Are you looking to start a new career in a field you enjoy?
Then, perhaps becoming an EKG tech is the right path to follow.
So, read on for some info on how you can start your new career in healthcare.
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EKG Tech Job Description and Duties in Washington
In Washington, an EKG technician assists doctors to properly diagnose any illnesses related to the heart and blood.
Your job tasks will be diverse depending on your workplace, but include:
- Evaluating a patient and explaining procedures
- Verify patients identity
- Performing EKG
- Point of care testing
- Preparing test results for the doctor
- Maintaining your area and equipment
EKG Tech Job Requirements in Washington
In Washington, you can apply for an EKG job without a certification.
But, keep in mind that certification is required by employers.
You will also have an increased number of job opportunities with a certification.
You will have to send a bunch of documents first:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Be healthy
- Be detail-oriented
- Have good communication skills
- Have an EKG technician certification
EKG Technician Education in Washington
If you are looking to get certified, you should first join a training program.
EKG training programs only last for 4 months, during which you will get to develop your job skills.
After the program completes, you will receive a diploma.
In this state, you are not required to meet the criteria to join a program.
But, many schools have some requirements, which usually include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Over The Age Of 18
- Clean Background Check (No Felonies)
- Negative Hepatitis Test
- Negative TB Test
- Immunization Records
Some schools might accept students that are 16 years old, however, this has to be checked with the school.
The training programs for EKG techs combine hours or theory with hours of practice.
Some of the classes are:
- Heart anatomy
- Medical disease processes
- Medical terminology
- Electrocardiography
- Echocardiography
- Ethics
- Anatomy of the chest wall for proper lead placement
- Pacemakers
The schools with EKG training programs in this state are listed below.
Top 6 Schools in Washington
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Charter College | 17200 Southeast Mill Plain Boulevard #100 Vancouver, WA 98683 |
| Clover Park Technical College | 4500 Steilacoom Boulevard Southwest Lakewood, WA 98499 |
| Edmonds Community College | 20000 68th Ave W, Lynnwood, WA 98036 |
| Everett Community College | 2000 Tower Street Everett, WA 98201 |
| Swedish Medical Group | 600 University Street # 1200 Seattle, WA 98101 |
| Overlake Medical Center | 1035 116th Avenue Northeast Bellevue, WA 98004 |
EKG Technician Certification in Washington
Passing an exam is required after you completed your training program.
You will be able to choose one from 3 different exams.
Some of the exams for future EKG techs in Washington are:
- ASPT – Electrocardiograph (EKG) Technician exam
- NHA Certified EKG Technician exam
- ASET
Another requirement is submitting some documents.
Some of these can include your diploma as well as official transcripts from your school.
In case you didn’t attend a training program, you need a year of experience in the last 3 years.
After you get the EKG certification, you can start applying to jobs.
You will also have to get your certification renewed if you want to keep practicing.
You can do that by attending some extra hours of education.
EKG Technician Employment and Salary in Washington
You will be able to find your first job in any healthcare facility, including:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Physician’s offices
- Various other healthcare facilities
Get ready for a demanding work schedule if you get a job in one of the available hospitals.
You will probably have to work on weekends and also take the night shifts.
Your annual salary will be better if you are working in a big city and have some years of experience.
An EKG tech job also pays more if you have credentials.
Have a look at the EKG tech salaries in the 10 biggest cities of Washington in the table below.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of EKG Technicians in Washington
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Seattle | $42,900 |
| Spokane | $37,900 |
| Tacoma | $41,600 |
| Vancouver | $40,700 |
| Bellevue | $42,900 |
| Kent | $41,600 |
| Everett | $42,000 |
| Renton | $42,900 |
| Federal Way | $41,600 |
| Yakima | $38,900 |
Regional Salary in Washington
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | 380 | $85,810 | $41.25 | $125,510 | $51,490 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley, WA | 80 | $78,760 | $37.86 | $107,250 | $48,780 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Additional Information for EKG Technicians in Washington
Some EKG techs apply for the ASET certification, which costs $150.
The price includes:
- Full study guide
- Unlimited practice exams,
- 3 final certification exam attempts
- A professional resume revision
Certified EKG Instructor (CEI)
You can also become a Certified EKG Instructor (CEIs) through the American Society of EKG Technicians.
This certification requires an experience of a minimum of 5 years as well as a background check.
Remember that the most important aspect in finding a good job is to attend a training course.
After you get certified, you can start working in a facility you have always wanted.
