EKG Ch 1

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to the role of the EKG technician, including definitions, descriptions, and professional standards necessary for understanding this healthcare position.

EKG

Stands for electrocardiogram, a test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

Electrocardiogram

A quick, painless test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

Cardiologist

A doctor who specializes in the health of the heart.

Ambulatory care

A healthcare setting where medical care is given without the patient being admitted to a hospital.

Inpatient treatment

Healthcare provided when a patient is admitted to a hospital.

Acute care

Type of medical care provided for patients with severe health issues.

Myocardial infarction (MI)

Medical term for a heart attack.

Holter monitor

A type of ambulatory EKG that records the heart's rhythm over a prolonged period.

EKG technician

A healthcare worker who performs or assists with EKG tests.

Soft skills

Personal traits that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with others.

Constructive feedback

Helpful criticism aimed at improving an employee's performance.

Professional appearance

The standard of dress and grooming expected in a healthcare environment.

Attention to detail

The ability to notice and focus on important information.

Communication skills

Skills that allow an individual to convey information effectively.

Cultural diversity

The coexistence of different cultural groups within a society.

Compassion

A genuine concern for the well-being of others.

Integrity

Quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.

Problem-solving ability

The capacity to find solutions to difficult or complex issues.

Timeliness

The ability to complete tasks on time.

HIPAA

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, law protecting patient health information.

Protected Health Information (PHI)

Any information about health status, healthcare provision, or payment for healthcare that can be linked to an individual.

Snooping

Viewing a patient's medical record without a valid reason, which is a violation of patient confidentiality.

Continuing education

Learning activities that professionals engage in to maintain and enhance their skills and knowledge.

Certifying agency

An organization that provides certification for various healthcare roles.

NHA

National Healthcareer Association, one of the organizations certifying EKG technicians.

CEU

Continuing education unit, a measure used for continuing education.

BLS certification

Basic Life Support certification, often required for healthcare workers.

Chain of command

The line of authority in an organization.

Medical director

A physician responsible for overseeing medical services.

Documentation

The act of recording patient care and other relevant information.

CPT

Current Procedural Terminology, a set of codes used to report medical procedures.

Medical terminology

Specific language used by healthcare professionals to describe body parts, conditions, and treatments.

CNA

Certified Nursing Assistant, a healthcare profession requiring certification.

RN

Registered Nurse, a licensed healthcare professional.

PCT

Patient Care Technician, a healthcare worker providing care under supervision.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

A trained professional who provides emergency medical services.

Nonverbal communication

Communication without words, such as body language.

Problem-solving skills

Skills that involve finding solutions to challenges.

Emotional intelligence

The ability to understand and manage emotions in oneself and others.

Job description

A formal account of an employee's responsibilities.

Facility policy

Official guidelines that outline how an organization operates.

Patient safety

Processes and conditions that prevent harm to patients in healthcare.

Health information technology

Use of information technology in healthcare to manage health information.