The Role of the EKG Technician Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing key terms, definitions, and concepts related to the role and responsibilities of an EKG technician.

EKG (Electrocardiogram)

A diagnostic test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

Ambulatory Care

A healthcare setting involving routine, scheduled care provided to patients without requiring overnight admission to a facility.

Myocardial Infarction

The medical term for a heart attack.

Scope of Practice

The duties and procedures that an EKG technician or healthcare worker is legally allowed to perform.

Social History

A record of a patient's lifestyle habits, such as smoking, drinking, and exercise habits.

Soft Skills

Personal traits and interpersonal qualities important to employers, such as reliable attendance and effective communication.

Hard Skills

Specific technical measurements and procedures, such as taking blood pressure and other vital signs.

Constructive Feedback

Giving opinions about a person's work along with helpful suggestions for improvement and positive change.

Integrity

The quality of being honest and maintaining strong moral principles.

Code of Ethics

A set of guidelines describing what a facility considers morally right or wrong behavior on the job.

In-service Education

Another term for continuing education provided to healthcare professionals during their employment.

CEU (Continuing Education Unit)

A measure used to track requirements for recertification and continuing education for healthcare workers.

CVA (Cerebrovascular Accident)

The medical abbreviation for a stroke.

Chain of Command

The official line of authority and supervisory reporting structure within a healthcare facility.

Policy

A designated course of action that should be taken every time a specific situation occurs.

Procedure

A specific set of sequential steps used to perform a task.

Confidentiality

The legal and ethical principle of keeping patient health information private.

Liability

A legal term meaning a person can be held legally responsible for their actions if they cause harm to someone.

The Joint Commission

An independent, nonprofit organization that evaluates and accredits healthcare facilities.

American Heart Association

An organization that conducts research and sets the official standards of treatment for Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).