EKG Technician Programs in Seattle, Washington

Becoming an EKG Technician in Seattle, Washington

If you’re considering a rewarding career in the healthcare field, becoming an EKG Technician in Seattle, Washington, could be the perfect choice. EKG Technicians, also known as Electrocardiograph Technicians or Cardiovascular Technicians, play a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring heart conditions by conducting electrocardiograms (EKGs). This guide will explain what it takes to enter this growing field, highlighting local training programs, prerequisites, certification requirements, and employment opportunities in Seattle.

About Seattle

Seattle is a dynamic city in Washington State, known for its iconic Space Needle, thriving tech industry, and breathtaking natural surroundings, including Puget Sound and Mount Rainier. Home to diverse neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill, Ballard, and South Lake Union, Seattle offers an array of educational and career opportunities. For more on this Pacific Northwest city, visit the official Seattle website.

EKG Technician Training Programs in Seattle, Washington

To become an EKG Technician, formal training is typically required. Luckily, Seattle offers several options for EKG Technician training programs:

1. Seattle Central College
   Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Seattle Central College provides healthcare-related certificate programs that may include EKG Technician courses. The college focuses on providing hands-on training and practical knowledge to prepare students for certification exams. Visit Seattle Central College for program details.

2. Pima Medical Institute – Seattle
   Pima Medical Institute, located near Northgate, offers comprehensive allied health training. Although primarily known for its medical assistant program, the institute often includes electrocardiography as part of its coursework. Learn more at Pima Medical Institute.

3. Edmonds College
   Just north of Seattle in Lynnwood (approximately 18 miles from downtown), Edmonds College provides healthcare certification opportunities that include EKG Technician training. The curriculum focuses on anatomy, medical terminology, and clinical competency. Find out more about the programs at Edmonds College.

For those outside Seattle or seeking online options, Pacific Union College and Collins-CC offer flexible online EKG Technician courses (detailed under online certifications below).

EKG Technician Employment Opportunities in Seattle

Seattle is home to many renowned hospitals and healthcare facilities, providing ample employment prospects for certified EKG Technicians:

1. University of Washington Medical Center
   Located in the University District, this leading research hospital is known for its cutting-edge cardiology department and offers career opportunities for EKG Technicians and other allied health professionals. Explore their current openings at UW Medical Center Careers.

2. Virginia Mason Medical Center
   Situated in the First Hill neighborhood, Virginia Mason is a respected hospital system with a strong focus on cardiac care. Visit their career page to view job opportunities at Virginia Mason Careers.

3. Swedish Medical Center
   With multiple campuses, including the First Hill and Cherry Hill locations, Swedish Medical Center is one of Seattle’s largest healthcare providers and a prominent employer for EKG Technicians. Check for openings at Swedish Careers.

Prerequisites for EKG Technician Programs

Before enrolling in an EKG Technician training program in Seattle, you’ll typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Education Requirements: A high school diploma or GED is required.
• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Background Check: A clean criminal background check is mandatory for most programs.
• Health Requirements: Training programs may require negative hepatitis and TB tests, as well as up-to-date immunization records.
• Entrance Exams: Some schools may require applicants to pass basic aptitude tests.

EKG Technician Certification Requirements

EKG Technicians in Washington State must obtain certification to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. Key certification requirements include:

• Training Completion: Enroll in a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or a similar organization.
• Certification Exams: Choose one of the following:
  • ASPT – Electrocardiograph (EKG) Technician exam
  • NHA Certified EKG Technician exam
  • American Society of EKG Technicians (ASET) certification exam
• Practical Experience: Complete at least 10 EKGs on live patients as part of your program.
• Certification Renewal: EKG certifications must be renewed regularly by completing continuing education hours.

For more information, visit the official websites of these certifying organizations:

• National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
• American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT)

Online Certifications

If attending an on-campus program is challenging, consider online certification options. Institutions like Pacific Union College and Collins-CC provide online EKG Technician training, allowing you to achieve certification through flexible, virtual programs. Upon completion, students may take exams by AECA or NHA to become a Certified EKG Technician.

Get Started Today

A career as an EKG Technician in Seattle, Washington, is both attainable and rewarding. With various education and certification options, Seattle is an excellent place to start your journey. Take the first step by exploring local schools and reaching out to learn more about their programs. Begin today by contacting a school and pursuing your dream of making a difference in the healthcare industry.