Lesson 1: Introduction: EKG Technician Chapter 1: Roles and Responsibilities of the EKG Technician

EKG or Electrocardiography

is the process by which a graphic pattern is created from the electrical impulses generated within the heart as it pumps; often performed as part of a general examination, It may also be performed to evaluate different heart abnormalities, heart disease or symptoms, or to detect abnormal heart rhythms, can also be used to evaluate a patient’s progress after a heart attack or to check the effectiveness of medications.

EKG Technician

performs routine clinical procedures that the health care provider then uses to diagnose and treat many cardiovascular diseases and disorders.

scope of practice

defines the duties that the EKG technician has been trained to do and is legally allowed to perform;

duties of EKg Tech

• responsible for performing tasks related to the administration of EKG exams

• obtaining a good EKG reading on patients

• checks the electrical activity of the patient’s heart to look for abnormalities, causes of heart disease, and heart attack symptoms

• collaborate with doctors on the test results, assist with administrative tasks, and adhere to ethical and compliance responsibilities

• Maintaining the EKG equipment

• Preparing patients for Holter monitoring

• Reporting findings to the physician

• Obtaining patient vital signs

• Educating the patient throughout the EKG process

• Capturing test results using electronic medical records or electronic health records (EMR or EHR)

chain of command

a structure that identifies who each team member reports to regarding their job assignments, duties, and for any questions or concerns