EKG Technician Job Description

EKG Techs are responsible for conducting and analyzing electrocardiogram (ECG) tests. They conduct these tests on an EKG machine and are responsible for reporting any irregularities in the heartbeat.

Based on these findings, the doctor can analyze the cardiovascular health of a patient and finalize the appropriate treatment.

If you’re interested in this career, you would want to know more about the job descriptions, top responsibilities, and skills you need to have as an EKG Tech.  Read on to learn more about EKG Techs.

EKG Technician Job Description Template

Here’s an example of a job description for an EKG Technician.

EKG  Technician Responsibilities

As an EKG Tech, you play an important role in monitoring an individual’s cardiovascular health.

Here are the top responsibilities you need to perform as an EKG Technician:

Conducting Cardiovascular Tests on Patients

One of the primary responsibilities of EKG Technicians is to perform cardiovascular tests on patients. With these tests, they can be sure about a patient’s heart condition, and in case they find some inconsistencies, they can inform the doctors accordingly.

Keeping Patients Informed on Every Step of the Procedure

They need to inform the patients about each and every step being taken during the procedure. They explain the process, answer any questions, and ensure the patient is comfortable and relaxed.

Identifying & Diagnosing Heart Conditions

As stated above, EKG Technicians, after conducting the test, identify and diagnose any heart conditions. EKG Technicians are trained to recognize certain patterns and deviations from normal heart rhythms, which they can then communicate to healthcare professionals for further evaluation.

Monitoring Patient’s Blood Pressure

As an EKG technician, you’ll be responsible for monitoring a patient’s blood pressure. This can include regularly checking and recording their blood pressure readings during certain procedures or examinations.

Gathering Cardiovascular Data

As an EKG technician, one of your crucial responsibilities is to gather cardiovascular data that doctors can analyze. Here’s a simplified explanation of how you contribute to this process:

An EKG Technician can be expected to gather cardiovascular data that can be further analyzed by the doctors for diagnosis and treatment planning. For instance, you can be responsible for gathering information related to the electrical activity of the patient’s heart, producing an EKG tracing.

In the report, you can fill in all the relevant details such as time, date, time, and patient identification as well.

To avoid any confusion, you can label these findings as well.

Working Alongside Doctors and Nurses.

EKG Technicians are actively involved in working alongside doctors and nurses to conduct different types of tests and maintain reports.

Setting Up EKG Components

As an EKG Technician, you will be actively responsible for maintaining and cleaning the EKG equipment. They need to be sure that the vital equipment, such as electrodes and leads, is well-stocked and ready for use.

Providing Patient Support and Reassurance

EKG technicians understand that patients may feel anxious during different types of procedures. They are expected to provide emotional support, reassurance, and clear instructions to help patients feel more safe and at ease.

Following Safety Protocols

EKG technicians are responsible to follow strict safety protocols to protect themselves and their patients as well. This involves proper disposal of used supplies, maintaining a sterile environment, and adhering to infection control procedures.

Recognizing Abnormalities

EKG technicians are supposed to be well-versed with knowledge of heart rhythms and patterns. They examine the EKG tracings and identify any irregularities or abnormalities that may indicate a heart condition or problem.

To know more, read: What does an EKG Technician do?

EKG Technician Skills

Here are a few skills that are required from an EKG Tech.

1. Technical Proficiency: As an EKG Tech, you need to be skilled in safely applying electrodes. This is important to ensure accurate (& clear) EKG Tracings.
2. Attention to Detail: An EKG tech needs to concentrate while conducting the test and noting the readings.
3. Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication skills are essential for interacting with patients, explaining procedures, and addressing their concerns.
4. Professionalism & Empathy: EKG technicians work directly with patients who may be experiencing anxiety or discomfort. Demonstrating professionalism, empathy, and a caring attitude can help patients feel more comfortable during the entire procedure.

Related:

EKG Technician Resume
EKG Technician Requirements
EKG Technician Education Requirements
EKG Technician Jobs
EKG Technician Salary