is expected of you to have oceans of patience. Remember, some patients are anxious or nervous during tests, and you should take the time to create a calm and comfortable environment.
Now, the Advice time: work on the most lacking skills – Professionalism and Communication.
Hone these skills and rise above the rest. And make sure you cite these skills on your EKG Technician Resume.
Read: How Long Is EKG Technician Training?
Why are these skills important?
Do you know what differentiates between a good employee and a great employee? Soft skills. One key aspect is to connect with people and make patients feel comfortable and at ease.
Professionalism generates trust among patients. It sends a vibe that you are dependable, competent, and; you take your work seriously. Patients requiring an EKG may be under a lot of stress. Your professionalism can boost their confidence and make them comfortable.
Communication skills are crucial in any profession. But when it comes to patient interactions, it is a must hake skill. You should explain the processes involved to the patients and address any questions or concerns. This way, you can put them at ease.
See: EKG Technician Requirements
Can we learn soft skills now?
Definitely! Just like any other skill, it takes willingness and some practice.
So, there you have it – the top 10 Duties and Skills of an EKG technician explained just for you. If you have a passion for helping others, a curious mind, and a desire to be part of the healthcare field, this might be the perfect fit for you.
Keep exploring, and who knows, maybe one day you will be the superhero in scrubs saving hearts and changing lives!
If you’re interested to start your career as an EKG tech, check out some of the resources given below.
See: Pros and Cons of Being an EKG Technician
Learn More:
- EKG Technician Jobs
- EKG Technician Job Description
- EKG Technician Certification
- Certified EKG Technician Salary
- EKG Technician Training
- CET Certification
- Certified EKG Technician
