If you want to become an electrocardiograph technician, then you will need a high school diploma or its equivalent and technical training. On-the-job training is available for those who are already working in the medical field. Certificate programs can help you get the experience you need if you are not already a medical professional. Many employers, such as hospitals and doctors' offices, require certification before you are eligible for employment. You also should be prepared for the possibility of long hours and stressful situations.
Most people who become an electrocardiograph technician are working in the medical field in positions such as nursing aides. Electrocardiograph technician training normally lasts from four to six weeks. Holter monitoring, which involves monitoring patients' hearts for 24 hours, usually requires from 18 to 24 months of training. If you have on-the-job training, then you will usually be taught by a cardiologist or electrocardiograph (ECG) supervisor. This type of training will allow you to become certified, after which you will be able to learn how to handle emergencies or patients first-hand.
Certificate programs are available that will provide classroom study on topics such as medical terminology and electrocardiography. You also will receive hands-on training when participating in a certificate program to ensure that you will be able to fulfill your duties as an electrocardiograph technician. These programs normally last around a year. Skills in communication, following directions and dealing with patients are all included in programs for those who want to become an electrocardiograph technician.
Many certificate programs can prepare you for certification through organizations such as the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT), which offers certification as an electrocardiograph technician. Another organization through which you can be certified is the American Certification Agency for Healthcare Professionals. Certification is an optional but standard practice, because most employers ask for certification. Cardiac rehabilitation centers, emergency rooms and cardiology clinics are examples of employers that normally require certification.
To become an electrocardiograph technician, you have to be prepared to work in shifts. Depending on where you work, you may work no more than 40 hours a week during standard business hours, while other places may require you to work 12-hour shifts or overtime or be on call. You also should be able to hand stressful situations, because some patients may have serious health problems. It also is important to be able to listen to patients' worries and help them relax while maintaining your professionalism.
