EKG Techn

Description: JOB DESCRIPTION: Produces recordings of electromotive variations in a patient's heart muscle using an electrocardiogram (EKG) to provide data for the diagnosis of heart ailments. Clearly explains testing procedures to patients and answers their questions. Accurately fastens electrode leads to the patient's chest, arms, and legs. Moves electrodes along specified areas of the chest to produce electrocardiograms to record electromotive variation occurring in different areas of heart muscle. Monitors electrocardiogram for abnormal patterns. Checks with patient and patient record for any allergies to adhesive material in the electrodes. Checks skin following electrocardiograph for any areas of excessive redness and inform nurse practitioner or physician. May attach electrodes of a Holter monitor to patients to record data over an extended period of time. Prepares patient and assists with performance of exercise tolerance tests. Prepares area of lower or upper extremity for ergometry test or standard treadmill test. Removes electrodes; reviews electrocardiogram for technical acceptability and rate; delivers confirmed electrocardiograms to the clinic chart for review and signature of physician or nurse practitioner. Performs signal averaged EKG's and attaches holter monitor electrodes. Assists nurse (and/or nurse practitioner) with patient/clinic preparation including demographic information, weight and other chart preparation, most recent lab work/test results, possible measurement of pulse and/or blood pressure once competency demonstrated. Answers telephones and greets visitors according to departmental procedures; screens calls and takes messages or refers caller to appropriate staff member. Greets visitors in a courteous manner, establishes needs and refers to appropriate staff. Assists with scheduling patient appointments, diagnostic tests, admissions, surgeries, and/or proper referrals. Receives and reviews incoming correspondence; independently responds to routine matters according to instructions and standard procedures. Prepares charts prior to office visit per clinic policy; prepares documents and materials for clinic and/or patient admissions, as requested. Obtains precertification of echocardiogram as needed, checks validity of patient demographic information. Assists with set up of and maintenance of office files including patient records, reports and correspondence and miscellaneous information. Files electrocardiograms of current patients. Keys patient information, including symptoms, date, time, and initials of the person-performing test, into electrocardiograph management system and marks tracings to indicate positions of chest electrodes. Edits and forwards final test results to the patient's attending physician for analysis and interpretation. Processes in-patient and out-patient electrocardiogram charges and charge sheets including transmission to EKG laboratory, physician evaluation, and hard copy delivery for billing per clinic policy. Copies and files echocardiogram charge sheets in appropriate binder. Operates standard office equipment including telephones, copiers, fax machines, and computers. Inventories, orders, and maintains office supplies and forms; completes purchase requisitions and receives supplies. Operates electrocardiograph equipment to record the electromotive variations in heart muscle actions. Sets up and runs holter monitor, blood pressure monitor, signal average and event monitors, scan blood pressure monitor and signal averages. Cleans, adjusts and performs routine maintenance on equipment including paper and ink supplies to ensure proper functioning. Makes sure inspection sticker is up to date. Maintains inventory on sample medications; disposes of outdated medication per clinic policy. Observes safety precautions for patient and staff around exercise testing equipment. Performs related responsibilities as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A high school diploma or equivalent. Six months related experience and/or training. Typing skills. Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification in accordance with the American Heart Association is required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (Medium): 20-50 lbs; 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs, 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 50 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock, Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation, Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.