Electrocardiogram (EKG) technicians use technology such as EKG monitors and ultrasound machines to assist physicians in the invasive or noninvasive diagnosis and treatment of heart ailments. Many EKG programs can include hands-on training in a clinical environment, which at one time made online training rare; however, online EKG technician degrees are now made available by some colleges and universities. Explore three such programs in this article.
Online EKG Technician Program Overview
Through interactive online content, it is possible to acquire EKG technician training without attending an on-campus program. Videos, simulations and online support are ways in which students can learn how to operate and maintain EKG equipment. Online training generally leads to a diploma or certificate. Below are three schools that offer online programs in electrocardiogram technology.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutElectrocardiogramTechnicianSchools">Important Facts About Electrocardiogram Technician Schools</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td> Programs </td><td> Available through the NAHCE College of Allied Health</td></tr>
<tr><td> Degree Levels </td><td> Associate's and bachelor's degrees available</td></tr>
<tr><td> Prerequisites </td><td> High school diploma, or equivalent</td></tr>
<tr><td> Continuing Education </td><td> Voluntary; certification available through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and Cardiovascular Credentialing International</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021)</td><td> $60,570 (<i>for all cardiovascular technologists and technicians</i>)</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Growth (2021-2031)</td><td> 5% (<i>for all cardiovascular technologists and technicians</i>)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---SanFranciscoStateUniversity">San Francisco State University</h3><p>San Francisco State University has replaced its on-campus EKG Technician Professional Development Certificate with a fully online program. It is offered through the university's College of Extended Studies. Course topics include heart and chest anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, patient care, EKG technician roles and medical ethics. Students will also learn the basics of how an EKG machine functions. Other coursework focusing on <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Invasive_Cardiovascular_Technology_Associates_Degree.html">cardiovascular technology</a> teaches students how to:
</p><ul><li>Operate 12-lead EKG tracings
</li><li>Identify heart rhythms
</li><li>Read waves and measurements
</li><li>Conduct EKG strip analysis
</li><li>Identify possible disease states in the cardiovascular system
</li></ul><h3 id="section---SanDiegoStateUniversity">San Diego State University</h3><p>A 50-hour EKG Technician Certificate program is conducted online through San Diego State University's College of Extended Studies. The program is designed to prepare students to take the EKG technician certification exam administered by the American Society of Phlebotomy Technician (ASPT). Students will learn how to prepare patients to receive an EKG and how to interpret regular and irregular rhythms and wave forms. Course topics include:
</p><ul><li>12-lead placement
</li><li>Echocardiography
</li><li>Cardiac cycle
</li><li>EKG department functions</li></ul>
