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Tuesday, September 4, 2012

EKG Technician Career Benefits

By Andrea Basa


EKG technicians work with electrocardiogram machines, also known as EKG machines. The machines are crucial in the work of an EKG technician to help save lives of people by detecting any underlying cardiovascular problems. Electrodes from the EKG are attached to the chest area, which sends electric waves to induce contractions and relaxation. By use of the machine, technicians can detect any abnormal heart activity which may be sights of arrhythmia, arterial fibrillation, and many more. The expertise required to operate the machine and interpret results requires a highly-skilled technician.

The work of an EKG technician is highly specialized which is why it is necessary to study and undergo training. However, those who have a high school diploma can apply directly to a cardiologist's office and take on the job training which can last from six to eight weeks. But for those who want to advance their career as an EKG technician, they can opt for a one year certificate course or a two year associate's degree. By studying, you will learn much more than 8 weeks on the job and can also eventually demand better pay.

The salary scale of an EKG technician varies greatly, and depends on many factors such as location, education, and experience. The starting salary is around $22,000 a year on the lower bracket, while there are also those who can earn as much as $30,000 a year. Those who have bachelor's degrees can even expect to be paid as much as $35,000 - 50,000 a year eventually, which shows that education is one of the most important factors in an EKG tech career. It is estimated by the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics that the demand for EKG techs will continue to grow 24% until 2018.

Common work environments for an EKG technician includes hospitals, cardiac rehabilitation clinics, and other cardiologist doctors clinics. EKG techs can choose to work in a number of different healthcare settings, but no matter which you choose it is always a good profession to become an EKG tech as it is highly fulfilling. Though the work pressures require that EKG techs remain calm and can make the right decisions, at the end of the day they work hard to save peoples' lives.

EKG technicians commonly work for 40 hours a week, 8 hours a day though it is not uncommon to work for up to 12 hours a day depending on how busy the clinic is. Most of the day, it is required that EKG technicians be standing up or walking as this is the nature of their job. This is why it helps to be physically fit if you want to be an EKG technician.

An EKG technician's career is very rewarding, and will also compensate well. The lives of patients are dependent on their skills with an electrocardiogram machine and the interpretation of results. For those who enjoy working in fast-paced medical environments and helping people, a career as an EKG technician may be right for you.




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1 comment:

  1. Salary, schooling, job description and demand are some important aspects to consider before making a career choice. http://techniciansalary.net/ekg-technician-salary/

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