About Cardiac Monitor / EKG Technician

Welcome to the Cardiac Monitor / Electrocardiography (EKG) Technician certificate program! In this program, you'll learn how to read and understand the electrical signals of the heart, also known as an electrocardiogram. Through lessons and hands-on practice, you'll gain the skills needed to monitor heart rhythms and spot any problems. This knowledge is important because heart diseases are a major health concern, and knowing how to use a heart monitor can help doctors and nurses take better care of patients


Certificate Option

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Cardiac Monitor / Electrocardiography (EKG) Technician Certificate
The Cardiac Monitor / Electrocardiography (EKG) Technician program prepares students with the knowledge, experience, exposure and confidence to monitor and interpret cardiac telemetry rhythms as well as perform diagnostic testing to assess heart rhythm and rate.

Career Outlook

The need for EKG technicians is rising due to the increasing number of people with heart-related health issues, the aging population, and advancements in medical technology that require trained individuals to operate cardiac monitoring equipment.

Job Growth:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects steady growth in healthcare support occupations, and EKG technicians are no exception. Job opportunities are expected to grow by about 7% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all other occupations. This growth is driven by the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and the expanding use of EKGs in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient care centers.

Job Opportunities:
As a certified Cardiac Monitor / EKG Technician, you will have the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including:

  • Hospitals
  • Cardiology clinics
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Emergency medical services (EMS)
  • Long-term care facilities

You may also find opportunities with medical equipment companies, health insurance providers, and other healthcare support organizations.

Salary Expectations:
According to the BLS, the median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including EKG technicians, is around $58,000. However, wages can vary depending on your location, level of experience, and the specific healthcare facility you work for. Entry-level positions may start in the low $40,000 range, but with experience and additional certifications, you can expect to earn more.

Advancement Opportunities:
With experience, EKG technicians can advance to roles such as:

  • Senior EKG Technician
  • Cardiac Stress Technician
  • Lead Technician or Supervisor
  • Cardiovascular Technologist
  • Medical Equipment Sales or Training Specialist

Additionally, you may choose to pursue further certifications or specialize in areas like echocardiography, vascular technology, or electrophysiology to expand your career options.

Job Stability and Security:
Healthcare careers, particularly in roles like EKG technicians, are considered to be recession-resistant. People will always need medical care, and as heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death, the demand for qualified cardiac monitoring professionals will continue to grow. This means job security and stability are strong in this field.

By earning your Cardiac Monitor / EKG Technician certificate, you are setting yourself up for a fulfilling and rewarding career with many opportunities for growth and advancement.

 

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