EKG Technician Training at Lamson
Many have heard the acronym EKG, but few actually know what it means. EKC, or ECG, is short for electrocardiogram which is a procedure to test and record the electrical activity of the heart. An EKG tech prepares patients for their EKG’s, as well as perform the actual tests themselves, and interpret the results in order to discover any abnormalities of the patient’s heart. The purpose of an EKG test is to determine if a patient has heart disease. To become certified, ekg technician training starts at Lamson Institute where it takes less than a year, and students are required to complete 160 hours in an externship program in order to gain experience in the field.
An EKG tech performs an essential task in monitoring the critical health of patients in a medical office setting. Technicians prepare patients for the test by shaving required areas in order to cleanly connect up to 15 electrodes, or small disks. The electrodes are placed in specific areas, with 6 usually placed across the chest, and one on each limb. These electrodes pick up even the smallest amount of electrical activity, and can determine if various functions of the heart are not functioning properly. EKG’s are used to detect heart defects, irregularities with heart rhythm, narrowed or blocked arteries in the heart, heart valve problems, and even previous heart attacks.
Though this procedure may seem very extensive, it is painless except for removing the electrodes, which often feel like peeling off a Band-Aid. A standard EKG takes only a few minutes, and the results are available instantly, as the information is recorded as it is gathered, much like the results of a polygraph test. There is no reason for healthy individuals to have yearly or regular EKG tests. If an EKG tech discovers any abnormalities during an EKG test, it could mean that there is damage to the heart, a change in the electrolyte level in the blood, a congenital heart defect, enlargement of the heart, fluid or swelling in the sack around the heart, inflammation of the heart itself, or poor blood supply.
At Lamson, EKG technician training is the fast-track to a valuable career in the field of medicine. Technicians perform EKG’s in many medical office settings and are important pieces to any medical team. After graduation, students will be prepared for the national certification test, after which they can enter the workforce and be a sought-after commodity. Your medical career could begin today with EKG technician training at Lamson when you enroll in our Lab Assistant, EKG Technician/Phlebotomist course.
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